By ROY WARD
CHECK OUT OUR HUGE PICTURE GALLERY FROM THE VPL GRAND FINAL.
DANDENONG Thunder captain Shane Rexhepi could do nothing as the referee blew the final whistle in the Victorian Premier League grand final on Sunday.
With the Thunder securing a 2-1 victory and its first VPL grand final win, he simply fell to the rich grass of AAMI Park and was soon surrounded by teammates.
After four years and more than a little disappointment ‘Rexi’ had finally led his beloved Thunder to the promised land.
“I just dropped to the floor,” Rexhepi said.
“It was an unbelievable effort, not just this year but my whole time at Dandenong.
“In the last four years all the effort we have put in as a club; it was worth it today, it was absolutely worth it.”
Rexhepi praised the Thunder supporters, many of whom arrived early for the game and sang outside the ground while the team warmed up in Gotsch’s Paddock, alongside AAMI Park.
“The fans are brilliant, they are the best fans in Australia,” he said.
“They come out in their numbers, it was a team, club and fan effort today.
DANDENONG Thunder secures first treble in 31 years.
DANDENONG Thunder beats Oakleigh Cannons to snare first Premier League title.
Rexhepi said lifting the VPL trophy was a moment he would never forget.
“I never thought I would have done it, it was a dream come to true,” he said.
“It was an unbelievable feeling and to get the treble, I cannot believe it, I couldn’t be happier.”
The only negative news for the Thunder could come later this week if they receive a fine or other punishment from the FFV over two flares thrown during the match, both of which appeared to come from area’s filled with Thunder supporters.
The FFV is believed to be investigating the matter and may announce a punishment later in the week.
