Image by Brooke Sleep Media.
By Abby Collins
Palm Beach Currumbin roared into the next round of the QAFL finals with a commanding 39-point victory over Wilston Grange in their elimination final, showcasing their prowess and determination on the field.
The Lions, embodying their fierce spirit, dominated the match from the outset, setting a relentless pace that the Gorillas struggled to match.
The final buzzer rang out across the grounds, with the scoreboards reading 12.8 (80) to 18.11 (119) in favour of the visitors.
The clash at Hickey Park began with an electrifying start as Fred Valpied, a key player for the Lions this season, launched a spectacular goal from 45 meters out, sending a clear message of intent.
Just moments later, Ty Fitzgerald followed suit, executing a long-range kick that sailed through the posts, igniting the travelling Lions’ fans.
Blair Rubock then extended Palm Beach’s lead further, while the Gorillas found themselves grappling to penetrate the Lions’ formidable defence, led by the tenacious James Frawley, who consistently intercepted and marked the ball across half back.
Tom Hickey shined in the ruck for the outset, dominating through his height and skill.
Wilston Granges’ Jackson Mills, a powerhouse for the Gorillas, responded in kind, thwarting many of the Lions’ advances and ensuring their momentum slowed for his teammates.
As the second quarter unfolded, Palm Beach Currumbin continued their offensive onslaught, already three majors ahead after the first quarter.
Blair Rubock snapped another brilliant goal off the first bounce, quickly followed by Cory Beaman’s first major of the match.
Although Wilston Grange managed a response through Jacquin Mifsud, the Lions retaliated fiercely, with Tom Hickey, Rubock, Ben McInney, and Jackson Farrell all finding the posts before Wilston Grange could score again.
By halftime, the scoreboard reflected a staggering 43-point gap, with Palm Beach firmly in the driver’s seat.
Palm Beach Currumbin maintain their momentum after half time, kicking five goals to Wilston Grange’s three in the next term of play.
Frawley and Hickey continued to shine with their consistent ball control and marking abilities, managing to halt the Gorillas’ advances well into the third quarter.
Despite the Gorillas’ efforts to claw back into the game, the Lions’ defence, spearheaded by Frawley and Valpied, proved impenetrable, leaving Wilston Grange with little room to manoeuvre.
In the final quarter, the Gorillas displayed resilience, starting strong with a goal from Oscar Stewart.
They minimised the Lion’s scoring to just one major while managing to find the posts four times themselves.
However, their valiant efforts were not enough to overcome the significant deficit.
The final siren confirmed Palm Beach’s 39-point victory, a testament to their skill and teamwork.
This dominant display ensures that the Lions will progress to face Redland-Victoria Point in the qualifying finals.
The upcoming encounter promises to be an exhilarating showdown, as both teams are eager to continue their season and chase the ultimate prize.
With the Lions roaring into the next round, fans can expect an exciting clash as they aim to repeat their dominant performance and secure a place in the finals.
Wilston Grange 3.2 5.3 8.3 12.8 (80)
Palm Beach Currumbin 6.4 12.4 17.8 18.11 (119)
Goals
Wilston Grange Fidler 2, Manly 2, Martyn 2, Mifsud 2, Richardson 2, Farry, Stewart
Palm Beach Currumbin Rubock 4, Cilmi 3, Croad 3, Beaman 2, O’Brien 2, Fitzgerald, Hickey, McInney, Sekac
Best Players
Wilston Grange Jacquin Mifsud, Tex Korewha, Hugh Fidler
Palm Beach Currumbin Thomas Thynne, Liam O’Brien, Jackson Farrell, Brad Stafford, Ted O’Brien, Jonathan Croad
