Clarke says his troops were equally excited about the result, with the Lions snapping the Thunder’s 25-game Darwin winning streak to consign the reigning premiers to a do-or-die Preliminary Final next weekend.
But despite the initial exhilaration, the Lions were careful not to get too carried away.
“The ten minutes after the game were absolutely terrific; there were high-fives, hugs and backslapping all round, it was a mixture of relief and elation,” enthused Reserves Coach Clarke.
“But after that period of celebration the boys were incredibly professional. They were all intent on recovering well, and doing everything right for the next fortnight to give themselves the best chance possible in a fortnight’s time.”
Clarke says Saturday’s win was built on an even contribution from all 23 “super dedicated” players, and a similarly well-rounded performance on September 16 would go a “long way” towards clinching their first State League silverware since 2001.
The Lions will play the winner of next week’s Preliminary Final between NT Thunder and Southport - and whoever their eventual opponent, there should be no fears in the Lions’ camp.
They’re undefeated against both potential Grand Final adversary’s in 2012, and have also recently defeated the Sharks and Thunder in the NEAFL Finals.
But Clarke downplayed any suggestion of Premiership favouritism; adamant the “job’s far from over”.
There were plenty of Lions loyalists around the country who were thrilled to see their side advance to their first State League decider for more than a decade.
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Many fans tweeted in their encouragement, while more than 300 watched the game’s live YouTube stream, commenting with increasing fervour as the Lions steadily increased its lead.
“Go Lions! Excited to the see the future for the senior team” was one such comment, and Clarke agrees the second sides’ form can only benefit the top team.
“I was speaking to [National Talent Manager] Rob Kerr before this game and he was saying historically the success of the Reserves is a good indicator of the seniors playing well.”
“During the premiership years (2001-03) the Reserves team was consistently in the top section of the ladder and going great, so coming into next year this form bodes really well for our seniors.”
Clarke says the positive effects of winning finals will buoy the whole club, especially the youngsters who are developing through the NEAFL.”
“Building this winning culture is really going to help us in a lot of ways,” he enthused.
“Not only is it good for the club as a whole and the supporters, it’s great for the young players who’ve worked so hard all year-they feel like they’ve done something special, and of course they’re more likely to want to stay at the club long-term after having success.”
