Barnawartha wins grand final upset to end 13-year drought
Barnawartha defeated defending premiers Kiewa-Sandy Creek 86-72 to claim its first premiership in 13 years.
In one of the biggest upsets in TDFL history, Barnawartha held off wave after wave of attacks from the heavily favoured Hawks to win 12.14 (86) to 11.6 (72) at Sandy Creek on Saturday. The Tigers dominated early, kicking 3.6 to 2.0 in the first quarter, and led by 17 points at half-time.
Kiewa fought back in the third quarter but could not overhaul the lead. The margin stayed more than single figures through a tense final quarter before Barnawartha sealed the victory.
Coach Adam Mudra said the win meant far more than just ending a premiership drought. The Hawks had won 36 of their previous 39 matches and had beaten Barnawartha by 66 points in last year's grand final.
- 14 points
- Final margin
- 36 wins in 39 matches
- Hawks' recent form
- 13 years
- Years since last flag
- 66 points to Hawks
- Last year's grand final margin
Why it mattersAn upset like this reshapes a club's entire culture and gives a community something to celebrate for years.
AustraliaFor the Barnawartha region, a first premiership in 13 years restores pride to a club that last won in 2013.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 12 d ago
