FOR the second weekend in a row, Nyah-Nyah West United produced a fightback to keep its Central Murray Football Netball League premiership hopes alive.
The Demons’ five-point preliminary final win against 2015 grand finalists, Koondrook/Barham at Tooleybuc on Saturday sets up a grand final showdown against four-time reigning premiers, Kerang.
The large crowd in attendance was enthralled as the contest unfolded, with the only time either side was able to gain momentum was at the main break when the Raiders held a 13-point-lead.
But even at that early stage, Koondrook/Barham had not been able to exert any real superiority and most at the ground were tipping a cliffhanger.
The first quarter saw both sides feeling their way and making sure their opponents were not given any open space in which to work and worry the scoreboard, with the Raiders three points ahead at the first break.
The Raiders gained the ascendancy in the second term with some fine play from Michael Grant in defence and veteran Guerra showing his experience.
Lucas Matthews was everywhere as was Rhett Sutton, ruck roving and providing the links between defence and attack and Matthews snagged two fine goals during the term to help the Raiders establish that handy break as they changed ends.
Into the second half, the Raiders still controlled the general play but three forays inside 50 returned only minor scores – the Raiders were unfortunate as they had the opportunities to cement a strong advantage.
Demons coach, Matt Campbell was quick to pounce on the Raiders’ mistakes and with Corey Daniels playing well, the United side set up Joel Campbell for a goal.
Alex Erlandson was freed and his goal brought United right back into the game and at the final break, the Demons led by two points.
Experience and the ability to excel under pressure helped get the Demons over the line as Matt Campbell was still running and was precise with his delivery, while former AFL star Darryl White was finishing off what had been a fine game by taking a wonderful pack mark and slamming home his fourth goal.
The efforts of the defensive six for Nyah Nyah West was the main reason for them getting the victory as Clem Dobbin and Damian Williams showed composure in the last line.
The other ageless hero, Ash Thompson also showed he still has plenty to give still full of run at the end.
