The Aspley Hornets will host the Sydney Swans in the 2014 NEAFL Grand Final next Saturday at Graham Road after defeating the UWS GIANTS by 45 points at Blacktown International Sports Park.
After trailing at quarter time by five points in an incredibly high-scoring opening term, Aspley kicked 10 of the final 13 goals in the game to record an impressive 16.16 (112) to 10.7 (67) win.
The GIANTS finished the season as minor premiers but due to the quirks of the NEAFL draw, they were yet to face the Hornets in 2014.
The unfamiliarity between the two sides may have led to the helter skelter opening term which saw the teams kick 13 goals between them.
However, it was Aspley who settled better over the remainder of the match as they increased their lead at every change to record a sensational victory.
NEAFL MVP Matthew Payne (32 disposals, five clearances) produced arguably his finest individual performance of the season as he kicked four goals in another vintage display which has typified his season.
Aspley’s 2013 best and fairest Ryan Matthews (31 disposals, nine clearances) also continued his rich vein of form, while Jack Stanley (24 disposals, 11 inside fifties, eight marks) provided a terrific outlet across half-forward as he finished with two goals.
The win sets up a home meeting against the Sydney Swans, who defeated the NT Thunder by 62 points in the other preliminary final to book their spot in the decider.
Although Sydney finished the season as the higher ranked team, Aspley have been granted the right to host the Grand Final, which will take place next Saturday at 1:30pm.
For those who are unable to make it to Graham Road, the game will also be streamed live via the NEAFL website.
