Riddell is one win from a grand final appearance after a 14-goal
second half saw the Bombers destroy Romsey 20.14 (134) to 5.9 (39) on
Sunday.
The Bombers will meet Sunbury in a preliminary final at Tony Clarke Reserve, Macedon, this Saturday.
Thrust into a knock-out semi-final after losing to Diggers Rest in
the first week of finals, Riddell needed a strong performance against
in-form Romsey to keep its premiership hopes alive.
A week earlier, the Redbacks had a stunning 97-point win over
Macedon, reigniting their season after a string of injuries hit hard.
At Riddells Creek Reserve on Sunday, Romsey took a five-point lead
into quarter time. Both teams wasted their chances early, Riddell
kicking five behinds and Romsey four.
The Bombers, determined to atone for the loss to Diggers Rest, dominated the second term with five goals.
The third quarter saw Riddell edge further in front, adding
another five goals. Romsey kept in touch with three, but at the final
break was 36 points in arrears.
Redbacks coach Mark Pederson said his players’ ability to run out the game against Macedon surprised the coaching staff.
But there would be no repeat against the minor premier. Romsey did
not trouble the scorers in the final term and Riddell played at its
attacking best.
Aaron Blade was best for Riddell for the second week running. The
2009 Bowen medallist is peaking when the Bombers need him most.
Paul Sahlberg was terrific with four goals.
This Wednesday night the RDFL’s Bowen and Ryan medal counts will be held in Taylors Lakes.
