UGSFL 2023: Determined Tigers hold off strong Cats challenge to claim third league premiership in six years

A brilliant final quarter lifted Katanning Wanderers to their third league premiership in six years, overcoming a spirited Williams in a tense grand final at Matera Oval on Sunday. In the Upper Great Southern Football League decider played in front of thousands, the Tigers booted four unanswered goals to claim premiership glory by 14 points. Katanning were trailing by seven points at the final change but an inspired fourth term performance got them across the line, 8.10 (58) to 6.8 (44), sparkling jubilant scenes among the Tigers faithful. Both sides battled breezy conditions all game but it was the Tigers who entered the final quarter with the wind advantage. Speedster Tyrone Roe booted the Tigers’ first major in the opening minute of the final quarter, cutting the margin to one point before Reece Nicholson converted a brilliant set shot from the boundary to snatch back the lead. With about 10 minutes to go in the match, Lachlan Saunders and Laurence Collard, combined with a goal each to drive a dagger into the Cats’ hearts. Cats key forward Jonty Petchell kicked his first late in the piece but any hope of a comeback was already dashed. Wanderers skipper James Laurino claimed the George Warren Medal after his best-on-ground performance, with countless possessions and clearances. His influence in the midfield was helped by counterparts Kade and Tim Stewart and winger Nicholson. The Roe brothers, Tyrone and William, were electric between the arcs, Mitchell Banks worked hard in the ruck while Stuart Norrish and Travis Justins were also strong contributors. The triumphant win marked the third premiership for coach Mark Pinney who said it was made even more “special” in the club’s centenary year. “It’s absolutely surreal and I’m so proud of the boys’ efforts,” he said. “One hundred years in any football club is special and it’s brilliant for the town. “We had a few homegrown players come back this year and it’s awesome to get the chocolates.” The Tigers received a huge scare in the third quarter when the Cats booted four unanswered goals. Entering the second half with a 17-point deficit, the Cats had a point to prove. Goal-sneak Nathan Pearce (two goals) snapped truly in the first minute, sparking a Cats comeback. Quinn Donaldson added his first along with Michael Cowcher and Gerard Medlen to give their side the lead heading into the final change. Pinney said despite the fright, he believed his side would be able to get back on top. “They’re a good side and have a potent forward line,” he said. “We just needed to stick to our plans and structure that we had in place. “I felt if we did that we would be able to win.” Pinney said the premiership also marked his final match at the helm. “This is my last match and it has been a hell of a journey for me and my family,” he said. “I’ve loved every minute of it and I’ve been a part of a wonderful organisation. “I am extremely lucky to have been a part of this great club.” Earlier, the Cats’ won the toss and kicked with the breeze towards the western end and looked the better side early. Pearce kicked the opener but his side would struggle to make the most of their countless opportunities, managing just 1.3 to quarter-time. Tigers big man Caleb Keely kicked two goals, including one on the quarter-time siren, ensuring the Cats paid for their numerous squandered chances. The Cats faced a tough ask in the second term, fighting against the strong breeze but managed to control possession. Although they played most of the quarter on their terms, they struggled with the final kick inside-50. The competition’s leading goal-kicker Collard, who kicked a game-high three majors, only needed a sniff to hurt the Cats. He booted two in two minutes to give his side a 17-point advantage heading into the main break. Defender Angus Longmire was outstanding in a losing affair, Cameron Smith won plenty of the ball and Petchell was a strong target around the ground. Cats midfield trio Kyle Shanahan, Quinn Donaldson and Leo Graham medallist Simon Panizza were key contributors and Pearce booted two majors. Cats coach Teke Vernon said he was proud of his side, in particular their response after half-time. “We knew if we stuck with them we would be able to grind it out,” he said. “We had a lot of belief and just wanted to be stronger for longer. “To Katanning’s credit, they have a lot of depth and their big guns fired. “It hurts not being able to win, and a lot of effort went into it especially coming from third position on the ladder.” Vernon said he’s eager to keep the core group of players together and hopes to go one better next year. “We have got to stick fat together and we have a great group of players here,” Vernon said. “If we continue to build on that we can have another good go next year.”