That was until recently when the team survived a countback at the Greater Western Region finals in Ballarat to progress through to the state final, which takes place on September 2.

Emmanuel defeated (1-0), Portland Secondary College (4-0), Horsham (1-0) and lost to Phoenix High School (1-2).

Coach and teacher Tim Cain said Emmanuel's year 11-12 side edged out Trinity College in a countback because they had beaten them in an earlier game.

He praised the team, which included Malin Atkins, Harry Bermingham, Ruben Cottee, Liam Gurry, Benjy Hawkins, Elijah O'Grady, Harry Parrett, Noel Reid, Isaac Suckling, Obi Wakefield, Jordan Whitton and Jonah Williams, for making the final.

"It means a lot to the boys and they are very excited," he said. "They've had a good team for a few years but haven't got there.

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"The year they have done it it is the last year for a few of them as they are in year 12."

Cain said year 10 student Harry Parrett was one of the team's best, scoring four out of the side's seven goals on the day.

The Ballarat City player, who featured on a wing and as striker, also netted a hat-trick against Portland.

Cain also praised captain Isaac Suckling and midfielder Harry Bermingham.

He said Suckling, who played at full-back, was very organised on and off the pitch, and planned formations and tactics for the team.

Cain said Bermingham was the side's "midfield general" and set up everything the team did on the field.

Emmanuel still has its year 7-8 side to play in the Greater Western Region final on August 9. Its year 9-10 boys and girls sides both failed to make it past the regional stage.

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