Banyule have pulled off a remarkable victory over Eltham in the second semi-final, prevailing by nine points to book their spot in the MC Labour Division 2 grand final.
The Panthers were chasing for most of the afternoon and though they’d challenge Banyule at multiple changes, the Bears had all the answers leading at every change to finish 11.12 (78) to 10.9 (69) victors.
Having been quiet in the early stages, Reuben Blackmore-Moore turned it on in the second half, putting in an impressive performance to help get his side over the line having rotated throughout the midfield and forward line.
Tim Martin was once again influential as the veteran put in another dominant display in the ruck contests and around the ground, drifting back to fill a hole in defence when called upon.
Having had a spread of goalkickers against Lower Plenty last weekend, it’d be the same in the semi-final, with seven Bears hitting the scoreboard.
Lachlan Turner, James Kayrooz, Jack Langford and Michael Edwards having handy days up forward, all finishing with two goals.
Amassing plenty of inside 50s throughout the day, the Panthers did their best to keep their opponents at bay, but would eventually come undone as the game wore on.
Anton Woods, Mikael Avramov and Luke Sirianni were named in the best for Eltham, all of whom were impressive in the losing effort. Woods in particular had his best performance of the season and was damaging in the middle and across half-forward. He also hit the scoreboard and kicked a goal in the third term.
Kicking the first two goals of the game, Paul Harris’ men got off to a bright start to lead by 13 points at quarter time.
But the Panthers would respond in the second term, kicking the first three goals of the quarter to reclaim the lead, before Edwards would kick a goal late for the Bears to ensure they headed into the main break with their noses in front.
After a defensive opening half, the game would break open in the third term, with a grand final spot up for grabs, both sides opted to break the shackles and go for broke.
Ahead by four points at the final change, the Bears ultimately did enough to fight off a resurgent Eltham outfit.
After hitting the front at the midway point of the final term through Avramov, the Panthers would fall away and concede two late goals. Kayrooz would mark and goal from close range before Turner sealed the match moments later from a similar spot to ensure Banyule got over the line.
Paul Harris and Ricky Dyson’s side have now booked their place in the grand final, and with the week off they’ll be keeping a close eye on Lower Plenty, Diamond Creek as well as the Panthers who are all still alive and vying for the last grand final spot.
