UPDATE: In a nail-biting finish, the Mines Rovers triumphed over their arch-rivals, Boulder, in the Goldfields Football League grand final on July 15, 2023, securing an 11.10 (76) to 9.13 (67) victory at Digger Daws Oval. This dramatic win marks the Diorites’ first premiership in seven years and etches Amar Elnour into club history with his pivotal late-game goal.
The match showcased a thrilling display of football, with multiple lead changes in the final quarter. Fans were on the edge of their seats as the Diorites battled back from behind to claim the championship. The victory was especially poignant for joint vice-captain Matt Braham, who celebrated his 150th senior game by being carried off the field amidst raucous celebrations from the blue-and-white supporters.
The clash was the first grand final derby between these two traditional rivals since 2018, and it lived up to expectations with an intense contest that kept the outcome uncertain until the final moments. After trailing at halftime by 12 points, Mines Rovers rallied in the third quarter, outscoring Boulder four goals to two, setting the stage for a thrilling finish.
As the final term unfolded, Boulder surged ahead with early goals from Guy Laughlin and Dustin Walters, taking a 13-point lead. However, Elnour’s contested mark and subsequent goal shifted momentum back to the Diorites, igniting a comeback that culminated in a stunning goal from a tight angle that put them ahead by four points at the 14-minute mark.
With just minutes remaining, Cale Delbridge sealed the victory for Mines Rovers with a crucial goal, demonstrating the team’s resilience and determination. Despite Boulder’s attempts to fight back, they were unable to convert critical scoring opportunities, culminating in a heartbreaking loss.
“We jumped out of the blocks and had massive scoring opportunities in that first quarter and didn’t take our opportunities,” said Mines Rovers coach Marc Johnstone. “It was a long last five minutes, but we got there — I knew we’d run the game out and had the fitness to do it.”
Boulder coach Kye Bradley expressed disappointment over missed chances, particularly in the first quarter. “That was the tale of the day — we had our opportunities and just didn’t take them,” he lamented. Key players like Richie Bourne and Scott Worthington also made significant contributions for Boulder, but it wasn’t enough to clinch the title.
The Fyson Medal was awarded to Cale Delbridge for his outstanding midfield performance, while Kodee Lowe claimed the Subiaco Golds award as the leading forward on the ground with three goals. This victory not only signifies a triumphant end to the season for Mines Rovers but also sets the stage for an exciting future as they look to build on this success.
As fans and players celebrate this monumental win, all eyes will be on the upcoming season to see if the Diorites can maintain their momentum and defend their title. For Boulder, the journey to reclaim the championship begins now as they reflect on this hard-fought battle.
