Bulls win Sunday flag

by LES EVERETT

MADDINGTON is the 2003 WA Sunday Football League premier.

The Bulls, coached by former Perth player Darren Rigby, proved too strong in an entertaining grand final at John Dunn Oval in Kelmscott and won by 29 points.

Thornlie, now beaten in three consecutive grand finals, began well and kicked the first two goals before Maddington steadied to lead by 10 points a quarter time.

At half time the margin was just one point and the Lions looked in the mood to go on with it.

However two quick goals early in the third quarter by hard running wingman Ben Andrews put the Bulls in control and their six goal to three quarter proved decisive.

The Thornlie players tried hard in the last quarter but never threatened to bridge the gap.

Robbie Davis kicked four goals in a brilliant performance for Maddington, his clean ball handling and ability to make things happen played a key role in his team's victory. Ruckman Richard Ugle, surely the best over-35 recruit in senior footy, was good all day and wore down his opponents in the second half; defender Peter Valenti was strong and dashing and Andrew Catalano, Luke Gilliland and Shane Mallard also played well.

Captain Mark Millington battled very hard for Thornlie; his brother Shane kicked four goals; veteran Darryl Holmes kicked three goals including a 60 metre bomb in the second quarter and Grant Newton was a dominant player in the first half.

This was Maddington's first premiership since 1976.

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