Beaming after their grand final win against the KBH Brumbies are the Gippsland Strikers under 14s team, (back from left) Lilly Cutler, goal keeper Josh Cooling, Georgia Hazell, team manager Liz Smorenburg, Aillish Furphy, coach Andy Armstrong, Levi Armstrong, Josh Smorenburg, Caleb Ballantyne, Tayte Minicheillo, (front from left) Lexi Burke, captain Kyra Burke, captain Tyler Boltong, Ben Johnston and Oliver Fallon.
In an electrifying grand final showdown at Monash Field on Friday night, the Gippsland Strikers under 14s and the KBH Brumbies delivered a classic contest that kept fans on the edge of their seats.
It was a tight, high-intensity match that ended in dramatic fashion, with the Strikers maintaining their undefeated record, clinching the win 5-4.
The game ignited just one minute in when Josh Smorenburg opened the scoring for the Strikers, setting the tone for what would be a fiercely contested match.
The Brumbies responded with grit and determination, particularly through their goalkeeper who put on a standout performance to keep the Strikers at bay during key moments.
The first half was a tightly fought battle, with both teams locked at 2–2 heading into the break. The defensive effort from the Strikers was anchored by Levi Armstrong and Kyra Burke at half-back, and Caleb Ballantyne in the centre half position, both playing pivotal roles in halting advances from the Brumbies.
The Brumbies also put up a strong fight, netting four goals and pushing the Strikers to the limit.
But it was the final seconds that sealed the match's place in highlight reels. With the scores tied and the final whistle blown, Caleb Ballantyne unleashed a stunning after-the-whistle goal that secured victory for the Strikers.
Goal scorers for the Strikers included: Josh Smorenburg (1) Tayte Minicheillo (1) Tyler Boltong (1) Caleb Ballantyne (2).
The Strikers were once again crowned undefeated champions.
