Back-to-back a

While Harrow-balmoral has been a consistent power since it joined the Horsham District Football Netball League in 1997, one prize has eluded the club – back-to-back premierships. This year the Roos have a golden opportunity to accomplish that feat.

With 16 home and away games done and dusted Harrow-balmoral’s premiership defence has been, to this point, flawless. Last season the Roos captured their first flag in more than a decade by capping an impressive 15-1 season with a grand final win against Kalkee. This year they have been even better.

Bucking a leaguewide trend that has seen scoring decrease in each of the past three seasons – from an average of more than 93 points a game in 2016 to fewer than 79 this season – Harrow-balmoral has increased its scoring average by more than 11 points a game.

Coach Nick Pekin said his team’s performance was a testament to the commitment of the players. A revamped forward line featuring former AFL player Michael Close in his return from concussion issues has also helped.

“It’s been unreal having him come into the side – he’s been very good,” Pekin said.

“He got the all clear halfway through the year and he’s only going to get better and better working alongside his brother Simon. James Staude has come back at the end of the year after a broken little finger, so that’ll add another two or three goals.”

Pekin also credited an intense training regime – including extra time spent working on goalkicking – for helping his side improve.