The UWS GIANTS will play Ainslie in the first semi-final of the NEAFL this Saturday after defeating Eastlake by 42 points at Dairy Farmers Park.
In a tough and physical encounter, the GIANTS kept the home side to just one goal in the first half of their sudden death elimination final.
The GIANTS extended their lead to 75 points at three quarter time before Eastlake fought back late in the match to bring the final margin back to seven goals.
GIANTS coach Brett Hand says he was impressed with how his side performed in their first finals appearance.
“We wasted some opportunities early in the match but I was pleased with how Tom Downie gave our midfielders first use of the ball and how we handled the physical pressure that Eastlake applied,” said Hand.
“I couldn’t have asked for more in terms of our effort, work rate and our ability to maintain our focus and composure on winning the footy all day."
Small forward Gerald Ugle kicked four goals while Setanta O’hAilpin was often double teamed but still managed to kick three goals.
Sam Schultz and Anthony Miles continued their good form in the midfield while Stephen Gilham and Josh Bruce also played well in defence.
The UWS GIANTS play Ainslie at O'Connor Oval, Canberra this Saturday, August 31 at 11.45am.
Eastlake 9.10.64
UWS GIANTS 15.16.106
Goal Kickers: Ugle 4, O'hAilpin 3, Stewart 2, Barrett 2, Gilham , Redfern , Thornton , Edwards
Best Players: Schulz, Miles, Gilham, Downie, Bruce, Ugle
