In a typical derby clash, second-placed Gawler Central were challenged to the final siren by cross town rival South Gawler to prevail by 25 points.
Gawler Central had the Lions on the back foot early in the game leading by 25 points at quarter time.
South responded well after the first break to kick the first three goals of the second quarter and get back within striking distance at half-time.
The margin was only 12 points at half time and again the Lions began very well to hit the front early in the third term to put a scare among the Central brigade until the class and experience of the Tigers proved too strong and they were able to hold the Lions at bay in the last quarter.
Gawler Central coach Craig Dawe was pleased with the way his side responded to the challenge leading into the finals series.
“South threw everything they had at us and we needed a challenge like that leading into the finals and the game against Angaston this week,” Dawe said.
“‘We did enough to just get over the line and all the game stats suggested we were always in control.”
The Tigers could have put the game out of reach in the first quarter having a staggering 12 shots on goal compared to the Lions’ two.
“We just didn’t apply enough scoreboard pressure early in the first quarter having 10 more scoring shots,” Dawe said.
“There wasn’t a lot else wrong with the way we played, we just over killed it and could have been more effective inside 50.”
South were gallant in defeat and kept coming at the Tigers all day and coach Andrew Milligan was pleased with his side’s endeavour.
“It was a pretty credible performance given the young side that we fielded,” Milligan said. “It is just disappointing that we haven’t produced that brand of football against middle table sides and won more games this season.”
The Lions were able to give under 17 Sam Ireland his A grade debut and he proved he deserved the opportunity after playing exceptional football in the senior colts over recent weeks.
“Sam Ireland performed very well in his first game,” Milligan said. “He was very cool, calm and collected under pressure.”
Central was served well by Jordan Purdie down back providing the side with a lot of rebound while the class of Matthew Slade was instrumental to the end result.
Youngster Cameron Williams was also very strong for the Tigers through the midfield while Paul Bova provided the side with six majors.
“Slade is improving from week to week and while he is still struggling with match fitness is a huge asset,” Dawe added.
The Lions major contributors included Ryan Appleton in defence holding leading goal kicker Scott Hahn to four goals. When the two sides met earlier Hahn booted 10 majors.
Ruckman Mark Paget provided the Lions with first hands on the ball more often than not. Debutant Ireland and youngster Michael Gajewski were also very good hitting every contest with endeavour.
“Appleton provided us with real drive from the last line of defence and a number of quality spoils over Hahn,” Milligan said.
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