PAKENHAM had reason to roar after the Lions snatched a thrilling victory in the CaseyCardinia Football League reserves grand final on Saturday.
In an amazing comefrombehind win Pakenham defeated Devon Meadows by five points.
The senior grand final between Doveton and Narre Warren was also a nailbiter with Doveton shrugging off a determined Magpies side to win by seven points.
The win was a perfect 50th birthday present for Doves coach Steve Henwood.
“I started to feel like I was 80, not 50,” a jubilant Mr Henwood said after the win.
Despite wet weather, crowds flocked to Berwick’s Edwin Flack Reserve for grand final day in what officials said was a very positive start for the newlook league.
Ben Kitchin was the hero for Pakenham, kicking a goal with just seconds remaining, sparking celebrations that have continued into this week.
Cameron Hinkley was another standout, being awarded best on ground while coach Justin Pearson was overjoyed with his players.
“I can’t believe it, I can’t really remember it, off the boot I didn’t know whether it was going through or not,” Kitchin said of his heroic goal.
It is the first premiership for the Pakenham reserves since 2001.
Doveton capped a successful day with a win in the thirds grand final.
The Doves went through the season undefeated, running home 22point winners against Berwick to claim their second flag in as many years.
Beaconsfield reigned supreme in the CaseyCardinia Netball League, winning the A grade grand final by three goals over ROC and also claiming the B and C grade premierships.
Tooradin made a clean sweep of the junior grades.
>>> Gazette Footy liftout has a comprehensive wrap of all the grand final action.
