Swans win thriller to claim WAFL Reserves title against Falcons

Swan Districts claimed their sixth Sullivan Logistics WAFL Reserves title in thrilling fashion, holding off a fast-finishing West Perth by just four points at Optus Stadium on Sunday.

The Black Ducks led for the majority of the contest but the result was never really beyond doubt until the final siren with West Perth fighting to the death.

Young gun Luke Cotellessa was awarded the Merv McIntosh Medal as best on ground after a dominant four-quarter display for the minor premiers.

The 19-year-old, who played eight league games this season, finished with a team-high 29 disposals, six tackles, five inside 50s and two goals.

Former Western Bulldog Brad Lynch was another one of the Black Ducks’ best, in the first half especially, on the way to 28 touches and eight marks.

Ayden Cartwright (18 disposals, eight marks and two goals) also had a big impact, while livewire Ned Reiger (15 disposals, six tackles, four inside 50s and a goal) caught the eye with his speed and defensive pressure.

Midfield bull Matt Galjaardt was in everything for the Falcons with a whopping 30 disposals, 11 tackles, 11 inside 50s and a goal, John Coleman had some good moments and Jayden Rigoll also fought hard.

Swan Districts’ pressure was elite, resulting in several goals including an absolute beauty from the 50m arc from Reiger who dispossessed his opponent before pounced on the loose ball.

The smalls were getting it done for the Black Ducks with Cartwright, Henrick Alforque and Cooper Rullo also having an impact inside forward 50.

The minor premiers led by as much as 17 points in the second term but could never hold the momentum for long enough to break away.

West Perth never gave up and got to within two points early in the final term when big man Matt McKenzie slotted through his second.

It was goal for goal for the entire last term with Nate Dimanlig getting the Falcons back to within four in the final minute before the siren beat the fifth-ranked side from getting another.