The victory enabled the Bulldogs to progress to their first senior colts grand final since 1999.

Barossa jumped out of the blocks leading the minor premier South by the match-winning margin off 11 points at quarter time.

The Lions responded immediately on returning from the first break to deliver a goal through U17s association leading goal kicker Dom Musolino. It proved to be South’s only goal for the game in the trying conditions.

Barossa held the Lions at bay for the remainder of the contest with the ball spending more time in mud congestion in the last quarter than in the possession of either side.

Barossa coach Bronte Emes was pleased with the effort of his side and their endeavour in the conditions.

“It was very difficult conditions so it was pleasing for the lads to get up and hold onto the game against a quality side in South Gawler,” Emes said. “The result could well have gone the other way on a good day.”

The Bulldogs’ best were Brent O’Driscoll in the midfield, Jack Madgen in ruck provided the Bulldog midfielders with continuous possessions and Josh Osborne also worked hard in the conditions through the midfield.

South’s best included three of the players that returned from A grade, bustling midfielder Fraser Moore, Aaron Bain in the centre and Sam Ireland providing drive off half back.

The Lions will now look to bounce back to the grand final when they take on Freeling at Nuriootpa next Saturday with the current ledger in the Lions’ favour with two convincing minor round victories.