The persistence and endeavour of the 21 Devonport players could not be questioned, but in the end Burnie's 21 were better: simple as that.

Burnie turned on the fireworks from the first bounce, kicking four goals to none in the opening stanza and when against the wind in the second term stood tall defensively.

The presence of two focal points for Burnie instead of Devonport's sole target in Marcus Smith was also a major factor.

Spare-parts ruckman-forward Andrew Lee finished his day with five goals. Deputy vice-captain Nathan Ling chipped in with four.

Devonport had only three players who graced the scoreboard with majors, including Smith, who managed four to finish his season on a highly creditable 88.

Burnie also had winners further upfield, including Matthew Smart, who must surely be on the shortlist for senior promotion next week, ruckman-defender Matthew Gardner, skipper Nigel Robotham and the unheralded Ben Hayes.

Devonport went down fighting and was far from disgraced.

Nowra recruit Chris Gallagher, ruckman Nick Hess, Jason Heazlewood, speedster Brendan Muir and durable utility Clint Masters were Devonport's best.

Burnie plays a grand final at Latrobe next Saturday against South Launceston.