By RUSSELL BENNETT
THE Pakenham Silverbacks’ journey to the Vic Bowl in their debut Gridiron Victoria season fell agonisingly short on the weekend, falling to the Ballarat Falcons 18-8 at the final hurdle.
Almost fittingly, Pakenham’s season ended in Ballarat – far from home, like they’ve played most of their games this season. But it didn’t end without a fight.
Despite starting badly – giving up a touchdown on their first drive – the Silverbacks recovered quickly through some trademark flair and brilliant run from superstar running back Felix Brown, who crossed the line for a touchdown of his own.
From there the game was a defensive struggle with both teams giving up penalties. An interception allowed Ballarat to take a 12-8 lead into the half but the dour, defensive grind continued after the break.
The home side scored one, final touchdown with around two minutes left in the game – bringing Pakenham’s amazing late-season charge to a heartbreaking conclusion.
The 2014 season was one of huge positives for the Silverbacks, who ultimately won more than half of their games (with the ledger finishing at six wins and five losses) despite not having a home field to call their own.
Felix Brown and big defensive lineman Richmond Stowers were unearthed as two genuine stars of the competition, while quarterback Steve Mclean progressed at a rate of knots – particularly in the season’s latter stages. He even played out the final game of the season with a broken hand, which he sustained in the second quarter.
Linebackers Damien Belsham and Adam Kolinski also displayed consistent form throughout the season, while kicker Tobias Currie showed he has one hell of a clutch gene.
The Silverbacks ultimately finished third in Division 2, with the top two sides – the Gippsland Gladiators and Ballarat Falcons, who were both defeated by Pakenham during the season – advancing to the decider.
Pakenham’s junior gridiron program already has promising numbers, with around 25 players registering so far. For more information, visit silverbacks.com.au or search for ‘Pakenham Silverbacks’ on Facebook.
