SOUTHERN Mallee Giants have capped off an incredible season with premiership glory over Harrow-Balmoral on Saturday.
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The Giants were in control for a large majority of the contest, they won 11.7 (73) to 8.13 (61).
The grand final match was played out at the Horsham City Oval.
The Giants got off to a rocketing start, kicking accurately to lead the Southern Roos by 11 points after the first quarter.
This marks the second year in a row the Giants have won the premiership, the silverware returns to the north.
They remained undefeated for two seasons, leaving their mark on the Horsham District league.
By the half way point the Giants looked in control, moving the ball smoothly and confidently into their forward 50.
The back six of the Giants was notably impressive, limiting the Southern Roos chances of comfortable shooting positions.
Coleman Schache changed the game early on, swinging it into the Giants hands.
Schache kicked three early, important goals, he was the Giants top goalscorer on the day.
The Southern Roos gave themselves a huge hill to climb in the second half and although they clawed their way back into the contest in the final quarter, they were unable to get over the line.
They scored more in the final quarter – 5.6 (36) – than they did for the opening three quarters – 3.7 (25).
Scott Heath was a standout player for the Southern Roos, kicking an important goal in the second half to get his boys rolling.
The Giants did a good job keeping Southern Roos star midfielders, Nick Pekin and Eric Guthrie quiet.
Giants coach Shaun Monohan said it felt a little stressful in the final quarter.
“Harrow are always going to come, they’re a good side, we were out on our feet and the boys hung on. I was very grateful,” he said.
Monohan had strong faith in his side and at the three quarter time huddle, he told his troops if they play like they have been all year they will come away with the win.
“I told them to give lots of pressure around the footy, they’ve got some good runners like Guthrie and Pekin,” he said. “They were still handy but if you can nullify them that can help us, the boys did that and they deserve everything they get.”