Old Xavs sealed a grand final re-match with Old Melburnians when they defeated St Kevin’s by a goal in the Premier Reserves prelim at Elsternwick yesterday.

The result was in doubt until the final moments of the game, and only a late mark from James Dalbosco eased the tension, winning an aerial contest on the forward arc. His kick missed, but the siren had already sounded,

Minutes earlier, Sam Ralph had taken a strong pack mark, played on and sent the ball high to the square. Brendan Goss marked and goaled, putting the X-Men back in front.

The game was a scrappy affair, with neither team able to gain ascendancy. Xavs’ left-footers Louis Denton, and youngsters Mitch Parker, Jordy Troiani and Jack Hewitt attacked the ball with ferocity.

The experienced crew of Ed Lachal, Louis Tiernan, Luke Barry made sure SKOB had to work hard for opportunities. Only in the second term did the Tricolours find their best.

Xavs had more opportunities on the day, but a number of shots were low percentage attempts. But they move on.

A grand final awaits and there is a flag to be won.

Old Xaverians 2.2-14 3.2-20 5.4-34 8.10-58

St Kevins         1.0-6 4.2-26 6.3-39 8.4-52

Goal Kickers: B. Goss 2, J. Hewitt, L. Tiernan, E. Lachal, M. Parker, N. Prowse, L. Denton

Best Players: S. Ralph, J. Dalbosco, L. Denton, J. Hewitt, M. Parker, J. Troiani

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