QAFA (B) SOUTH
Bond University capped off a successful season, claiming the QAFA (B) South premiership, defeating Tweed Coast 15.8 (98) – 7.16 (58) and ending the Tigers’ chances of back-to-back flags.
Tweed Coast looked like causing a boilover kicking the first four goals of the match, but they only kicked three more for the day, in a game where they struggled to convert their chances.
The Bull Sharks battled hard after that goalless first term, taking the ascendency back in the second, with John Blackburn leading the way with five goals of their seven in that quarter.
Blackburn finished with seven for the day in the Bull Sharks’ ultimately comfortable premiership win, while Samual Makin chipped in as well and playing coach Sam Whish-Wilson was solid.
Blackburn’s big haul earned him the best on ground medal for the game.
Thor Hoopman was impressive for Tweed Coast, while Josh Edwards worked hard all day for the Northern Rivers side.
The result ultimately reflected the pecking order of the season, with the minor premier Sharks, who finished four wins clear on top, proving their quality in finals too.
QAFA (B) Central
The pressure of a perfect season affected the Woodsmen little as they cruised to the QAFA (B) Central flag, with a 13.11 (89) – 7.7 (49) win over Wynnum.
The undefeated Woodsmen were on top form the get go with a six goal to two first term, giving them an early advantage.
Reid Dobson was instrumental for the Woodsmen in their victory, with the Magpies stalwart taking home the best on ground medal, to go along with the premiership glory.
The Vikings never stopped fighting through the flag decider, kicking the last two goals of the first half, to keep themselves in contention, but it was simply not their night.
After a year of significant improvement, coming off a long 2013, the Vikings’ grand final berth was a true reward in itself, with the club having plenty to celebrate in its 2014 recovery.
Jay Baker booted six goals for the Woodsmen, almost half their score, in an influential performance, while Darcy McEwen was also good for the winners.
Scott Gillett was the best for the battling Vikings, while Trent Farrow had a serviceable performance as well.
QAFA (B) NORTH
Bribie Island saw off a strong challenge from Maroochydore to claim the QAFA (B) North flag, 15.10 (100) – 12.7 (79).
The Bulldogs trailed by four points at the first change, before hitting the lead with the first goal of the second quarter.
From there, they never looked back, stretching their advantage through the game.
Darcy Cody caught the attention of the judges with his performance earning him the best on ground medal, while Brad Bird booted five for Bribie Island in the win.
Jeremy Cockram kicked four goals for Maroochydore, while Steven Morris was very good for the Roos in the decider.
The grand final punctuated what has been a thrilling year in the QAFA (B) North competition with three teams – Maroochydore, Pomona and Bribie Island- all finishing on 11 wins, with only percentage separating the trio coming into the finals series.
