The Ararat Storm have given themselves the best chance of defending their premiership after a round 14 44-point win against Carisbrook ensured the team finished the regular season at the top of the ladder on Sunday.
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The Storm started the game with ferocity and gained an early lead in the first term.
The reigning premiers went into the first break with a 15-point lead after keeping the Lions scoreless.
The second term was a higher scoring quarter with the Storm getting more reward for their effort.
The home team extended its lead out to 24 points by half time and looked in control of the game.
The Storm continued to create chances in front of goal after half time with another two-goal term while the Lions could manage one behind.
The Lions went into the final break trailing by six goals and needed something special to get over the line.
The ladder leaders kicked two goals in the final term to ensure they got the points and remained at the top of the ladder.
Ella Wood continued her strong season with a best on ground performance while Meg Wik slotted three goals to top the goal tally.
The victory gave the Storm the minor premiership, due to a higher percentage than the Ballarat Swans.
The Storm will now have a week off and go straight into second semi-final and face the winner of the Ballarat Swans and Lakers match.