The Eastern Football Netball League opened the 2024 season with Divisions 1 to 4 kicking off round one fixtures on the weekend. Division 3 saw a grand final rematch between reigning premiers Donvale taking on Ferntree Gully at Wally Tew Reserve.
Aiming to avenge their grand final loss, Ferntree Gully fielded a team including nine different players from their grand final team. Led by newly appointed captain Jack Flannery, the Eagles burst out of the gate with intent and gained a 3 goal to 1 lead at the conclusion of the first quarter, aided by some wayward goal kicking from Donvale.
The second quarter saw an even contest as more inaccurate shots at goal from both teams resulted in a halftime margin of 3 points in favour of Ferntree Gully.
Coming out of the half the reigning premiers took control of the third quarter, holding the eagles goalless whilst slotting two of their own to take a 10 point lead heading in to the final break. The third term saw injuries to 2023 Team of the Year forward Gavin Kalisperis and midfielder Jake Siewert as Ferntree Gully were reduced to two rotations from early on in the second half.
With the game still well and truly on the line, Donvale fired early in the last quarter to take the wind out of Ferntree Gully’s sails and rounded out the game with a 4 goal to 2 final term to finish with a 27 point victory.
Dusting off the opening round loss, the Eagles will face former Division 1 side Upper Ferntree Gully in a night game for round two, an exciting clash of neighbouring suburbs.
