Swifts’ under-17 football team did what many thought was not possible to win the Horsham District Football League premiership over the undefeated Noradjuha-Quantong.
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The Baggies were completely dominant in the 11.13 (79) to 3.3 (21) victory at Horsham City Oval on Saturday.
Noradjuha-Quantong had not lost a game all season before Saturday, including two victories over the Baggies.
Swifts shocked the undefeated Bombers in the first term, keeping them goalless to lead by 19 points at the first break.
Things went from bad to worse for the Bombers in the second quarter, unable to manage a score as the deficit extended to 36 points.
The minor premiers could manage just two goals in the second half as the Baggies stormed away to victory.
Swifts coach Tim Chatfield said he was still in shock about the result.
“We always had the belief that we could roll these guys,” he said.
“We went in as underdogs but I always said that teams are 50-50 going into a grand final.
“I don’t really know what happened, it all just clicked.
“I am just so very, very proud.”
Ben Davis won the medal for best on ground, while James Boag slotted three majors for the Baggies.
Ben Davis, Jake Quarrell and Jaxon Healy all kicked two goals each.
Chatfield said the victory came from a culmination of his side all working together.
“All the simple things we talked about all season happened at once,” he said.
“We had man on man pressure, lots of talk and we had a lot of run and carry.
“It was an amazing brand of footy to watch. Each and every one of those guys were outstanding.”
The victory comes as a big relief for the Baggies, dropping the 2015 premiership in similar circumstances to Noradjuha-Quantong this year.
“I got a bit emotional after the win,” Chatfield said.
“We were in a pretty similar situation two years ago so there is a bit of a sense of relief. Fortunately we got the better of them.
“We knew the pressure was on them. It is a credit to them for putting together a great season.”
Chatfield said the premiership is very special to him.
“To be able to coach this special group of young players has been incredible,” he said.
“It is definitely one of, if not the best highlights of my football career.
“At training during the week there was a double rainbow over our ground. I think we found the pot of gold at the end of it.”
Swifts will continue to celebrate its premiership at its junior vote count on Friday night. “I’m looking forward to sitting down and watching the game,” Chatfield said.