BEECHWORTH had their finals run cut short last Sunday running into the full force of reigning premiers Chiltern at Sandy Creek.
The Swans gained an early ascendancy with a six goal to one first quarter and never allowed Beechworth back into the contest throughout their 16.12 (108) to 11.7 (73) win.
Chiltern had their doubters after a disappointing 51-point loss to Kiewa-Sandy Creek the week prior, but answered their critics in comprehensive fashion.
An inaccurate opening half (3.7) cost the Bushrangers any chance at keeping pace with the Swans in blustery conditions, who took a 26-point lead into the main break following two late second quarter goals.
Despite kicking two of the first three third quarter goals, the match was quickly taken out of reach for Beechworth who found themselves in an unwinnable position at the final change.
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A five goal to two final quarter was a saving grace for Beechworth who limited the bleeding to 35 points by the final siren.
The class of Kyle Cooper was on full display and dominated the match, along with Mitch Hemming, Nico Stephens, Dylan Van Klaveren, Jack Gray and Connor Garside who were also important contributors for the Swans.
For Beechworth, Degan Dolny capped off an outstanding season off half-back as the Bushies’ best while Brad Fendyk, Kayde Surrey, Clancy Ellett and Cam Fendyk all made an admirable final effort on their year.
Lachie Armstrong was a key pillar up forward again with three goals as Henry McCormick and Rory O’Brien also finished with multiples.
The Swans will play a rematch of their qualifying final and the past two grand finals against the Hawks to see who will take on Yackandandah in the 2024 grand final.
Chiltern made a habit of breaking Beechworth hearts last Sunday as they also knocked the ‘Bushies under 17s out of finals.
On the receiving end of two close losses to the Swans during the regular season, Beechworth looked to be bucking the trend early as they took a slim lead to quarter-time.
With nothing separating the sides in the first half, Chiltern put a handy three goal gap on Beechworth going into the last, when the margin would more than double in the 13.10 (88) to 7.6 (48) triumph.
Jarrah Eaton and Thomas Stefaniak were named as best for the Beechworth side while Reuben Pfahlert and Rourke Warner capped off impressive seasons with strong performances.
The Swans will play the Roos for a shot at Kiewa-Sandy Creek in the grand final.
