St Albans Reserve to host GFNL deciders

St Albans’ The Gordon Oval will feature a second grand final in seven days following AFL Barwon’s GFNL grand final announcement earlier today (Wednesday, July 13).

St Albans Reserve has been confirmed as the site of this year’s GFNL grand finals, meanwhile North Shore’s Windsor Park will host the league’s preliminary finals bouts.

There were hopes of a return to GMHBA Stadium for the GFL’s annual decider, but the region’s footy and netball boss silenced the rumours earlier today.

“AFL Barwon takes this opportunity to thank all stakeholders involved in this lengthy, detailed but significant process,” AFL Barwon region manager Edward Wilson said.

“The enthusiasm surrounding the completion of our first full season in three years, is second to none.

“Our region is one of high profile and pride, and AFL Barwon is eager to deliver, in partnership with the host clubs, a memorable finals series.”

Supersaints president Craig Osborne was overjoyed by the announcement stating its experience with prior GDFNL deciders combined with the venue’s new upgrades will facilitate a successful grand final day.

“The St Albans Football and Netball Club are absolutely thrilled with the confirmation that our venue and facilities, will be host to the GFNL Grand Final,” Osborne said.

“To be able to stage Geelong’s, and arguably country Victoria’s premium football and netball competitions at The Gordon Oval at St Albans Reserve, is not only a great outcome for our local sporting community but will also showcase our recently upgraded sporting facilities that will ensure that the last game of September for our football and netball competition will be a real special one.”

To accommodate the GDFL’s grand final on September 10, which will also be held at St Albans Reserve, the preliminary final will be held in Geelong’s northern suburbs.

North Shore president Dale Purcell is convinced the club will provide a day to remember for all those competing on September 10.

“It is a privilege to bring a marquee event on the GFNL calendar to the northern suburbs,” Purcell said.

“We are proud of our facilities and will do our best as a club, to provide a memorable spectacle for all football and netball preliminary finals.”

Geelong West’s West Oval will play host to week 1 and week 2 finals as announced at the start of this month.