SKOB into Grand Final in 2015, William Buck Premier in 2016

St Kevin’s Old Boys will re-enter William Buck Premier for the first time in 10 years after they defeated St Bedes/Mentone Tigers by 16 points at Sportscover Arena. It was a hot start for SKOB as they sent through five of the first eight goals of the match. Maintaining a solid – but far from match-winning lead – for the first three quarters, SKOB felt the heat of a determined Tigers outfit early in the fourth when they brought the margin to within a goal. However, with both Jason and Steven Salopek leading from the front, and Stephen Gilham going to work, SKOB were able to hold off the Tigers until the final siren. Luke Velluto proved he can kick them when it counts for the Tigers as the league’s second-highest goal kicker top scored with four majors for the match. It’s a fantastic story for SKOB, who have been regular finals participants in recent years but have been unable to secure the promotion until now.

All is not lost for St Bedes/Mentone Tigers, who will now face Old Melburnians after the Redlegs ran over the top of Old Brighton by 36 points at Trevor Barker Oval. Trailing the Tonners by eight points at the first break, the Redlegs gained some momentum in the second with five goals to two, before a dominant second half of seven majors to two helped them run away with the lead and into next week’s preliminary final. Alexander Armstrong starred for the Redlegs as he equalled his season-high with six goals to help lead his side one step closer to William Buck Premier. While the Tonners will feel the disappointment of a lost elimination final, they should be proud with what they’ve achieved this season after securing a top four berth with 10 wins from their 18 matches.