The Central Giants have done the Impossible and have come back from a 0 from 2 start to win the 2023 AFLNZ National Premiership.
The Central Giants made the most of tough wind conditions in the first quarter to gain a strong 24 point lead. From there the game turned into a brutal tug of war with neither team willing to give an inch. The Western Crows struggled to convert in front of goals and were unable to close up the deficit. Central Giants star French import Logan Bonhomme kicked a goal in the dying minutes of 4th quarter to secure the Giants the teams third premiership and the competitions first ever back to back Premiership wins.
Following on from the cancellation of the 2022 season off the back of Covid restrictions, the AFLNZ Premiership did provide some notable achievements during 2023 season. This included the first ever Premiership fixture to be played in Christchurch, a move that can be assessed as very successful and now with an eye on Wellington as the next facility base.
The 2023 Premiership season also acted as the perfect lead in for the reintroduction of the international season, on hold due to travel restrictions. It has provided exposure to up and coming players in front of an expectant NZ coaching staff looking towards representative honours in the New Zealand U18, NZ Falcons and NZ All Stars, all of which have upcoming games.
Falcons All Stars this Sunday April 23rd 1.30pm North Harbour Stadium
Congratulations to all of the players involved on another fantastic season and well done to the Central Giants on creating Premiership history
AFL New Zealand would like to thank the following organisations and people who helped achieve what was a fantastic competition.
- Umpires
- Marist Rugby Club
- Shanta Physio
- Jun Tanlayco
- Auckland Stadiums
- Supporters
- Players and Coaching Staff
Final Score
Western Crows 2:9:21 Central Giants 6:8:44
Goal Kickers
Western Crows: Tom Hayhoe 1, Quinn Prendergast 1
Central Giants: Connor McGeough 2, August King 1, Logan Bonhomme 1, Otto Alermo-Fletcher 1, Keegan Pook 1,
Best on Ground
Harison Manks
