SKOB, Tonners, Bloods secure grand final berth

William Buck Premier

St Kevin’s are one step closer to claiming their first William Buck Premier flag after they booked a grand final spot with a 23-point victory over University Blues at Trevor Barker Oval. Leading by 14 points at three quarter time, SKOB ignited with six goals to four in the fourth on the back of an inspired performance from Steven Salopek. Jay Schulz top-scored with three goals while Gerard Gleeson and Lachie Sullivan continued their outstanding individual seasons with a bevy of disposals for SKOB. Tim Geappen kicked five goals for the Blues and Dale Hinkley gave his best performance for the season, but they suffered their first loss from their past 11 outings. The Blues will now face off with the winner of tomorrow’s elimination final between Collegians and De La Salle.

Premier B

Old Brighton will return to William Buck Premier for the first time since 2014 following their 23-point win over Old Scotch at Box Hill City Oval. The Tonners were in control from the outset as they kicked four unanswered goals in the first term, before keeping the Cardinals to just two despite having the bulk of the play in the second. Leading by 17 points after a heated first half, the minor premiers sent home another six goals to five in the second half to run out the game comfortable victors. Daniel Anthony and Anthony Zimmerman kicked two goals each and were named best for the Tonners, while Jack Bull starred for the Cardinals from the very first bounce and Josh Halsall kicked three. The Cardinals will now await the winner of St Bernard’s and Monash Blues ahead of next week’s preliminary.

Premier C

Old Haileybury stunned the tipsters in their second semi-final match-up with Caulfield Grammarians, running out 25-point winners at Casey Fields and securing a return to Premier B for the 2018 season. The Bloods had lost three of their past four games heading into finals but turned it on when it mattered, outscoring the minor premiers in every quarter. Ed Limon and Jack Munro led the charge for the Bloods and were named best afield, while Jack Woodman continued his strong form as the best for the Fields. The loss ended a six-game winning streak for the Fields as they now look to book a spot in the big dance against the winner of Marcellin and Williamstown CYMS.