Collegians v De La Salle – Premier B Men’s Grand Final Preview

Collegians v De La Salle

Premier B Men’s Grand Final

Sunday 20^th September, 2:30 @ Trevor Barker Beach Oval

One of the most competitive divisions across the entire VAFA reaches its crescendo on Sunday, with Collegians and De La Salle to play off in the Premier B Men’s Grand Final at Trevor Barker Beach Oval.

Having finished 1^st and 2^nd on the ladder respectively, they have proven themselves to be the two best teams in the division and have secured promotion into Premier Men’s after both being relegated last season.

Despite this, the Lions hold a strong recent record over De La, defeating them by 27 points in Round 1, 38 points in Round 10, before winning by 52 points in the Second Semi Final two weeks ago.

However, De La coach Nick Hyland said despite the recent form line, he is confident of a good showing in this weekend’s decider.

“There were a lot of positives to take away despite a heavy loss (in the Second Semi-Final),” Hyland said.

“I thought the way we got ourselves back in the game gave us great belief.

“We’re excited by the challenge ahead, and we know our best footy is certainly good enough. We’re quietly confident.”

Speaking on the VAFA’s official podcast For The Love of the Game, Collegians coach Jordie McKenzie said he is aware of their strengths, and his team will need to be ready for that.

“They’re a good side that will make you pay if you’re a bit off the mark in any amount,” McKenzie said.

“Every time we’ve played them this year, they’ve been able to pile on a few unanswered goals for different reasons.

“Our big focus will be on doing the simple things well as always, and I think that goes to another level when it gets to finals.

“Ultimately, we’ll focus on bringing our strengths to the table and hopefully putting some scoreboard pressure on them early.”