South Morang was slow out of the blocks against St Mary’s but was still able to secure victory and a preliminary final spot in Northern Football League division 3.
St Mary’s kicked six of the first eight goals in the semi-final and led by 25 points at half-time on Sunday at Whittlesea Showgrounds.
After starting to work their way into the game in the second quarter, the Lions took control in the second half.
They kicked the only four goals of the third quarter and then the first four of the last, turning the deficit into a 20-point lead.
St Mary’s hit back with the last two goals of the game, but it was too little, too late, with the Lions’ winning 10.7 (67)-8.10 (58).
Lions coach Dean Grainger said his side had persevered until they were able to take control.
“I’m really happy with the boys,” he said.
“We were five goals to one down at quarter-time. After half-time, we kept pressing on and kept fighting and fighting.”
The Lions had all the momentum going into the final quarter.
Luke Shelton and Kane Maghamez were the multiple goalkickers for the Lions with two goals each. Shelton was named best on ground.
Grainger praised the efforts of Shelton and youngsters Daniel Caruso, Anthony Capeci and Benjamin Nesci, who helped take control of the game in the second half.
The Lions will face Watsonia, which lost to Epping in the other semi-final.
The Lions lost in the preliminary final last year.
Grainger said that only a full-match performance would get them over the line against Watsonia.
“Belief and confidence in each other is a big thing,” he said.
“We’re a work in progress … it was never going to happen overnight. The boys have worked hard.
“There’s enthusiasm … there’s no fear and they have got confidence to back themselves.
“Watsonia finished on top of the ladder for a reason and I expect them to bounce back
“We have to be at the top of our game for four quarters, not three.”
