Southport defeated North Melbourne by 22 points at Fankhauser Reserve on Saturday.
Jacob Dawson
The Sharks’ won 15.13 (103) to 12.9 (81), locking in third place on the 2025 VFL ladder.
North Melbourne led for most of the game, leading by as much as 21 points early in the second quarter.
Southport trailed by nine points at three quarter time, but it didn’t take long for them to hit the lead.
The Sharks stormed home kicking five goals to one to win their 13th game of the year.
Michael Manteit (31 disposals, 13 marks and one goal), Zac Foot (34 disposals, 10 score involvements and six inside 50s) and Boyd Woodcock (36 disposals, eight marks and eight clearances) starred for Southport.
Josh Gore led the way up forward with four goals and Jesse Joyce (30 disposals and five rebounds) was solid in defence.
After the game, Southport Coach Matthew Primus said, “Our effort and intensity was good, and I was impressed by the way we were able to finish the game.”
“I thought we were able to work through the challenge North Melbourne provided and find some form ahead of finals.”
“I’m really proud of the guys that we have finished in the top 4 at the end of the home and away season, and look forward to our first final in a couple of weeks.”
Southport now have a week off before travelling to Melbourne to take on Box Hill in a Qualifying Final. Date, time and venue are still to be confirmed.
VFL Round 21 – Southport v North Melbourne
SOUTHPORT 2.1 5.3 10.5 15.13 (103)
NORTH MELBOURNE 5.2 6.6 11.8 12.9 (81)
BEST PLAYERS: Michael Manteit, Zac Foot, Boyd Woodcock, Jesse Joyce, Josh Gore, Jackson Edwards
GOAL KICKERS: Josh Gore 4, Hewago Oea 2, Jack Sexton 2, Max Pescud 2, Michael Manteit, Wylie Buzza, Jackson Edwards, Hugh Dixon, Campbell Lake
