End of the line for Devils

Wangaratta City FC has no remaining teams in the 2025 AWFA finals series after a harsh weekend of semi-finals for the club. Heading into the penultimate weekend of the season, three Devils squads were still in the hunt, with the reserve men, under 16 boys and under 12 boys all in contention. However, it wasn’t their time, with all three squads falling 0-2 – the under 12s went down to Cobram Roar Yellow, while the 16s lost to Wodonga Heart. The reserve men were up against the ever-challenging Albury United, and they were in the hunt for a while, but couldn’t find the back of the net. Coach Vitaly Leschen said while it was disappointing to exit in the semi-finals stage, the reserve team should be proud of their efforts this year. “The boys were confident in themselves, and rightfully so,” he said. “I definitely don’t think there was any arrogance or complacency that got us, but it was a very good team that beat us, they’ve beaten us three times this year. “For the first 15 minutes, they were on top of us, we were a bit nervous and let the basics slip, not protecting the ball enough and keeping the ball. “We were relying too much on our defence which has been one of our strong suits all year. “After the first 15 minutes, we probably had 15 minutes where we got on the ball a bit more, and the last 15 minutes was an even contest going into half-time. “They scored, and their second goal was in the 85th minute - we were trying to get back into the game, and that happens.” Despite the club’s exit from finals a week early, Leschen was confident 2026 would see teams challenge for cup titles, particularly in the men’s grades. “The under 16s also made the semis and have very good players coming through,” he said. “I think the club’s on the up across the grades, I expect next year the thirds will be well and truly competitive, if not there or there abouts. “I don’t see how the twos would drop off because a lot of the team from this year should be in it next year, and have a year under their belt as teammates and players. “The seniors have built the foundation and we can take further steps next year. “I’m not going to make any predictions, but I’m hoping we should be further up the ladder, aiming for a top four spot next year.” The 2025 AWFA cup finals are at the Lavington Sports Ground this Saturday.

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