Railways clinch minor premiership after Pies drubbing

Railways claimed their first minor premiership since 2015 after brushing aside Denmark-Walpole in the penultimate round of the regular season at McLean Park on Saturday afternoon.

Led by a 58-disposal effort from dual Kleemann medallist Zane Marwick, the Tigers led at every change and were never really threatened as they finished 66-point winners to stitch up top spot and a home second semifinal.

At least two of the three Great Southern Football League finals will be played at Tigerland, after the Tigers’ 12th win of the season as they flexed their muscles against a finals aspirant in the Magpies.

A week after Joel Gray amassed 44 disposals against them, the Magpies were again unable to stop the opposition’s most damaging player — this time Marwick.

Marwick kicked two goals and had 18 touches in the first quarter and his influence continued to grow as he racked up 58 possessions and 17 marks to guide the Tigers to a huge win, 18.8 (116) to 7.8 (50).

Wingman Tom Wolfe continued to find space in a telling display which he capped with three goals while captain Bodhi Stubber, in his 100th game, and Nelson Kent (three goals) were also influential.

“The way we started was pleasing, after half-time we stopped turning it over and blazing going forward,” Tigers player-coach Craig Frost said.

“I thought our young kids got back to better form.

“(Finishing top) that home final that just lifts the group and gives us more confidence.”

Shayne Zanetti finished with three goals and was dangerous when the ball was moved long and direct while Tyler Stone and Codey Baxter were also solid.

The Magpies managed just two goals after half-time with Ryan Gaerth (20 possessions) again quiet while Jaden Guidi (19) struggled to have his regular impact.

“We were never in it, it was a horrible game but we need to move on quickly,” Magpies coach Matt Candy said.

“They had about four Zane Marwick’s out there, we just couldn’t stop him and he kept getting it.”