Grand final agony for Kennelly
There was heartache for Tadhg Kennelly overnight as the Sydney Swans lost their grip on the AFL Premiership title, losing a pulsating final 85-84 to the West Coast Eagles.
Watched by 97,431 spectators at the MCG, the Swans, who won their first 'flag' last year since 1933, were denied at the death as Adam Hunter bagged a late goal.
It was the fifth consecutive time that a game between these sides had been decided by less than a goal. The Swans beat West Coast 58-54 in last year's decider.
Sydney's key forward Barry Hall, who is set to be named as Australian captain for next month's International Rules series, scored only two behinds as the champions' attack faltered.
Despite a 25-point lead for the Eagles at the interval, Kennelly was at his dashing best in the first half. The Listowel man made a total of 8 kicks, 13 handballs, 21 passes and 3 marks.
