UPDATE: The Marong Panthers have decisively ended the Inglewood Blues’ inspiring finals run with a stunning 61-point victory in the Loddon Valley League preliminary final at Calivil today. Marong’s experience shone through as they secured a spot in their fourth consecutive grand final, dominating the game with a final score of 16.13 (109) to 6.12 (48).
The Panthers, featuring 21 of 22 players who have tasted senior premiership success, set the tone early, taking a commanding 40-point lead at quarter-time. “We set it up in the first quarter when we had the breeze and kicked seven goals to one,” said co-coach Kain Robins.
Inglewood struggled to respond, managing to close the gap to 25 points at halftime, but failed to score after the break. The Panthers’ midfield was instrumental in their triumph, with standout performances from players like Ben Gregg, Lachie Lee, and Jack McCaig, dominating centre clearances throughout the match.
Despite the loss, Inglewood’s journey this season has been remarkable, marking their first finals appearance since 2003. Coach Fergus Payne expressed pride in his team’s progress, stating, “We set a goal to bring respect back to the playing group of Inglewood… a good team beat us today.”
As the Panthers look ahead to the grand final against Bridgewater next week, they aim for an impressive fourth premiership title in a row. However, they will be missing key player Will Gadsden due to injury.
The Panthers showcased their depth today, with multiple players stepping up to contribute on the scoreboard. Top scorers included Lachie Lee and Kain Robins, each netting three goals.
As the excitement builds for the upcoming grand final, the Panthers are not just playing for a title but also representing a powerhouse in local football, with all three of their teams reaching the grand final this year.
This victory is not only a testament to Marong’s skill but also a poignant reminder of Inglewood’s growth, giving hope for future seasons. The community’s support has rejuvenated the Blues, who have set a high standard for next year.
Stay tuned for next week’s grand final showdown, where the Panthers will look to claim their legacy while Inglewood aims to build upon this season’s promising foundation.
