Harry Denson, Nick Pekin and Jeremy Hartigan all had solid games for the Tigers who had a close-fought match with opponents Sturt before taking over in the final minutes to win by 18-points, 17.15 (117) to 13.21 (99).

Pekin said it was the crowning moment of his football career.

"I am over the moon," Pekin said.

"The move over here has really paid off. It's just unbelievable. All the boys got involved in the match, it is a great win.

"It is nothing like playing a grand final back home. The crowd were into it and the ground was so beautiful to run on."

All three played important roles in the Tigers defence with Pekin playing off half back, Denson at full back and Hartigan playing in the back-pocket.

Denson played the majority of the season as a forward but was moved to full back in the second half.

"I played at full back for the North Ballarat Rebels last year, but I hadn't played there all season," Denson said.

"It ended up working out okay."

All three boys' parents travelled to Adelaide to attend the match and Denson got the chance to share a special moment with his loved ones after the match.

"I was able to go up to the stands and give mum and dad a hug," Denson said.

"It was just a massive occasion. It is unbelievable that we won.

"The crowd really built up in the second half and it would be even bigger for the seniors grand final."

Hartigan said the match had been stressful.

"I was watching the scoreboard a bit during the match," he said.

"It was pretty intense. We were down for most of the match and then just took off in the last five minutes."

Hartigan also had the privilege of kicking a goal after floating forward in the first half.

"It was pretty amazing to kick a goal out there in front of the big crowd," he said.

"This premiership has really put this whole year into prospective. All the hard work and sacrifice has really paid off for us."

Roy Ward