By Beth Newman
Jesse Derrick wants to add to the family trophy cabinet with a flag at Palm Beach on Saturday.
Derrick, who has played every game this season, is in his second year back at the Lions after a stint at Broadbeach, and hopes he can cap off a brilliant season with a fairy tale finish on Saturday.
Jesse will have a unique opportunity to play off for the 2013 cup with his brother, Matt.
This is the first season the two have played in a grand final since 2005 and the younger Derrick hopes they can get over the line against the minor premiers.
“We played in a grand final when we were 16 and 19 years old, so fast forward eight years and it’s going to be pretty exciting to play in a grand final and hopefully win it this time,” Derrick said.
After returning to the Lions in 2012, Derrick lured his elder brother back into the fray this season, and it’s paid dividends.
“I decided at the end of last year to try and get him back when I was back at the club and I’m just thrilled to have him back,” he said.
The Derricks are very close and Jesse said it was great to have his older brother out there with him.
“We did everything together ( growing up) – played cricket, golf, footy , soccer, the whole lot. So, we know each other out there,” he said.
Matt said the two brothers shared a competitive spirit and he can’t wait to run out in the decider alongside Jesse.
“It’ll mean everything,” he said
“We spur each other on.”
Jesse said the chance to add to the family’s strong history at the club would mean a lot to his dad, Ley, especially, who is still very much involved in the club.
“I think Dad would be the most happy (if we won),” he said.
“He’s not one of those dads who comes out and says, ‘do this and do that,’ but he just sits back.
“I think he just enjoys watching us play more than anything. “
Both Derricks have played crucial roles for the Lions through the finals series, with Jesse moving to the half-forward flank, while Matt kept Anthony Corrie quiet for most of the preliminary final.
Having gone through last year’s grand final defeat at the hands of the Magpies, Jesse said while the family connection would make a win a bit sweeter, his focus would be fixed on going one step further than 2012.
“Probably deep down it’d mean a bit but more for the team I think losing last year it’s more for the team and the club,” he said.
“The club have lost two grand finals in a row so I think it’s time we win one.”
