REDLAND Bombers under 18s went one step closer to their premiership goal with a gutsy 13-11-89 to 11-11-77 victory over Palm Beach Currumbin at Salk Oval in the second QAFL semi-final on Sunday.
In a sometimes bruising encounter, the Lions threw everything at the Bombers early and the visitors had to absorb enormous scoreboard and physical punishment.
In a typical finals atmosphere where everything seemed to go the Lions' way early, the Bombers were somewhat stalled in their normal slick ball movement and the smaller confines of the den appeared to be a contributing factor in finding space to run and carry.
Several missed tackles proved costly and poor decision-making on occasions led to an 11-point deficit at the first change.
The second quarter became a concern to the Redland brains trust and the backline, led by Fishwick, Lodge, Leis and Byrne, were doing their utmost to plug the leaking dyke that looked like bursting open with the Lions winning in most positions on the ground.
The Bombers on-ballers were down with skipper Michael Walker ill for most of the week and finding the going tough, thus reducing the number of forward thrusts that are normally plentiful.
A goalless second quarter saw the homeside in front by a 7.8.50 to 3-4-22 margin and the Bombers had plenty of work in front of them.
The Redland coaching staff, with the belief that they could still get back into the contest, made a number of positional changes but two quick goals to the Lions had the Bombers in more trouble. Now with a 40-point margin, the home crowd had the Asti Spumante on ice, which is a dangerous move knowing the character of the young men in the red and black.
It became evident that after their initial burst in the third quarter, the Lions were flatfooted and the Bayside boys were now winning clearances and stoppages through the efforts of Fishwick, now in the pivot, and Proud, Briffa and Fitzgerald, who were reaping the benefits of his aggressive nature at the Sherrin.
Michael Cook provided a real target up forward, as did Tim McCaigh and with the skipper now moved into the 50, the space was opening up and the Bombers machine started looking dangerous.
At the last break a 10-9-69 to 8-4-52 margin gave Redland a real chance at a victory and no one could gave predicted the story that would unfold. With quick goals to Walker and a cameo from Marcus Smith whose footwork would have him on Dancing with the Stars, the next 10 minutes saw the Lions unravel.
The Bombers attacked the football with the courage and commitment they are known for and undisciplined footy saw reports and a sendoff cost Palm Beach severely.
Several vital possessions saw winger Robbie Jard win the ball well and run and carry into the forward line. He centred the ball into the corridor, where Cook kicked the sealer to record a memorable victory that will see the Bombers combat the winner of the Lions and Toowoomba clash on Sunday, August 24, at Coorparoo at 2pm. All supporters are encouraged to contact the club to confirm time and venue.
One can only be proud of the lads with their mateship and genuine love of the game really telling where it counted. The off-field support from friend and parents also counted in the cauldron.
Goalkickers: Walker 3, Templar 2, McCaigh 2, one each to Munn, Harrison, Smith, Cook, Fitzgerald, McConnell.
Best: Fishwick, Lodge, Cook, Jard, Walker, McCaigh and the entire 22.
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