The Casey Demons have defeated the Southport Sharks by 32 points in the 2022 VFL Grand Final on Sunday Afternoon at a wet Ikon Park.
The Demons have been the best team all season, and while the Sharks gave it their best, Casey truly deserves the title of the 2022 VFL Premiers after only losing one game this year.
The Sharks got off to a great start, but they missed a few shots at goal early, which hurt.
Nevertheless, Southport still led by seven points at quarter time. Casey got into the game in the second quarter before the heavy rain set in.
The Demons led by seven points at halftime and extended their lead to 15 points at three quarter time.
Southport threw caution to the wind in the last term to try and pinch the victory, but Casey’s defence was too good.
Boyd Woodcock was exceptional with 32 disposals for the Sharks and was the only Shark who received votes (2 votes) for the Norm Gross Medal (Best on Ground).
Casey captain Mitch White (12 votes) was awarded the Norm Gross Medal for his 29 disposals and 13 tackles.
Brayden Crossley was tremendous with 45 hit outs and 15 tackles. Unfortunately, he received a broken nose for his efforts.
Kwaby Boakye and Rhys Clark were solid down back.
It might not have been the result that the Sharks had wanted, but that does not mean they are not proud of what they achieved this year.
After the game, Southport Coach Steve Daniel said, “It has been a fantastic year. To win those two finals the way we did is a credit to our playing group and our football club as a whole”.
“It has been a challenging and demanding two years in the VFL. I am so proud of what we have achieved. It is a resilient group, and I love the way they have bonded together.”
“Next year will be another challenge as every club will get better over the off-season, but it is a challenge we look forward to.”
VFL Grand Final
Casey Demons 2.2 4.5 6.8 10.10 (70)
Southport Sharks 3.3 3.5 4.5 5.8 (38)
Best Players: Boyd Woodcock, Brayden Crossley, Kwaby Boakye, Jesse Joyce, Rhys Clark
Goal Kickers: Jacob Townsend 2, Mitch Johnson, Rhys King, Max Pescud
