Thu Sep 12 03:53:00 UTC 2024: ## BFNL Preliminary Final: Sandhurst and Strathfieldsaye Clash for Grand Final Berth
The Bendigo Football Netball League (BFNL) preliminary final promises a thrilling showdown on Saturday, with Sandhurst and Strathfieldsaye vying for the coveted spot in next week’s Grand Final.
The Dragons, who finished atop the ladder, hold a 2-0 advantage over the Storm this year. However, the Storm are coming off a thrilling semi-final victory against Golden Square, overcoming injuries and adversity to secure their place in the final.
The Dragons will be hoping for a strong response after their second semi-final loss to Gisborne. Their captain, Lachlan Tardrew, cleared of a striking charge, will be a key factor in their game plan.
Co-coach Ashley Connick expects a tight contest but is confident in his team’s ability to bounce back.
Meanwhile, Strathfieldsaye’s co-captain, Daniel Clohesy, described their semi-final win as “probably the best footy win I’ve been part of,” and the team is eager to reach the Grand Final, potentially their eighth since joining the competition in 2009.
The Storm will be boosted by the return of key players like Cooper Jones, Riley Wilson, and Caleb Ernst, who missed the round 17 clash against Sandhurst.
Last year’s preliminary final saw Sandhurst edge out Strathfieldsaye in a nail-biting encounter, leaving the Storm with a lingering sense of disappointment. Clohesy is determined to make amends and bring a BFNL premiership to his club.
The battle between these two fierce rivals promises to be a memorable affair, with the victor securing a chance to challenge Gisborne for the ultimate prize.
**In other BFNL news:**
* Gisborne will face Strathfieldsaye in the Reserves preliminary final.
* Golden Square will take on Gisborne in the Under-18s preliminary final.
**LVFNL Grand Final: Pyramid Hill and Marong Set for Epic Clash**
The Loddon Valley Football Netball League (LVFNL) Grand Final will see Pyramid Hill and Marong battle for the premiership at Mitiamo on Saturday.
The Bulldogs will be aiming for their first senior flag since 1950, while the Panthers are looking for a three-peat after winning the past two premierships.
Pyramid Hill has beaten Marong in their last two encounters, giving them belief that they can secure the ultimate prize. The match is expected to be a close one, with only 26 points separating the two teams across their three meetings this year.
The star factor is evident in both teams, with 10 players from the two clubs named in the LVFNL Team of the Year.
**North Central League Grand Final: Birchip-Watchem and Sea Lake Nandaly Ready for a Rematch**
The North Central League Grand Final will see a rematch of the second semi-final, with Birchip-Watchem and Sea Lake Nandaly clashing at Donald on Saturday.
The Bulls edged out the Tigers in the semi-final, leading to an intense and exciting grand final prospect.
The Tigers, led by this year’s Feeny medallist Wade Donnan, will be looking to avenge their semi-final loss, while the Bulls, boasting century goalkicker Ben Edwards, will be hoping to secure their second consecutive premiership.
First Piper 