Shepparton was on the bitter receiving end of a 96-point hiding at the hands of now three-time consecutive premiers Echuca.
While avoiding the ignominy of a triple-figure defeat on the big stage courtesy of the day’s very last kick, the 22.22 (154) to 9.4 (58) stung bitterly for Bears players and staff alike.
The season as a whole was anything but a lost cause, of course, with the fairytale charge to grand final day spearheaded by members of the Bears’ past premiership contingent.
That group included newly minted Morrison medallist Ash Holland, who took out further individual recognition on Sunday with the player of the finals series award.
Taking the time to reflect post-match on a sorrowful afternoon at Deakin Reserve, Bears co-coach Ted Lindon saw plenty of difficulties in the moment — naturally.
Beyond that, however, the recently recommitted boss envisions work rate and learned lessons propelling Shepparton forth in 2025.
“I think it’s a credit to Echuca; they’re clearly a very impressive organisation from top to bottom, and they were far too good today,” Lindon said.
“We didn’t pack a punch, which is disappointing for ourselves, us as a playing group and our supporters. We’ll come again and continue to get better.
“What this group’s hung their hats on this year is their ability to get better when the chips are down, and right now, it feels like they are down.
“I’m confident (in reaching this stage again next year), but I also know making a grand final doesn’t just happen overnight.
“We’ll go again, buckle up and just continue to get better.”
