By PETER DOUGLAS
EASTERN Ranges came agonisingly close to completing a fairytale finals series on Sunday in the TAC Cup.
Despite finishing the season in fifth position, the Ranges played some scintillating football to reach the grand final, after accounting for highly fancied outfits Dandenong Stingrays, Geelong Falcons and Calder Cannons.
Unfortunately for the Ranges, it was more of the same in the premier Under 18s competition, as Oakleigh Chargers triumphed by just 12 points to collect its third premiership in just four years.
However, it was a gallant effort from the Ranges players, who pushed the Chargers right until the final quarter.
Among the better players for the Ranges was forward Jayden Stephenson, who kept the Ranges in touch through booting three goals.
The haul brought his goal tally to 10 for the finals series.
Running defender Anthony Brolic also put in an eye-catching display.
Heading into the decider, Ranges midfield star Ryan Clarke had been in white-hot form and was one of the prime reasons for the charge to the grand final.
However, the onballer was quiet by his standards, compiling just 18 touches.
For the Chargers, Kade Answerth won the TAC Medal as best on ground after gathering 30 disposals, in a display that would have caught the attention of AFL recruiters.
Other Chargers to impress were Jack Firns, Tom Phillips and David Cunningham.
Oakleigh Chargers 10.13 (73) d Eastern Ranges 9.7 (61)
Goals
Eastern Ranges: Hardwick 3, Stephenson 3, R. Clarke, Cotte, Garner
Oakleigh Chargers: P. Phillips 2, T. Phillips 2, Thompson 2, Walker, Morgan, Crocker, Kerr
Best
Eastern Ranges: Cotte, Hardwick, R. Clarke, Stephenson, Brolic, Crocker
Oakleigh Chargers: Answerth, Cunningham, P. Phillips, T. Phillips, Pearce, Morgan
