Ballarat Falcons will step out on Sunday for its first-ever playoff game when it takes on Western Crusaders.
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The Crusaders were once again a dominant force in Gridiron Victoria’s men’s division one competition, going through the season undefeated – just as it did last year on its way to winning the Vic Bowl.
The playoffs format sees first play eighth, second play seventh, and so on, meaning the eighth-placed Ballarat is in for a tall order in the elimination final.
Falcons president Casey Marin said there was no doubt the club was underdogs, but said the group would embrace the challenge in what will be a landmark day for the growing club.
“We’re definitely the underdogs here,” Marin told The Courier.
“We’re just stoked to have even made the playoffs.
“This is our first-ever playoff game in the club’s history.
“Win, lose or draw it’s a historic day for us – so it’s exciting.
“We were predicted to win one game this season…moving into one division and making the playoffs (is an amazing effort).
“We were not expecting to have as good of a season as we have.
“They’ve got a number of experienced players.
“The Crusaders are definitely favoured, and rightfully so, but the guys are so dedicated and they’ll give it their all.”
Marin said the Crusaders team was littered with state representatives, had a plethora of coaching experience on the sidelines and boasted an elite passing game.
The match will be held at Henry Turner Reserve on Sunday, 2pm.