Lions roar in Under 11 Grand Final
![](https://aflnorthcoast.com.au/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2018/08/Nambucca-v-Northern-Beaches-U11.jpg)
Junior Grand Final day got underway with the Under 11 match between two clubs that are recent success stories – Nambucca Valley Lions in just their second season taking on Northern Beaches Blues that has rebuilt since not being able to field a team three years ago.
This match was played in the worst of the conditions but had little noticeable impact upon the players as they handled the slippery ball well.
The Lions held a narrow one goal lead at half time but put their best foot forward in the third quarter to extend the lead to four goals at the last change. The Lions kicked the only goal of the last term to wrap up a 29 point win and claim the club’s maiden premiership.
Toby Batten was named Best on Ground for Nambucca Valley, while Ray Christie received the same honour for Northern Beaches Blues.
This capped a great individual season for Christie who won the League Best and Fairest Award. Runner-up in this award was shared by Isaac Luke (Camden Haven/Manning Valley) and Tyler Jess (Port Macquarie), with this pairing also sharing the Rising Star award as best first year players in the age group.
Nambucca Valley Lions 6.7 (43) defeated Northern Beaches Blues 1.8 (14)