A STUNNING eight-goal final quarter eventually proved the difference in Saturday's Ovens and King grand final with North Wangaratta steamrolling Whorouly by 47 points to claim their first premiership in 15 years.
While the Hawks entered the game as favorites and were quite clearly the better team for the first three quarters, Whorouly's fight and determination saw them trail by 11 points at the final change.
The Lions looked to grab the early momentum in the final quarter as Kyle Archibald found league leading goal kicker Richard Leahy in space 40m out.
Despite being well held by veteran Hawk Andrew Harris, Leahy converted his second major as the margin was reduced to less than a kick.
With the game well and truly on the line the 3000 strong crowd were expecting a grandstand finish much the same as last season.
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NORTH Wangaratta players celebrate the club's first premiership since 1997 on Saturday after defeating Whorouly by 43 points at the WJ Findlay Oval.
Last Modified on 20/09/2012 12:32