In atrocious conditions the Swans turned a 4 game loosing streak to Ballina to achieve a repeat of last years preliminary final and produce a strong performance on an unbelievably wet surface.
The Bombers attacked early to kick 2 behinds before the Swans kicked the opening goal. It was goal for goal in the first term in what was a close tough contest has Lismore held a 2 point lead at the first break.
Lismore opened up the game in the second term with some running football that resulted in goals as Lismore’s backline stood strong while their small forwards put the goals on the board to take an 11 point lead into the main break.
The third quarter was a tight affair with the Bombers throwing everything into the match however Lismore’s backline was solid again continually halted Ballina’s attacking football whilst kicking 2 goals of their own to extend their lead to 15 points at the final break.
The Swans were not about to stop in the final term lifting the intensity to kick the opening goal of the final term and sink the Bombers premiership hopes as the Swans kicked one more for the term keeping the Ballina goalless for the entire second half to proceed through to the Summerland AFL grand final in front of a large Lismore support base at Ballina’s Fripp Oval.
Best on the day were Rhys Lavery, Tom Merrett, Ben Hughes, Angus Legoe, Chris Devonish and Rowan Hindry.
Goals went to 2 each to George Massa, Will Alexander and Chris Devonish while singles were kicked by Nathaniel Ihanimo, Sam Rumball and Chris Fielder.
Lismore 3.0 6.0 7.1 9.2-56
Ballina 2.4 3.9 3.11 3.11-29
The Swans will now take on the Tweed Coast Tigers in a rematch of last year’s grand final. Game will be played at Oaks Oval this Sunday after the junior’s grand final. Lets get all our supporters down their to cheer the Swans through to a premiership.
Carn the Swannies!
Last Modified on 01/09/2011 08:44