By LIAM TWOMEY
MANOR Lakes’ division two season is over after a nine-point loss at the hands of Parkside. The 11.9 (75) to 10.6 (66) defeat brings to an end the club’s inaugural season in the WRFL.
The result means Parkside will take on Glen Orden in the division two grand final.
With the stakes high from the opening bounce, it was the Magpies who made the better start to the contest, kicking 6.4 to Manor Lakes’ 1.1 in the opening quarter to take a 33-point lead into the break.
Despite the hefty margin, the roles were almost reversed in the second term and it was the Storm which took control of the play.
Manor Lakes booted six goals of their own to bring the margin back to a manageable nine points at the long break.
The see-sawing nature of the clash continued throughout the second half with both teams enjoying time in control.
As scoring became increasingly difficult, it was Parkside which was able to hold on and secure the win.
Nick Grant was a standout for the winners to be named the Magpies’ best player. He was well supported by Alex Lochart who also kicked a goal.
For Manor Lakes, Charles Hunter fought hard under constant pressure while Brandon Turner, Justin Palmer and Nathan Smithwick each kicked two goals.
The division two grand final will take place on Sunday at Avalon Airport Oval.
Although Glen Orden has been the premiership favourite for the majority of the season, Parkside is the only club to defeat the Hawks.
