A BEST-on ground performance from South Australian recruit Michael Handby lifted Griffith to an upset win over Collingullie-Glenfield Park on Saturday.
Handby made his first appearance for the season and produced the goods as he inspired the Swans to a 27-point win over the reigning premiers, 15.9 (99) to 11.6 (72) at Exies Oval.
CGP took an eight-point advantage into half-time but Griffith kicked four unanswered goals in the third term to lead by 18 points at the final change.
With their confidence high, Griffith kicked another four goals in the final quarter to outscore the Demons and enjoy their best win of the year.
Griffith coach Brandon Mathews was pleased with the Swans’ second half.
“It wasn’t spectacular, but we got the job done,” Mathews said.
“It was a bit like last week, the second half everyone got in there and had a crack.
“We probably played a bit more direct, and got our running game going.”
Full-time
GRIFFITH (99)
5.2 7.2 11.5 15.9
COLLINGULLIE-GP (72)
5.4 8.4 8.5 11.6
Goals: (Griffith) D Crack 4, J Toscan 3, M Handby 2, J Gastin, W Griggs, C Cerato, S Daniel, K Ruyg, R Johns; (Collingullie) J Morris 6, C Gordon, J Kennedy, J Turnbull, B Ambler, H Perryman.
Best: (Griffith) M Handby, T Groves, B King, M Duncan, W Griggs, M Griffiths; (Collingullie) M Kennedy, J Turnbull, H Perryman, C Gordon, T Haines, W Haines.
