Paunich stands tall to win Panizza Brothers honour

A terrific grand final performance from midfielder Dane Paunich has guided Royals to a memorable colts premiership, the 17-year-old winning the Panizza Brothers Medal for his outstanding display.

The medal, awarded to the best player in the colts decider, has been won by numerous players that have gone on to AFL or WAFL careers.

Paunich was the Lions’ prime mover, as he helped his side to win the ball out of the middle of the ground in the decisive first term.

He kicked the opening goal of the game, as the Lions had five majors on the board by quarter time.

Having won the medal as best on ground in the Lions sixteens premiership last year, Paunich again saved his best till last as he slotted an impressive goal on the run in the third and then booted a steadying goal in the last to help his side hang on.

The goal in the last brought the home crowd to life, after the Tigers had got within four points and were mounting a strong fightback.

Paunich took a number of strong contested marks around the ground and was strong around the stoppages across the four quarters.