Kenwick's flag

by LES EVERETT

THORNLIE went into the WA Sunday Football League grand final undefeated and simply didn't fire a shot on the big day.

For the second year in a row the Lions have been grand final favourites and still the premiership eludes coach Garry Fuller.

Kenwick kicked into a strong breeze in the first quarter of the grand final and led by seven points at the first change. The lead was increased in each quarter and the Royals ran out winners 14.11 (95) to 7.7 (49).

Kenwick's defence led by Des Milne was superb all day while Rob Stephan, named player of the match, used the ball well in the midfield and Dwayne Cook, who kicked three goals, helped spark the team at crucial stages.

Mark Tyson showed considerable class for the Royals, Les Sharp had another good game and Fraser Ugle did some good things in an impressive team effort by Kenwick.

Mark Millington did his best to lift Thornlie, Heath Woollams and Chris Hales tried hard but the Lions couldn't get any flow into their play and looked beaten well before the end.

Kenwick went from the wooden spoon in 2001 to the premiership in 2002 and coach Gavin Hanley took off a flag in his first season as senior coach. His brother Mick won four consecutive flags with the Royals from 1996 to 1999.

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