Wed Sep 18 03:06:54 UTC 2024: ## Sandhurst’s Joel Wharton Reaches 200 Games, Sets Sights on Third Grand Final Win

**Bendigo, Victoria -** Sandhurst Football Club veteran Joel Wharton celebrated his 200th senior game in style last Saturday, kicking the game-sealing goal in the preliminary final against Strathfieldsaye, propelling the Dragons into the BFNL grand final.

The veteran midfielder, known for his classy and creative play, scored the crucial goal in the dying seconds while lying on his back in the goal square, exemplifying his dedication and contribution to the club. Wharton’s crucial goal marked the culmination of a stirring final term comeback for Sandhurst, who came from behind to secure a hard-fought victory.

“I thought Dayten Uerata’s kick was going to bounce through for a goal, but it had a shocking bounce, and I ended up on the ground,” Wharton recalled. “The ball sort of fell in my lap, which was nice. I didn’t know where anyone was, so I just put it on my boot and it went through.”

The upcoming grand final against Gisborne will mark Wharton’s third appearance in the BFNL senior grand final, having previously played in the 2014 and 2015 deciders. Wharton has been a key player for Sandhurst since making his debut in 2011, establishing himself as one of the league’s premier wingmen.

Sandhurst co-coach Ashley Connick praised Wharton’s impact, highlighting his ability to make crucial contributions at key moments. “He mightn’t impact the scoreboard for a half, but that doesn’t concern us because he can kick three goals in five minutes,” Connick said. “He kicks important goals and special goals as well. At times we put him in the goal square on his own, and other times he can play up high. He’s unique in that he can take a good one-on-one mark, and he can win the ball on the ground. The opposition has to have the right opponent for him.”

Wharton, who prioritizes the team’s success above individual milestones, expressed his desire to win another flag, stating, “I’ve grown up with the footy club and played all my footy here, so the milestone is something that I’ll cherish and look back on when my career is done, but right now it’s all about this Saturday. Early days we had success and it’s been eight years since, so I’d love to get that feeling again of winning a flag.”

Sandhurst fans will be hoping that Wharton’s 201st senior game will culminate in a third grand final victory, cementing his legacy as one of the club’s most decorated players.

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