Gryphons return to Division 2, Warriors fight another week

Glen Eira will return to Division 2 next season after they play off for this year’s Division 3 flag, having defeated Hawthorn AFC by just one point in a thriller at Whitefriars College. Leading by 21 points at three quarter time, the Gryphons were given a scare from the Hawks as they kicked three unanswered goals in the fourth term. Ashley Carey and Matthew Harris were outstanding for the Gryphons, but unfortunately, they will be without Julius Waras-Carstensen after the 2016 Division 3 Medallist broke his arm. Richard Ogge top-scored with three goals for the Hawks, while Cameron Allum led the comeback. The Hawks will now face Westbourne Grammarians in next week’s preliminary final.

The Warriors earnt their spot in next week’s preliminary after they ran over Aquinas by 36 points at Garvey Oval. The Warriors had 21 more scoring shots than the Bloods (34-13) but were inaccurate in front of goal as they finished the game with 9.24; including, 5.11 in the fourth term. Tim Rogers and Adam Rompel were standouts for the Warriors alongside two goals from Dale Collins. Billy O’Loughlin kicked two for the Bloods and Lachlan Barnes was their best player. It was an incredible effort from the Bloods to make finals as they strung five straight wins together to leapfrog into the top four. The Warriors will now take on the Hawks next week.