Sharks Teach Bombers a Finals Lesson

In its first finals series for eight seasons the Redland Bombers were taught the hard way what finals footy is all about with a 49 point loss to the reigning premiers at Fankhauser reserve on Saturday.

With an extremely strong breeze blowing the toss was always going to be important and Southport skipper Danny Wise happily won the toss and elected to kick with the wind.

Before the Bombers had time to compose themselves they found themselves 8.6 - 54 to 0.0 - 0 at quarter time. The result was dissapointing for all the fans that had made the trip south but it was actually the Bombers inability to score a goal with the breeze in the second quarter which cost them any chance at making the match a contest.

With the wind behind their backs the Bombers only managed a measely 1.3 to the Sharks 4.0 to go into the long break 69 points down.

Shaun Huy tried his hardest through the midfield while Adam Boon was solid at half back, but the Bombers had far too many passengers.

Coach Matt Francis urged the boys to approach the game as if it was fresh in the second half to try and salvage some pride and respect heading into next weeks knockout final.

To the players credit they rallied and finished the half with 7.7 to the Sharks 4.5 to eventually lose by 49 points.

In the second half Phil Carse and Justin Myers both lifted their workrate while Jeff White slowly came into the game, especially while up forward. Jason Eagle battled hard with Kurt Nicklaus all day but despite generating 7 scoring shots, could only manage one major.

The Bombers now look to next weeks do or die final with the Mt Gravatt Vultures on their home paddock at Victoria Point.

With a quick lesson in finals footy, Redlands will be looking for a much improved performance if they hope to advance to the preliminary final against the loser of Morningside and Southport.

The boys will be hoping for as much support as the Bayside can muster in its attempt to win its first ever final in the AFLQ.

RESULT:

SOUHTPORT: 8.6 12.6 15.10 16.11 - 107

REDLAND: 0.0 1.3 3.4 8.10 - 58

GOAL KICKERS:

R.Pantic 2, J.White 2, A.Mueller, T.Rudolph, J.Eagle, A.Marguccio

BEST:

S.Huy, P.Carse, J.Myers, J.Eagle, J.White, T.Rudolph