Subiaco makes it two in a row

by LES EVERETT

IT seemed too early to read too much into it but there was plenty of meaning in the opening moments of the WAFL grand final. Veteran midfielder Allistair Pickett gathered the ball after a belted ruck knock from Luke Newick and, as he has done so often, placed a perfect pass onto the chest of full forward Brad Smith. The first goal was on the board in less than a minute. At quarter time the score was 4.4 to nothing, Claremont hadn't looked like scoring and Smith had 3.2.

b smith

Simpson Medal winner Brad Smith.

A couple of goals from Chad Jones helped the Tigers steady and twice during the second quarter they got within 15 points - Smith's fourth goal made it 21 points at the main break. The margin was manageable but Claremont wasn't playing well. Too often kicks fell short or went to situations not to the advantage of the team.

In the third quarter the Lions put the result beyond doubt scoring five goals to two as the Tigers tried to make things happen but failed. Pickett mesmerised his opponents, brilliant youngster Daniel Rich kicked two goals and Anthony Beattie, Marc Webb and Ben Keevers got right on top.

Sandover Medallist Anthony Jones was well held by Mark Nicoski, Shane Parker shut down Mitch Morton and Darren Rumble did the job on Chad Jones who finished with three goals.

Smith was awarded the Simpson Medal for his commanding seven-goal performance that just shaded the marvellous 34-year-old Pickett.

Daniel Bandy and Byron Schammer were the best of the Tigers in their third grand finjal loss in four years under coach Ashley Prescott. Subiaco coach Scott Watters achieved the premiership in his first year in the job.

A crowd of 19,541 watched the game.

Subiaco 15.13 (103) Claremont 9.8 (62).

23 September 2007

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