UGSFL 2024 GRAND FINAL: Boddington claim glory on rival's territory as Wickepin miss their opportunity

Boddington found glory on their rival’s territory by claiming their 10th premiership at Wickepin Town Oval, leaving Wickepin scratching their heads in the Upper Great Southern Football League grand final. The Warriors ran headfirst at the Eagles, determined to claim a victory on their home turf on Sunday with a brutal start to the game as every player was eager to get their hands on the ball and make a lead to their goal side. The Eagles initially kept the play in their favour but the pressure seemed to take over and their goal attempts were unsuccessful. The Warriors scored the first major of the final, which was quickly replicated by the Eagles, but impressive goals from Flynn Spark and Ryley Hardie propelled Wickepin ahead. The Eagles scored two more goals just before quarter-time, leaving the Warriors one point in front 3.2 (20) to 3.1 (19). But the Eagles came out strong in the second term, scoring two quick majors and taking the lead from the Warriors. The ball went to both ends of the oval equally but the Eagles wasted no time when the play was down their end, scoring another outstanding major from the 50-metre line on the half-time siren and settling into a 9.3 (57) to 5.3 (37) margin. Zackary Pretty (3) and Harrison Ellis (2) had the most goals for the Eagles and were a big feature in their six-goal quarter. The Eagles’ reign continued in the second half, rendering their opponents goalless as Riley Smith, Luke Kirk, Jimi Gillespie, Ben Sherry and Matthew Sherry showed remarkable defence and game knowledge. The Warriors made a last-minute comeback in the final quarter, with Ryan Melvin, Kyle Medcalf, Kye Barker, Jack O’Sullivan, Kendal Ballard and Billy Clay ensuring every goal opportunity was taken. Unfortunately, their efforts came too late and the clock had run down before they could surpass the Eagles, leading to a green-and-gold grand final by a four-goal margin, 11.11 (77) to 7.11 (53). Boddington Eagles coach Rod Williams said he was “over the moon and extremely proud for this football group and club”. “I thought it was a very good game; sometimes grand finals can be one-sided but today wasn’t and Wickepin should be proud of their effort,” he said. “Perfect weather, the ground was perfect and even more perfect we got over the line. “All year it’s been a terrific group of young men and I thought our tackle pressure today was elite and outstanding.” Wickepin Warriors coach Daniel Spencer said the game came down to Boddington taking their opportunities “where we didn’t”. “I felt we challenged them in the first quarter and a good start was important but we didn’t take our chances in the end,” he said. “We always knew their talent would have periods of momentum but in the end, those periods just went for too long. “Naturally we’re disappointed; they’ve been there before where they’ve lost a grand final, so for a few of them it’s repeat heartache. “They gave themselves their best chance but unfortunately we just fell short today.” The George Warren Medal for best in grand final 2024 was won by Riley Smith in his first season with Boddington Eagles, topping off an already successful day. “It’s my first year here but I’ve made such good friends, so it’s a lot of firsts and I’m happy to win,” he said. “This award was unexpected but it’s awesome and goes with everything else; the flag is the most important thing but I’m glad I could give my best in the biggest game of the year. “I played my role and did my best, I can’t do much more than that.” Pretty received the South Fremantle Football Club award.