South Morang was left to rue a poor first quarter in the Northern Football League’s division 3 preliminary final on Saturday, and with it went its grand final hopes.
Reservoir jumped out of the blocks to build a 44-point lead by quarter-time and the Lions never recovered, losing 18.11 (119) to 12.11 (83).
Harry Whybrow kicked three goals for the Lions.
PICTURE GALLERY: South Morang v Reservoir
Reservoir will face Thomastown in the grand final at Epping Reserve on Saturday.
Lions football manager Mark Muscat said a disastrous first quarter cost his team the game.
“We had a poor start and the damage was done,” he said. “Credit to Reservoir, who made the most of the opportunities and were able to kick goals from easy positions.”
Muscat said the Lions got the margin back to four goals near the end of the third quarter but couldn’t close the gap further.
“We had a bit of a run on and thought we were a chance,” he said. “But then Reservoir’s senior and experienced players got the ball and steadied them.
“The best two teams for the season are in the grand final.”
Muscat said the club’s expectation was to make the finals after relegation last year.
“We won only one match last year, so even though we are in a lower division to have more wins and make finals is a good thing,” he said.
“To get within one win of a grand final is a positive.
“We now need some experienced players for next year to add to our current list.”
