Litherland helps Lions roar to premiership

Ongerup-bred footballer Angus Litherland has capped a wonderful season at WAFL level, helping Subiaco go through the season undefeated as they thumped West Perth to claim the 2018 premiership on Sunday afternoon at Optus Stadium.

Litherland was raised in Ongerup and played locally for Royals and Albany on his way to being drafted by Hawthorn, where he spent six seasons.

After the disappointment of being delisted by the Hawks, Litherland has responded strongly and won his first WAFL premiership after a brilliant display in their 81-point domination of the Falcons.

The 25-year-old was resolute deep in defence and provided great rebound for the Lions as they set up the premiership win with a nine goals to two first half.

He collected 22 disposals, five marks, two tackles and two inside 50s in a polished display.

With family and friends watching on, Litherland said the grand final victory was reward for their hard work over a couple of seasons.

“Stoked with the win, it was a great effort all year,” he said.

“We were as close to perfect as we could have been today.

“It was a great effort by the entire club.”

The Lions became the first team in 72 years to go through a WAFL season undefeated and their league triumph capped a spectacular day for the club after also winning the colts and reserves grand finals.

Litherland was named in the Lions’ best players and also received votes in the Simpson Medal, awarded to the best player on the ground.

Former Fremantle Docker and Channel 7 commentator Paul Hasleby gave Litherland three votes for his performance in a 5-4-3-2-1 system.

Lions star and captain Kyal Horsley was a clear winner of the Simpson Medal with 14 votes ahead of Ben Sokol (nine votes).