By Tara Murray
There were double celebrations for Wallan in the Riddell District Football League on Sunday at Romsey Park.
For a second straight week, the Magpies upset a more fancied opposition, this time beating Romsey in a knock out semi final.
As well as a strong win from the Magpies, forward Matt Perri kicked his 100th goal for the season.
Perri said it was a pretty special day.
“It was a good win by the boys, they’re flying at the moment,” he said.
“It was good to get the ton as well, it’s good to get it out of the way.
“I was solely focused on getting the win. Getting the 100 was a bonus.”
Perri entered the game needing four goals for the 100 and it was mentioned a few times around the club during the week.
He said the boys were throwing a bit of banter his way.
The 100th goal came early in the third quarter as the rain hit. He finished with five goals for the game.
“I kicked it at the start of the third, just as monsoon set in,” Perri said.
“There was a big crowd and once the rain hit they all went into their cars. A couple of mates tried to come onto the ground, which was pretty funny.”
It’s the second time Perri has kicked 100 goals in a season.
He kicked 124 goals for Leitchville-Gunbower in 2017.
Perri said it was different feeling this time round.
“It’s bit more strange being at a new club,” he said.
“I’ve had an inconsistent season and struggling with the body early on.
“Last time I kicked 100 goals we won the premiership, hopefully it’s a good omen.”
The last player to kick 100 goals in the RDFL was Romsey’s Matthew Davidson in 2012.
Perri said the playing group was playing with a lot of confidence throughout the finals, despite missing a third of their best side through injuries.
He said the kids were stepping up.
“We didn’t know how we would go. The kids have stepped up and have been amazing.
“Our whole spine is pretty much out.
“[Coach] Daniel Nolan is letting us play with freedom.”
On Sunday, the Magpies got out to a fast start against Romsey.
They made the most of the wind in the first quarter, leading by 27 points at the first change.
Perri said they had made a focus of getting off to a good start.
When the rain hit around half time, it left the task too big for the Redbacks.
The Magpies winning, 12.9 (81)-6.10 (46).
Perri was named the Magpies best along with Chris Barton and Patrick Mahoney.
Wallan now face Diggers Rest for a spot in the grand final this weekend.
Perri said they have nothing to lose.
“The boys are already excited having knocked off Riddell and Romsey,” he said.
“We have to keep believing and who knows. No one tipped us to beat Riddell and basically no one tipped us to beat Romsey.”
Wallan’s reserves are also in a preliminary final, having lost their first game of the season against Rupertswood in a semi final.
They also face Diggers Rest.
