Two newer clubs.
Two teams arriving with momentum.
And two squads now one match away from lifting what would be a first major GDSFC trophy.

https://footyfocus.org/2026/05/22/frank-sidelines-view-why-hillwood-vs-chandlers-could-quietly-become-one-of-the-best-gdsfc-finals-this-season/

After Frank Sideline gave his own thoughts on the final earlier this week, both camps have now spoken ahead of Sunday’s meeting at New Western Park.

For Hillwood AFC, the run to the final has become about far more than simply reaching one big game.

Speaking ahead of the final, Jonny Adair reflected on the journey the squad has been through together over the last few seasons.

“Means everything to have a chance at winning something.”

“Been involved playing and managing here for a number of years, teams had a lot of ups and downs, hard times for the boys on and off the park, and everyone’s always stuck together and pushed each other to keep going.”

“Grateful for the group we have here — never been involved with a closer group.”

Jonny also pointed towards one particular result earlier in the season where belief inside the squad noticeably changed.

“For me I think we played a league game before the quarter final of this cup against a top side in our league which we came out on top of.”

“Something just felt right.”

“The togetherness of everyone was incredible and I personally thought to myself if we continue like this we have an amazing chance at winning something.”

Hillwood’s campaign itself has not been completely straightforward.

After a very strong opening to the season, the squad hit a difficult spell before recovering form again through the cup run.

“We started our league campaign on fire but we took a few blows towards the middle of the season and really struggled for a while to get back to our best.”

“But we could see there was massive potential there.”

“I think the cup run really galvanised us as a group and helped us kick on in the league and helped us believe we can still have some sort of say in the league.”

Across the dugout, Chandlers Sunday arrive at the final after a hugely impressive first season in the GDSFC setup.

Player/manager Connor O’Neill believes the overall strength of the squad has been one of the biggest reasons behind the club’s progress this season.

“Our squad of boys quality all over the park and good strength in depth.”

Connor also highlighted the narrow penalty shoot-out loss against GSC Sunday as one of the moments that reinforced belief inside the dressing room.

“Our game against GSC that we ‘lost’ on pens.”

“Went toe to toe with a great side and the game could have gone either way.”

And while both sides arrive with confidence, Connor expects exactly the type of contest many around the league are anticipating.

“A tough and physical game against a very good side.”