Lions claim second flag in short existence
![](https://aflnorthcoast.com.au/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2019/08/Lions-v-Bulldogs.jpg)
Nambucca Valley Lions continued their incredible early run in the Junior Competition with victory in the Under 13 age group. The club formed an Auskick Centre in late 2016, then entered its first team in the competition the next year, and has now won its second Premiership flag in just three years of existence.
The match against the Bellingen Bulldogs was the closest of the day, keeping the big crowd on the edge of their seats. Bellingen started in fine form to kick the first two goals of the match and lead at both quarter and half time. Nambucca Valley battled back in the third term to take the lead for the first time and from that point on the match became a shoot out with numerous lead changes.
The Lions held an 11 point lead late in the last quarter as the Dogs continued to surge, but a goal just before the final siren sealed victory for Nambucca Valley.
Kaylan McGrath kicked five of the Lions seven goals to be rewarded with the medal for Best on Ground for the premiers. The Bulldogs were valiant in defeat and were well led in this area by Jai Bowd who was best for his team.
Cedar Barry (Port Macquarie Magpies) came out on top in an epic, season long battle with Jai Bowd (Bellingen) for the Best and Fairest award. The Rising Star award was presented to Zak Houston (Camden Haven Bombers/Manning Valley Mustangs) as the best bottom age player in the Under 13 age group.
Nambucca Valley Lions 7.7 (49) defeated Bellingen Bulldogs 4.8 (32)
Congratulations to all involved with Junior footy in 2019. We look forward to seeing everyone back for an even bigger season in 2020.