TAC Cup qualifying final review

GIPPSLAND Power defeated Calder Cannons by 77 points to win the first qualifying final.
The first term opened with a Cannons goal but from then on it was all Gippsland with Ricky Delphine being a highly unlikely but stunningly effective avenue to goal with three majors in an amazing blitz. By the first change the Power led by 32 points and had the Cannons stunned with their endeavour and skill.
The opening minutes of the second term brought more of the same and Jay Neagle was unstoppable in the goto role. But the Power wasted chances and let the Cannons exploit turnovers with three late goals. The Power’s lead was 28 points but the side was unconvincing and the Cannons were back in the game at halftime.
In the third quarter the Cannons squandered early opportunities to put the Power under the pump but, as often happens, the Power suddenly regained momentum and slammed on four goals with exhilarating team football. The ball was flying around the ground with breathtaking speed and skill and the Cannons struggled to exert any influence. By the last change the lead was 50 points and the Cannons’ inaccuracy had cost them dearly.
In the last term, despite changes to team structures, the Power still dominated the play and continued to score brilliant team goals. The Cannons again squandered opportunities but the Power was far too strong and committed when the game was up for grabs.
In another excellent team performance the Power was led manfully by Trent West, who dominated in the ruck as well as having 15 possessions and eight strong marks. His aerial dominance was matched by Lachlan Hansen, who also generated immense drive off halfback while Delphine with over 30 possessions was a prime mover. Scott Pendlebury’s precocious ball and evasive skills enabled him to provide a potent avenue to attack all day and Brett Dore’s strength and skill was crucial all over the ground. Other better players were Chris Dunne across the middle and Neagle in the multipronged attack.
Scores: Gippsland Power 19.14.128 d Calder Cannons 5.15.51.
Goals: Jay Neagle 5, Ricky Delphine 4, Dale Thomas, Chris Dunne 2, Steven O’Bryan, Ben Ross, Ben Fraser, Tyson Goldsack, Rob Eddy, Brett Dore 1.