Dominant Preston win the Premiership – Division 1 Men’s Grand Final Review

Preston Bullants 12.9 (81) def Kew 3.11 (29)

After a dominant season, and an assertive finals campaign, Preston have won the Grand Final for Division 1 by 52 points, overrunning an inaccurate Kew side.

The Bullants took hold of the scoreboard early, kicking five goals to Kew’s one, with Benedict Douglas opening the game strong kicking the first two goals of the game.

Preston’s dominance was exemplified by their ability to score more than Kew’s eventual total within that first term.

The Bullants continued to build in the second term, although the Bears were able to restrict their scoring to two goals. Kew was able to hit the scoreboard more in the second half, but inaccuracy was a major issue, with five behinds and no goals in the final term alone.

Preston on the other hand had a swathe of goal kickers, with Nicholas Brennan, Dominic Douglas, Billy Michaelides, and vice-captain Benedict Douglas all kicking multiple goals on the afternoon.

The Bullants kept building out the margin throughout the afternoon and ended their year with 19 wins and one loss, although this week’s win will certainly mean a lot more than most.

Preston’s big victory was led by strong efforts from the Brennan brothers who combined for 56 disposals, 37 contested possessions and three goals, while Dean Calcedo did a bit of everything for his side and took out the Best on Ground Medal.

A rivalry will almost certainly be building between these two sides, both dominant in their own ways. And the rivalry will continue, with top two spots leading both sides to be promoted next year.

Hopefully both sides will continue their powerful momentum and be able to match the intensity next season.