Diamond Creek produced a commanding four-quarter performance to secure the MC Labour Division 2 premiership, dismantling Macleod by 107 points at Lalor Reserve.
Led by a best-on-ground masterclass from Jacob Booth and brilliant support from the Macpherson brothers, the Creekers stamped themselves as the undisputed powerhouse of 2025 with a 20.21 (141) to 5.4 (34) triumph over the Roos.
The opening quarter set the tone. Macleod worked hard to intercept across half-back, with Michael Hurley providing some resistance, but Diamond Creek’s forward pressure and ball movement soon broke through.
Nathan Searl was lively early across half-back, while Taj Logan provided run on the wing. Bronson Hill struck the first blow with a superb kick from the boundary, before Ewan Macpherson crumbed a clever goal to stretch the margin.
Ben Major and Andrew Elward also hit the scoreboard as the Creekers piled on the pressure, storming to a 26-point lead at the first change.
If the first term belonged to Diamond Creek, the second was pure domination. Roos captain Darcy Barden finally gave his side a spark with their first major from a tight angle, but it was only a brief reprieve.
Booth showcased his class with a long-range goal before Hill took charge, adding back-to-back majors to swing the momentum firmly Creekers way.
Dale Marshall and Major both converted late, and when Major slotted his second on the half-time siren, the Creekers had blown the contest wide open, leading by a massive 59 points.
After the main break, there was no let-up. Tyler Barnes snapped truly from a stoppage before Darcy Macpherson ignited the crowd with two goals in quick succession, punishing Macleod’s turnovers.
By three-quarter time, the lead had ballooned beyond 80 points and the premiership was all but sealed.
The final term was a celebration for Diamond Creek and their fans. Matthew Lewis added his name to the scoresheet, while Booth’s dominance around stoppages continued as he set up teammate after teammate.
Kade Garraway slotted a late goal, while Darcy Macpherson capped off a brilliant display with his third. Younger brother Ewan also snapped truly to push the margin beyond triple figures, a statement of sheer class and control on the biggest stage.
When the final siren sounded, Diamond Creek had run out emphatic winners, capping off their premiership season in devastating fashion.
Booth was deservedly named best on ground, his clearance work and ball use unmatched all afternoon, while the Macpherson brothers, Hill, and Major all starred in a ruthless team performance.
For Macleod, it was a tough day against a rampant opponent, with Darcy Barden one of the few to find reward with a goal.
But this was Diamond Creek’s stage, and they seized it with both hands, delivering a premiership performance that will long be remembered by the Creekers faithful.
