Lions keep Lake Albert goalless on way to grand final glory

Lake Albert had been undefeated until Saturday's decider at Wagga's Equex Centre, the results also marking Young's first premiership victory since 2012.

The Lions hadn't scored a goal against their grand final rivals in this season's previous encounters, however found the back of the net on three occasions to complete a thumping 3-0 victory.

Coach Mark Mellish said belief was always there.

"I think the boys knew we were as good as them, despite not scoring a goal against them during the season. We had belief," Mellish said.

Young hit the woodwork through Nic Croke early, however managed to take a 1-0 lead into the break thanks to nice angled finish from Conor Quinn's right boot into the bottom corner.

Mellish said the talk at halftime was focused on extending the lead and not hanging on to the one goal advantage.

Clancy Hislop gave the Lions some breathing space with what Mellish described as one of the best individual goals he's ever seen.

Hislop beat several defenders as he made his way towards goal from 25 yards out before rifling the ball into the back of the net.

"He kept the ball at his feet the hole time. It was one of the best goals I've ever seen," Mellish said.

Lake Albert tried to reduce the margin by throwing more players forward, however Young's win was confirmed when Ian Pollard intercepted a back pass and beat the goalkeeper.

Mellish said every player helped execute the gameplan to perfection.

"Every single player turned up. I said to them here's the gamplan and every player stood up and did it. I told them to have fun and they did," he said.

Quinn was awarded the Man of the Match prize, however Mellish said it could have gone to a number of players.

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