UPDATE: The Darley Devils have clinched their second Ballarat Football League premiership in just three years with a commanding victory over the Sunbury Lions on Saturday. The final score of 11.13 (79) to 6.9 (45) at City Oval solidifies their dominance this season.
This grand final was a showcase of the Devils’ superiority, especially during the first quarter, where they raced to a staggering 47-0 lead. Darley coach Dan Jordan expressed immense pride in his team, stating, “I thought they had worked themselves into a position to be the best team all year.” The energy and focus displayed by the Devils set the tone early, effectively sealing the game before halftime.
While the Lions fought valiantly, the gap proved insurmountable. Jordan noted, “The danger is you can get to the grand final and if you don’t win it, it’s disappointing.” However, the Devils’ commitment shone through as they maintained control throughout the match.
Key players for the Devils included Mace Cousins and Nick Hind, both scoring two goals each. Hind was awarded the prestigious AFL Victoria Best on Ground Medal, marking a remarkable achievement for the player who joined the club after his AFL career. Jordan shared his excitement, saying, “It’s good to see him get the rewards on grand final day, which he’s never played on before.”
In recognition of his outstanding performance, skipper Brett Bewley received the Roy Edward Memorial Trophy, capping off an exceptional season for the team leader. Jordan emphasized the importance of building a legacy for the club, stating, “We want to have sustained success. We want our juniors coming through.”
The triumph doesn’t just belong to the senior team; it adds to Darley’s recent victories in both A-grade and B-grade netball, along with a women’s football premiership won earlier this month. The atmosphere at Darley Park is expected to be electric as the community celebrates this significant achievement.
As the final siren echoed, Jordan reflected on the journey, saying, “They’ve worked so hard.” The club aims to continue developing young talent and creating a lasting impact within the league. The party at Darley Park promises to be one for the ages as players, fans, and families come together to honor this remarkable achievement.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story and the celebrations in Darley!
