HOLBROOK has lived up to its reputation as the sleeping giant of the Hume league finals race after crushing perennial powerhouse Osborne by 47 points in the first semi-final at Walbundrie yesterday.
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The Brookers made a significant statement against the defending premier, thundering home to win 18.11 (119) to 11.6 (72).
Holbrook clung to a six-point lead at half-time but was able to bury the opposition in a second-half goal avalanche.
When the final siren sounded the Brookers had booted 11 of the last 16 goals and sent the Cats packing out of the finals race.
Jarrod Twitt’s charges now face Henty in the preliminary final as they chase their first flag since 2004.
The Brookers last made the decider in 2011 which they lost to Jindera.
The third-placed Brookers will be looking to emulate the Bulldogs who are the only side to claim the flag from outside the top-two in the past decade.
Livewire James Grills was the match-winner with seven goals including three in a devastating first-quarter burst.
The classy small forward booted five goals last week against Jindera and enhanced his reputation as a September specialist.
Twitt and Brett Doswell were the midfield dynamos with Twitt capping a polished display with three goals.
Ruckman Tom Keogh also did well opposed to Cats giant Hayden Gleeson.
Spearhead James Breen bounced back to form with four goals after being well held last week.
Peter Winnett and Lachlan Trethowan also impressed for the victors.
Osborne was best served by Matt Clarke, Ben Davis and Max Baldissera.
After finishing fourth the Cats will now miss the decider after winning 12 flags from 18 grand finals in the past 22 years.
Osborne mentor Daniel McAlister will coach the Cats for a fourth term next season.
McAlister booted three goals in the first half to keep his side in the contest but was well held in the second.
