JAYDEN Brennan’s decision to focus on senior footy rather than pursue a TAC Cup campaign was rewarded with grand final redemption.
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Brennan, who started the season with North Ballarat Rebels, played all but the Saints’ first two matches, including a key role in Saturday’s remarkable turnaround from the second semi-final.
The 18-year-old was rapt to be part of Koroit’s 16-point victory, 364 days after being part of a losing team.
Brennan was one of the Saints’ most prolific ball winners with 25 possessions, but it was his second half that was critical.
He kicked 1.2 in a burst at the start of the third quarter that helped his side open a six-goal break. Then in the final term, he picked up 10 possessions and provided plenty of run to stifle the Blues’ rally.
“What a feeling. It hasn’t really sunk in yet,” Brennan said.
“To come back after last year and the way we had to do it this year is unbelievable.
“It’s the best choice I’ve ever made (to return to the Saints).”
Playing alongside him in the midfield was 15-year-old Willem Drew, who was impressive with his quality ball use and decision making.
“It’s bloody unbelievable,” Drew said.
“Last year I was thinking I might play under 18s but I’ve played the whole season in the seniors.” Such was coach Adam Dowie’s faith in him, he gave him the task of playing the last term on the wing without a rest.
“I just had to push through really. It’s a grand final, it’s what you have to do.”
Brennan, Drew, James Gow, Jesse White and Blair McCutcheon are all schoolboys. Gow was important in the second half and White kicked the final goal of the match — his second — to seal the result.
Levi Nagorcka, at 20, is a veteran among the younger players. He feared his season was over when his left shoulder popped out in round 18.
It popped out twice in the second semi-final loss to Warrnambool and physiotherapist John Cooney and trainer Barry Crisp had been experimenting with strapping strategies to ensure he played in the premiership decider.
“It’s the best feeling ever,” Nagorcka said of the win.
But the shoulder popped out in the last five minutes, forcing him from the field. He will now consult a surgeon.
grbest@fairfaxmedia.com.au
