By Abby Collins
In a heart-pounding Elimination Final, Redland-Victoria Point triumphed over Surfers Paradise, securing their spot in the next round of the QAFL finals.
The atmosphere was electric as both teams battled fiercely, but it was the Sharks’ blend of strategy and sheer talent that ultimately shone through.
This victory not only marks a pivotal moment for the Sharks but also helps them in their relentless hunt for redemption after last year’s Grand Final disappointment.
The Sharks secured a narrow victory with a final score of 11.10 (76) to the Demons’ 8.12 (60).
The match kicked off with both teams flexing their defensive muscles, leading to a tense first eight minutes where neither side could find the scoreboard.
Surfers Paradise broke the deadlock first, with Samuel Jewell landing a spectacular goal.
Redland quickly retaliated, with Josh Brown demonstrating his uncanny ability to read the game, positioning himself perfectly to answer back.
As the second quarter unfolded, the Sharks unleashed a flurry of goals, dominating with a stunning four to one scoreline.
Clay Cameron’s inside 50 mark was a highlight, setting the stage for a series of clinical finishes that left the Demons scrambling for answers.
The clash of styles was palpable; Surfers Paradise aimed for rapid-fire transitions, while Redland executed a more calculated, possession-based game, expertly threading short kicks to create scoring opportunities.
The buzzer rang out for half time with the Sharks leading, 5.5 (35) to 2.6 (18).
In the third quarter, Surfers Paradise rallied, with their captain, Harrison Fraser, leading the charge and narrowing the margin to just nine points with a well-placed goal.
Yet, the Sharks responded with flair, as Dylan Smith and Bailey Reeves added to their tally, showcasing their offensive prowess.
Redland’s defence, anchored by the tenacious Brody Haberfield, held firm against the Demons’ advances, ensuring the Sharks maintained their lead.
The final quarter brought a dramatic twist as Surfers Paradise kicked off with three consecutive goals, leveling the scores at 54 points each and igniting the crowd.
This surge saw the Demons’ fighting spirit, bringing the game back to being anyone’s win, with players like Harrison Fraser and Billy Beardsell stepping up when it mattered most.
However, Joshua Brown’s opportunistic rolling goal into an open goal square reignited Redland’s momentum, and despite a valiant effort from the Demons, including a crucial goal from Beardsell that narrowed the gap to two points, the Sharks finished strong.
Campbell Aston, the perfect finisher, and Ethan Petterwood sealed the deal with two late goals, bringing the final score to 76 to 60.
This match was a dazzling display of talent and tactical acumen, with each player leaving everything on the field.
Redland-Victoria Point’s victory not only showcases their ability to perform under pressure but also sets the stage for an exciting finals run.
With their sights firmly set on the championship, the Sharks are ready to take on whatever challenges lie ahead, leaving fans buzzing with anticipation for their next showdown.
Redland-Victoria Point 1.3 5.5 8.5 11.10 (76)
Surfers Paradise 1.2 2.6 4.10 8.12 (60)
Goals
Redland-Victoria Point Brown 2, Reeves 2, Smith 2, Aston, Cameron, Finch, Huddy, Petterwood
Surfers Paradise Reardon 2, Beardsell, Jewell, Kennedy, Patten, Woodburn
Best Players
Redland-Victoria Point Matthew Thomson, Craig Malone, Ethan Petterwood, Bailey Reeves, Tyler Hausfeld, Dylan Smith
Surfers Paradise Benjamin Woodburn, Brody Haberfield, Alby Jones, Nicolas Harrison, Caleb Nancarrow, Jack Brauman
