CHFL heads into post-season

Qualifying Final 1 – Buninyong v Waubra

THESE sides met two weeks ago in the Bendigo Bank & Rural Bank Central Highlands Football League and it was the Bombers who got the chocolates by 41-points. The Kangas fall from grace has been dramatic and utterly shocking as they were undefeated after 14 rounds only lose their last three and finish fourth. Form dictates that they have lost their mojo and it is hard to see them getting past the Bombers who are flying high as the minor premiers. Prediction – Buninyong by 30 points.

Elimination Final 1 – Hepburn v Skipton

It’s a historic event as the Emu’s get there first ever taste of finals football in the CHFL, taking on the most successful club of the modern generation. The Burras go in as huge favourites, and rightfully so. Their preparation couldn’t have been much better, storming up the ladder to finish fifth and become dark horses to go all the way. It will be interesting battle at one end of the ground with Josh Draffin most likely to line up on Hepburn spearhead Sam Dunstan, who kicked 93 goals in the regular season. If he can be kept quiet, just maybe Skipton are a chance. Prediction – Hepburn comfortably.

Qualifying Final 2 – Newlyn v Gordon

Literally anyone’s guess as the Cats host the Eagles in what is shaping up to be the most unpredictable final of the 2019 season. Newlyn have star power galore with Marcus Darmody, the Sewell brothers and coach Dan Wehrung to just name a few. While Gordon arguably have the best spine in the competition and some real firepower up forward of their own. The Eagles inflicted Waubra’s third straight loss last week to see them leapfrog the ‘Roos to finish third, setting up this mouth-watering contest. Prediction – Newlyn but honestly too close to call.

Elimination Final 2 – Beaufort v Springbank

The reigning premiers kick off their finals campaign in a do or die clash with a red-hot Tigers outfit looking to cause a big upset. Both sides are seasoned finals campaigners and have the experience and talent to go through and potentially win the premiership. It could come down to the battle of the small forwards in the Crows, Lachlan Murray, and the Tigers, Will Driscoll, who will decide which dream is over. Prediction – Springbank in an upset.