The two top football sides in the Riddell League are gearing up for the 2024 Grand Final to be played at Romsey Park this Sunday, September 15.
On revealed form this season, Riddell goes into the match as hot favourites, having been beaten just once – by Diggers Rest.
The Bombers have the form on the board, and it’s hard to argue against their winning streak continuing.
While non-playing coach Arron Bray has plenty of coaching experience across the years, this will be the first time he has been in charge in a grand final.
Bray crossed to the Bombers pre-season after previously being at Rupertswood, as did some proven players, including leading goalkicker Dean Galea who has the chance to write another chapter in a remarkable career.
With a players’ list virtually free of injury, Riddell goes into the grand final having lost just one match – to Diggers Rest – in 2024.
Their players are fit and ‘ready to go’, and Wallan will be trying bring the Bombers’ impressive record to a grinding halt.
The Magpies have long-time coach David Nolan in charge, and all at Magpieland will be hoping that Sunday is their day to topple the Bombers.
Nolan, the inter-league coach, has already been re-appointed for 2025.
Some Magpie supporters think the law of averages is in their favour: Every match Riddell wins brings them closer to defeat!
On paper, Wallan has some very good players, but they will all have to stand up on Sunday or the Bombers will be flying high well before the finish.
The ruck battles between ruckmen Josh Grabham (Riddell) and veteran Chris Stewart could be decisive.
Tough on-baller Dylan Tarczon will be primed for a big game for the Bombers, and the Magpies hope that former leading goalkicker Matt Perri still has some magic to produce.
In the second semi-final, played in adverse conditions, Wallan stayed in touch with the Bombers for almost three quarters, then were overrun.
The Magpies shook off Macedon in the second half of their preliminary final played at Kyneton Showgrounds on Saturday.
The Riddell League is blessed by having six different clubs playing in the three football grand finals – Riddell v Wallan in the seniors, Romsey v Diggers Rest in the Reserves, and Gisborne Giants v Kyneton in the Under 19.5s.
This will help swell the anticipated huge crowd – so the message to intending spectators is probably get there early.
The league, and the competing clubs, are all hoping for fine weather conditions.
Romsey Reserves, playing at home, are itching to land another flag for the Redbacks.
Key forward Nathan Hoy can be a match winner in this company, with over 60 goals to his credit this season.
