The 2025 MC Labour Division 2 Grand Final is set to deliver a classic when Diamond Creek faces Macleod in a highly anticipated showdown at Lalor Reserves.
Both sides have been the standout teams of the season, finishing first and second on the ladder, and now only one will walk away with the ultimate prize.
With plenty of star power on both lists and a history of tight, fiery contests, this promises to be a battle worthy of the biggest stage.
Diamond Creek enter the decider as minor premiers and the most consistent team of the year.
Their depth and balance across the ground has been a major strength, with multiple players able to step up when needed.
The Creekers’ Round 1 performance against Macleod was a statement, storming to a 41-point win with Jacob Booth, Jett McLaughlan, Jesse Thompson, Nathan Searl, Bronson Hill and Taj Logan all playing key roles.
Booth in particular has been one of their most reliable performers and looms as a critical figure again.
Macleod, however, have shown they are more than capable of bringing down the Creekers when at their best.
Their Round 10 victory was built on the brilliance of captain Darcy Barden, who produced one of the season’s great individual displays by booting seven goals.
Supported by Kurt Manuel and Kobe Brandt, Barden’s leadership and ability to rise in big moments will once again be vital to Macleod’s hopes.
The recent semi-final between the two sides only added further intrigue to the rivalry. For three quarters it was an even contest, but Diamond Creek’s five unanswered goals in the second term proved the difference.
Macleod matched the Creekers in every other aspect of the game but will know they cannot afford to switch off for a quarter in the Grand Final. If they bring four quarters of pressure, their chances of an upset are very real.
Star power will light up the contest. Macleod boast plenty of experience and top-end talent, with VFL-listed Darcy Hogg a possible inclusion after missing last week, while former Essendon defender Michael Hurley adds strength and composure to their backline.
Barden’s ability to hit the scoreboard makes him the player most likely to break the game open, and his duel with Diamond Creek’s defence could be decisive.
For the Creekers, former Gold Coast Suns midfielder Darcy Macpherson has been a standout recruit, bringing polish and composure in big moments.
His brother, VFL-listed Ewan Macpherson, adds further midfield and forward strength, while Taj Logan’s explosiveness around middle of the ground and wing gives the Creekers an X-factor that can turn matches quickly.
Both sides have been building for this moment, and both know what is at stake.
Diamond Creek will be desperate to capitalise on their dominant season and claim the flag that would cap off a year of hard work.
Macleod, on the other hand, will relish the underdog tag and look to draw inspiration from their captain’s leadership and their ability to rise in big games.
With so much talent on display, expect a high-pressure, high-quality contest that could go down to the wire. This Grand Final has all the makings of one of the greats.
