By WILL ZWAR - Division 3 Seniors
NEWPORT Power has advanced to an historical grand final appearance in just their first season, after a tight semi-final against Parkside.
Trailing by a goal at three-quarter-time, Newport dug deep to keep the Magpies goalless as they won by just one-point in one of the most exciting games of the year.
Parkside started stronger, however a tough encounter saw just one goal in the first quarter as the Magpies took a 6-point lead into the first change.
The match would remain close for its entirety as Newport took the lead in the second term, but were only a whisker in front at the main break.
However Parkside threatened Newport’s dream opening season, as they kicked three goals in the third term and looked ready to run away with the match, despite holding a small lead over Newport.
But with true grit and determination, the Power salvaged an incredible one-point win.
Bassman Abdul-Wahed and Mouhamed El Hassan kicked two goals each for the power, while Issa Taleb was best on ground for the Power.
Joshua Shaw put everything on the line for the Magpies, trying to get his team over the line
Meanwhile in the second semi-final, Tarneit looked strong early in their clash against Sanctuary Lakes, as they held an 18-point lead at quarter time.
However the Sharks would not bow down easy, as they clawed back to be eight points down at half-time, before trailing by just 11-points at the final change.
However Tarneit, one of the strongest teams earlier in the season, showed they still have what it takes to win the big games as they kicked four goals to two in the final term, to take out a memorable 22-point victory.
Todd Lawrie kicked four goals for the Titans, and will be pivotal in their preliminary final clash if they are to win, while Jesse Clark and Paul Manitta were best afield for the Titans.
Jamie Zerafa kicked four goals for the Sharks, however it would not be enough.
Parkside will head into the do-or-die preliminary final as favourites, having won the two clashes between the teams in rounds 8 and 17 by 31 and 80 points respectively.
However Tarneit will have the home ground advantage on their side, with the game scheduled to be played at Wooten Road Reserve.
Both teams will be playing out of their skin, and will bring you the best footy from the WRFL.
Last Modified on 22/08/2016 13:00