Prahran prevail in hail to lift the cup

On a day that featured everything from hail and rain to sunshine, Prahran demonstrated once again why they have been the best team all season. With Craige Milward taking the reins as Prahran coach this year, his side has been unstoppable since round six, winning 14 consecutive games to ultimately be crowned Division 1 Premiers.

In a Grand Final showdown between two heavyweights of the competition, Prahran defeated Parkside by 14 points at Martin Reserve 5.6 (36) to 2.10 (22). The first term saw Prahran acclimatise to the conditions better — with their pressure forcing Devils defenders to retreat. Both forward lines were emptied out, as Shaun Chapman proved too quick for Max Balassone in a foot race to kick the first of the game.

Luke Caldwell showed great composure across the half back line for the Devils — but once Matt Clifford soccered one through on the goal line, Prahran were off to the perfect start. At quarter time, Devils coach Rick Frost spoke to his players about the importance of taking risks to win the big games, as they trailed by 13 points.

A head knock to Corey Mckay left the Devils without one of their in-form midfielders early in the second quarter, as it turned into an arm-wrestle. The inside 50 battle was comfortably won by the Devils, 11 to four — but Prahran were able to finish their opportunities, with Ethan Plaza showing great maturity, slotting one straight over the goal umpire’s hat. With all the territory dominance, the Devils were still goalless, as Prahran defenders Joel Hume and Patrick Ribbands showed their ability to play fantastic one-on-one football.

Only being 16 points behind at the main break, it gave the Devils plenty of confidence they could turn it around in the premiership quarter. Hail and manic pressure made it tough for both sides to be clean in the contest — but some repeat entries gave Benedict Douglas the first for the Devils. All of a sudden, the margin was within 10 points and the Devils supporter base, who braved it out in tough conditions could sense it was game on.

At three-quarter time, the margin was as narrow as eight points — but Prahran coach Craige Milward was still confident, telling his group to take the energy away from the game and to give teammates better quality entries inside 50. Moving Shaun Chapman in the ruck for the opening centre bounce and Captain Rory Brodie forward was an inspired decision, as the ruck-duo once again showed how hard they are to match up on. A holding the man free kick given in the ruck gave Shaun Chapman the chance to end the game, and he did.

Shaun Chapman’s work rate, versatility and strength has been an integral part to Prahran’s side all season — earning the honours of best on ground, kicking three goals.

“You put your heart and soul into footy for most of your life, and to play in these sorts of games and to get this award is breathtaking,” Prahran’s Shaun Chapman said.

The Devils didn’t get the result they were after — but earning promotion in three consecutive seasons is a monumental effort.

“It’s hard to find a club that goes about it the right way week in week out … that’s why l call this joint home, and that’s why you guys call this joint home,” Devils captain Michael Romano said.

After a dominant display in Division 1, both Parkside and Prahran will be promoted to Premier C for season 2025.

2.3   3.3   3.4   5.6   (36)

0.2   0.5   1.8   2.10   (22)