South dominated the first quarter leading by 18 points at the break.

However, the Tigers kicked back to hit the front at half time by two points.

The Lions kicked the only goal in the third quarter and led by a mere four points at the last change.

An inspirational speech by South Gawler captain, Bradley Bain, at three-quarter time had the young Lions roaring to kick the first goal but Central responded with two majors to lead late in the game.

South’s Ben Washington kicked the final goal to seal the victory.

South Gawler coach Shane Broad was delighted.

“We started very well and when we were challenged it was a character-building fightback,” Broad said.

“It was very rewarding for the players to win and move into the preliminary final.”

Lions’ bestwere Jack Greatorex at centre half-back, Joel Chapman in the midfield while Tom Burden in the ruck got first hands on the ball.

Central’s best were Brad Dankiewicz in the midfield, Jason Gibson up forward and captain Matt Good.