Kyneton produced one of its most memorable performances in recent history to win its first finals match in 27 years.
A lot has changed for the Tigers since that last finals win, including moving to the Riddell District Football League last season.
The Tigers, who finished the regular season in sixth spot, needed to fight for the whole contest in the elimination final against Wallan to get over the line on Sunday.
Tigers playing-coach Ethan Foreman said it was a pretty special day for the club.
“It is unbelievable,” he said. “It was one of the most amazing games.
“While it’s only a final, it’s the first final we’ve won in 27 years to be part of and it was amazing.
“Seeing the reaction from the people around those times from when we won the flags in the 1990s.”
While much has changed in that time, the same club rooms and ground stand still exist along with the same community spirit and old supporters.
Many of them were at the game on Sunday at Riddells Creek and in tears afterwards.
The young Tigers had to battle all day against an experienced Wallan side. Just four Tigers had played a senior final before, while Wallan played in last year’s grand final.
“They jumped us early and credit to them,” Foreman said. “We weren’t able to go with them.
“The young boys clawed their way back in the middle two quarters.
“It was then shot for shot in the final quarter. They were in the lead at one stage.
“The young boys were able to keep a cool head.”
The Tigers kicked the last two goals of the game to seal a 12.15 (87)-11.9 (75) win.
Foreman said there was so much emotion after the game.
“It’s one of the best games that I’ve played in,” he said. “Seeing that pure emotion and how excited everyone was, made it special.
“We wanted to tick that box and have been working on it for a while. First we wanted to make a final and then win a final.”
Angus Nolte kicked six goals for the Tigers.
Haydn Smith, Hamish Yunghanns and Nolte were named their best.
The Tigers now face Diggers Rest in a knockout semi final this Sunday at Woodend.
The Burras had a big loss in the qualifying final to Riddell on Saturday.
Foreman knows that have to be wary of an injured side.
“They are a quality outside and the best side all year,” he said. “It’s not going to be easy and who knows what will happen.”
