East Coast were beaten by a better side on the day when they went down to Western Suburbs in last Saturday’s qualifying final in the AFL Sydney Premier League. The Magpies had five goals on the board inside 15 minutes of the first quarter and, from that moment on, it was always going to be catch-up football for the Eagles.

After that initial onslaught, East Coast limited the damage quite effectively during the balance of the first quarter and all of the second to go into the long break just 10 points shy of the Magpies. The Eagles had rediscovered their running game and were applying pressure to Wests where they were vulnerable.

However, the half-time break didn’t help the Hills-based side as it stopped their momentum build-up, which was not to return for the third quarter. The Magpies systematically destroyed the Eagles in this vital term, kicking seven goals to just the solitary one in reply. Although the Eagles won the last quarter, the damage had been done and even the most optimistic East Coast supporter could not anticipate a miraculous last quarter comeback.

Ryan Fitton was easily East Coast’s best player in the midfield and he was courage personified as he contributed brilliantly in a magnificent running game. Ben Physick at full-back was once again assigned the task of minding the League’s leading goalkicker, Wests Matthew Eurell, who did not kick a goal for the game. 

The Eagles secured the double chance in the finals by finishing third and their loss now sets up yet another classic encounter with Pennant Hills next Sunday, September 5 at Blacktown Olympic Park in the first semi-final at 2.15pm. The winner of this match stays in the race for the premiership, whilst the loser can begin to plan for next season.

A reminder for local fans is that the Eagles U/18 Premier Cup team will be in action at Bruce Purser Reserve next Saturday, September 4, when they take on Sydney Uni at 10am in the second semi-final. The winner of this match goes directly to the grand final.

Then, why not continue your “local footy fix” the following day out at Blacktown and lend your support to the Eagles in their quest to continue to remain in play-off contention in the Premier League.            

Western Suburbs   6.3   7.7   14.10   15.11   (101)
East Coast   3.3   6.3   7.4   10.10   (70)

Goal kickers: Jamie Vlatko 3, Damien Charleston 2, Mark Goodey, Jon Vlatko, Damien Bowles, Mike Beardsley, Dean Costello

Best players: Ryan Fitton, Ben Physick, Jon Vlatko, Jack Dimery, Damien Charleston, Mike Beardsley