A GOAL from half-backman Brad Coulson in the dying seconds of the match has allowed Port Adelaide’s Academy team to clinch its first finals victory and progress to a second semi final against Woodville-West Torrens next weekend.

Having narrowly led North Adelaide all day, the Magpies Academy fell behind late in the final quarter to stare down the barrel of an elimination semi against Glenelg.

Battling to get clean hands on the ball and with its effectiveness by hand and foot in decline, the Magpies struggled to match the Roosters in the final term, having conceded two early goals.

The Roosters continue to convert and maintain the lead, with its final-minute major almost confirming the win.

But Coulson evaded several players inside 50 to kick truly and seal a memorable five-point win.

The Academy now has a chance to reach the SANFL reserves grand final when it plays the undefeated Eagles next week.

Anthony Biemans starred in his first game back from a knee injury by kicking four goals from 14 disposals.

Matthew Williams dominated running out of defence with 22 touches, seven clearances and two goals, with Zac Hawkins (21 disposals) and Jonathon Ross (35 hitouts) also contributing throughout the game.

Academy coach Mark Clayton told portadelaidefc.com.au that despite the tight finish, the Magpies were able to take plenty from the game.

“We needed to stick to our structures better, but this is the first final at this level for the guys and they’ll be better for the experience,” Clayton said.

“Getting that first-up win is really important for their confidence and we’ll take a bit going into the Eagles next week.

“We never gave up even when North went ahead in the last minute, it goes to show it’s never over.

“It’s been a big second half of the year and to have guys like Biemans come straight in from injury and kick four goals off the back of some really good work from the team is another positive.

“Next week will be tough against the Eagles, but we’ll just give it a red hot crack - now we just need the seniors to get up against Westies.”

ACADEMY SCOREBOARD

PORT ADELAIDE               4.3          9.4          10.7        14.11     (95)
NORTH ADELAIDE            3.2          7.5          9.5          14.6        (90)

PORTADELAIDEFC.COM.AU’S BEST
Biemans, Ross, M. Williams, Corcoran, Cooper, Proude

GOALS
Biemans 4, M. Williams, Northeast, Proude, Coulson 2, Foster, Deeley-Godfrey

At Gliderol Stadium