Clough claims redemption as Gisborne crushes Sandhurst in grand final
Shane Clough, sidelined by a broken jaw two years ago, now plays in Gisborne's 29-point grand final victory.
Two years ago, a broken jaw cost Shane Clough his place in Gisborne's grand final. The Bulldogs fell short that day, losing to Sandhurst by four points.
Yesterday, Clough got his shot at redemption. Gisborne defeated Sandhurst 12.12 (84) to 7.13 (55) to claim the premiership.
The victory felt especially sweet after years of injury setbacks, including an ACL tear in 2023 and a foot stress fracture in 2024. Brad Bernacki missed yesterday's match after breaking his jaw in the preliminary final, but Clough credited him with getting the team to the decider.
- 4 points to Sandhurst
- 2024 grand final margin
- 29 points over Sandhurst
- 2026 grand final margin
- 2
- Years since injury
- Lachlan Tardrew
- Nalder Medal winner
Why it mattersAfter missing the 2024 grand final, Clough's victory shows the reward of perseverance through injury and heartbreak.
AustraliaGisborne's premiership win ends a two-year drought for the Bendigo Football League club and celebrates a local redemption story.
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 9 h ago
