UPDATE: The Wyndhamvale Falcons have clinched their second Western Football League senior premiership, defeating North Footscray in a decisive 35-point victory at Yarraville Oval on Saturday. Coach Daniel Smith has declared he has “unfinished business” as he sets his sights on back-to-back titles and potential promotion next season.
In an exhilarating grand final, the Falcons showcased their prowess with a final score of 13.2 (80)-6.9 (45), demonstrating remarkable skill and accuracy. Smith expressed the thrill of victory amid the celebrations, stating, “They’re definitely hard to win. You’ve just got to enjoy it because it might be your last one.”
Despite their triumph, the Falcons will remain in Division 2 for the upcoming 2026 season, as Sunshine, Albion, and Newport have been promoted to the top flight. Smith, however, remains optimistic about the future. “I want to leave this club in a much better place than when I arrived,” he said, hinting at strategic recruitment aimed at advancing to Division 1 by 2027.
The Falcons’ reserves faced a heartbreaking loss against North Footscray, falling short by a mere eight points in their grand final. Smith noted that this has only intensified the team’s hunger for success, saying, “The drive from the reserves boys… they want to win it next year as well.”
With the jubilant celebrations just beginning, Smith plans to pause for a week before discussing strategies for next year. “We went out with the goal of getting a younger age demographic and building a team to hopefully win it again,” he explained.
Wyndhamvale dominated the grand final, leading at every change and pulling away in the second half with a nine-goal performance. Star player Jack Tessari was named best on ground, capping off a standout season, while spearhead Lewis Stanton finished the season with an impressive 125 goals, marking a record with at least one goal in every game.
The Falcons faced their only two defeats of the season against North Footscray, once in the regular season and again in the major semi-final. Reflecting on their earlier performance, Smith stated, “We just didn’t execute well enough in that second semi… but we were lucky enough to reverse it in the one that matters most.”
As the celebrations continue, the Falcons are already looking ahead. With a commitment to further developing young talent, Smith emphasizes the importance of maintaining momentum. “All the other teams are going to catch up to us if we take the foot off the pedal,” he warned.
Fans and supporters are eager to see how the Falcons will build on this victory as they prepare for what promises to be another exciting season ahead.
