Eagles come from behind to soar over Crows

THERE were absolute scenes at Buninyong after the siren on Sunday as the Eagles stormed from behind in the final term to run out dramatic nine-point winners over Beaufort in the second Bendigo & Rural Bank Central Highlands Football League semi-final.

The Crows led at every change, but as the rain arrived it was the Gordon that floated and Beaufort that went to water, meaning the Eagles have now booked their place second preliminary final against Waubra.

Up forward, Brendan Sutcliffe was able to boot the three deciding majors as twin spearhead, Adam Toohey, was held goaless all afternoon.

Luke and Mark Gunnell were as solid as ever in defence for the Eagles, while Ethan Crackel continued on his good form with a best on ground performance that matched the same high quality one he banked last week in the qualifying final loss to Newlyn.

The defeat doesn’t only mark the departure of Beaufort from the finals, but also the tenure of premiership coach, Rohan Brown, who is handing over the reins to Brendon Howard and Mitch Jenkins respectively for the 2020 season.

In the other semi-final, it was Hepburn that upset Buninyong to knock the minor premiers out in straight sets.

With it now down to just, Newlyn, Hepburn, Waubra and of course, Gordon, it remains a mystery to pundits who will walk out 2019 premiers. however, with the spirit that the Eagles displayed to come from behind in this one, maybe it’s the sort of inspiration they need to get the edge and ultimately go all the way.