Someone’s O will have to go in Ellesmere Division 1 Final

Both Darfield and Prebbleton will be looking to end considerable droughts on the weekend, when they go head-to-head in the Luisetti Seeds Ellesmere Division 1 final as part of the Ellesmere finals day in Darfield, with all levels of Ellesmere senior rugby on show.

The match will provide serious motivation for both clubs, with Darfield never lifting the Coleman Shield and Prebbleton last having the honour in 1974.  

“Winning the shield would mean so much to so many people in our club and it’s a real motivation for us on Saturday.” said Darfield co-captain Harrison Groundwater.  

“We’ve got guys in our team like Scott and Blair McIlroy who have both played over 250 games for the club, there’s more who have played 50, 100 and 150 games as well as all the Darfield old boys that will be willing us over the line.” 

They will have the majority of the sideline on their side too, with Darfield host to all senior finals this year. 

“Our club supporters are amazing and all the Div 2 and colts boys will be there too. Prebbleton are in three finals themselves so I’m sure there will be a ton of people out watching the game this weekend.” Groundwater said.  

Prebbleton snuck their way into the final at the death, with a match sealing kick getting the side over the line against Waihora in the semi final 28-27.  

“Waihora were fantastic and we got a lucky break towards the end there.” said Prebbleton Coach Dave Kettles. “The game could have gone either way and it was nice to see the boys hang in there. At this stage of the season, it’s as much a mental thing as a physical one so that was a great sign for the team.” 

“We had an opportunity last year at the shield and this is our chance to redeem that. We’ve been building since that game and the boys have worked hard to put themselves in a position to get to the final, and now that we’re here, go one better.” said Kettles. 

“The club have provided fantastic support through the season and to have everyone heading out to Darfield on the buses, we know we’ll be well supported even in enemy territory!” 

The match kicks off 2:45pm and will be refereed by Eden Brown, who is assisted by Sam O’Reilly and Hayden Cook.