UPDATE: In a thrilling conclusion to the BFNL Grand Final, Dylan Hanley has fulfilled his football dream by winning a senior premiership with Eaglehawk, alongside his younger brother Aydan Hanley. The match, held on October 14, 2023, saw the underdog Hawks come from behind to secure a stunning 94-84 victory over Sandhurst.
The emotional weight of this victory is profound for both players. “That’s the biggest takeaway from today… winning one with my brother,” Aydan stated, reflecting on their joint achievement. This win marks a significant turnaround for Dylan, who had contemplated retirement due to injury and health issues just a year ago.
Eaglehawk’s remarkable comeback from a 22-point deficit at three-quarter-time captivated fans at the QEO. The Hawks had faced a fierce start, with Sandhurst racing to an early lead. However, the team rallied in the final quarter, showcasing grit and determination that led to their triumph.
Dylan, wearing the number 18 jersey—just like his inspiration, uncle Ben Hynes, who captained Eaglehawk to a premiership in 2007—played a crucial role in defense, making key intercepts in the dying moments of the match. “It’s just incredible and really hard to fathom what we’ve done,” he expressed after the game, emphasizing the pride he feels for his teammates.
Both brothers were instrumental in the final moments, holding firm against Sandhurst’s aggressive attempts to regain control. Despite 11 inside-50 entries from the Dragons in the last quarter, the Eaglehawk defense, led by Dylan, limited them to just 2.1 on the scoreboard.
The victory is not just a remarkable athletic achievement; it also underscores the emotional bonds within the team. Aydan described the win as “surreal,” highlighting the unique experience of sharing this moment with his brother. “We played Eaglehawk footy today and just left it all out there,” he added.
For many players, including Tom Bennett, who earlier faced disappointment being dropped from the Strathfieldsaye team in last year’s grand final, this win is a testament to resilience and the spirit of the club. Bennett, now a proud premiership player with Eaglehawk, reflected on his journey, saying, “To be 20-odd points down coming into the last quarter and claw our way back into the game is remarkable.”
As Eaglehawk celebrates its 28th premiership, this victory is not only a milestone for the club but also a poignant reminder of the personal journeys and sacrifices made by players. The support from the community and the club’s leadership has strengthened the bonds among players, making this win even more meaningful.
Fans and supporters are already buzzing, sharing their joy on social media and expressing pride in the team’s historic comeback. The excitement surrounding this win is palpable, as the Eagles look forward to building on this success in the future.
Stay tuned as we continue to bring you the latest updates from Eaglehawk and the BFNL community following this incredible triumph.
