Ammos challenge
Great win sets up a maiden grand final
THE dream is still alive for the Warriors.
Those were the words of Modewarre coach Josh Finch after Saturday’s 24-point preliminary final victory over Queenscliff, securing the club’s first BFL grand final appearance.
The Warriors have continually found ways to win over the course of their 2016 campaign, but Finch believes the win over the Coutas was significant for the club.
“We had to get through Queenscliff, who were always going to bounce back strong. We’ve got the utmost respect for that side,” Finch said.
“They are a proud footy club and we knew they were going to come out strong and that’s what they gave us, a massive contest.”
While the win will be celebrated by the players, the jubilation will quickly switch to preparing for the club’s maiden appearance in the BFL’s biggest game.
“It’s a proud moment for our footy club to get there, it’s the first time in Bellarine history but it’s short-lived, our focus is straight to Ammos,” he said.
Facing Geelong Amateur is a daunting task for any side.
But there is always an element of unknown about a grand final and Finch hopes his side can do some damage against an Ammos side gunning for its third straight flag.
“Momentum is a thing in footy, but when it comes down to it, it’s a 50-50 next week and it’s a line ball, so we will give it a crack and see how far we can get,” Finch said.
“Ammos are massive, they are a huge side with good players on every line, so again we will have to be at our best to see if we are even close enough to winning the game.”
Finch believes the passionate support from the club’s loyal fanbase will be a big factor in the result.
“Your supporters are massive, it’s your motivation and it’s why you play footy,” Finch said.
“They are the ones that put us on the park every week, the sponsors and supporters are always cheering whether we are winning or losing so their support next week will be massive.”
If the Warriors are able to win, it would cap off a remarkable season for Finch after he claimed the league’s best-and-fairest award last week.
While the coach was happy to receive his fourth Ash Medal, there is a different medal he would like around his neck when the final siren sounds next week.
“It is never about individual awards. You play footy for your mateship and to win a premiership so you can celebrate with your mates for the rest of your life, that’s why you play footy,” he said.