UPDATE: Osborne’s powerful midfield has propelled the team to a fifth consecutive Hume Football Netball League grand final following a thrilling 20-point win over underdogs Jindera in the preliminary final held at Walbundrie Sportsground on September 16, 2023.
The Tigers secured the match with a final score of 10.13 (73) to 8.5 (53), showcasing the exceptional performances of key players including Ed O’Connell, who dominated with over 30 possessions, alongside Connor Galvin and Jed Griffin. This victory sets the stage for the highly anticipated clash against Holbrook on Saturday, September 20, marking their fourth successive showdown in the grand final.
In a gripping first quarter, the lead oscillated five times within just 11 minutes, leaving the Tigers with a narrow two-point advantage at the end of the term. However, they never relinquished the lead, extending it to 25 points by the third quarter’s 20-minute mark. Despite Jindera’s spirited effort to close the gap to 11 points early in the final quarter, a defensive error allowed O’Connell and Galvin to secure the win decisively.
Osborne coach Myles Aalbers praised his team’s resilience, stating,
“We felt we should have put the game away but, to their credit, they challenged us big time in the second half.”
Jindera, looking for their first grand final appearance since 2018, fought valiantly but ultimately fell short despite strong showings from players like Trent Castles, who kicked two goals.
The match was marked by intense competition, with Jindera’s coach Joel Mackie noting,
“You can’t keep them all quiet. We had to try and match them, but at times they got on top of us a little too much.”
The Bulldogs had made a remarkable run from the elimination final, but their efforts were not enough to overcome the Tigers’ experienced lineup.
Osborne’s midfield, led by ruckman Dan Madden, was pivotal, with Madden’s tap work enabling a flow of scoring opportunities. Coach Aalbers remarked on Madden’s impact, stating,
“Dan was huge in the ruck for us, he did it by himself and was absolutely massive.”
As they prepare for the grand final, Osborne remains a formidable force, having previously won the last two titles. Meanwhile, Holbrook is expected to provide a fresh challenge after a week off, with both teams boasting deep leadership and experience.
In injury news, key forward George Alexander was a late withdrawal due to tightness, with Aalbers confirming he will undergo a test ahead of the grand final.
With Osborne’s momentum building, anticipation is high for what promises to be an electrifying grand final showdown. The Tigers aim to continue their winning streak, while Holbrook looks to disrupt their dominance. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see which team will claim the championship title on September 20.
