All hopes and dreams were crushed at the weekend for the Eagles, grappling a formidable match against Diamond Creek, just ahead of the ultimate Grand Final this weekend in Preston.
Both teams, along with their supportive communities, entered the Epping Recreational Reserve gates with the knowledge that it was the last shot to secure the finals spot against South Morang in the Northern Football Netball League (NFNL) Division 2 Seniors Grand Final.
Despite Whittlesea leading the ladder for the entire season, the side got its taste of fiery and desperate competition from Diamond Creek, who formed an 18-point lead in the first quarter after kicking several goals.
The Eagles were only able to register behinds in the first quarter, but the one-pointers were only the start for the side who had been showing their resilience and potential all year around.
Whittlesea got on to their goal kicking efforts in the second quarter, but once again, Diamond Creek knocked the side off its feet, and fast-forwarded the Preliminary Final match, with 67-14 at the end of the second quarter.
The crowd was full of eager fans, wanting to watch their sides claim the Grand Finals slot.
But the mounting anticipation was the most intense for Whittlesea supporters, considering Whittlesea were a bit far behind in the Preliminary Final, and the side were on top of its game all season.
The third quarter was not as fast paced compared to the other quarters.
But the fourth quarter was certainly a big last quarter for Diamond Creek as they surged past triple-digits on the scoreboard, demonstrating its readiness for the Grand Final against South Morang this weekend.
The Eagles kept their heads high in the end, but unfortunately the side were not able to keep up with Diamond Creek, who will now go to the finals after securing a 122-29 win.
Best players for Whittlesea were Riley Carter, Steven Dempsey, Lucas Hobbs, Xavier Dimasi, Deakin Tennant, and Taidhg Bland.
While the Eagles may have lost their finals opportunity after a struggling match, the side had been excelling all year round, on top of the ladder weekly, taking on different sides in the NFNL Division 2 Seniors.
They finished with 17 wins and two losses, an applaudable effort from all.
The Eagles flew high in the 2024 season and will hopefully go even higher when the 2025 season starts.
