To Newlyn's credit, it was the better side for almost the entire match, but Hepburn dug deep to snatch a morale boosting win in shocking conditions.

It was a long bomb from Jimmy Rodgers at the 18 minute mark of the final quarter that sparked the Burras into action.

The supporters were waiting patiently for it to happen all day, but Hepburn just couldn't get any momentum going.

Immediately after the Rodgers goal, Andy McKay weaved his magic deep in the forward pocket and Hepburn was up and about.

With 30 seconds left on the clock Danny Abbott snapped a superb goal to put an end to Newlyn's hopes of winning.

As the relieved supporters celebrated the club song in the rooms, they would have been happy to see the 22 players give everything they had when all looked lost.

None was better than Daniel Smith.

Playing in numerous positions throughout the day, Smith used his body as a battering ram, won the ball, and brought others into the game all afternoon.

Jarryd King was another that refused to die, with his strong body well-suited to the horrible conditions.

The midfield, with the exception of Dan O'Halloran, was probably beaten on the day, but rose to the occasion when they were really needed.

All in all, it was a frustrating day at the office, and after staring defeat right in the face for the first time in 2010, it was very satisfying to see this group wasn't going to go down wondering.

The Burras now look forward to the week off before the local derby against Daylesford, with the winner advancing through to the 2010 grand final.ql

Final scores

Hepburn 6.13.49 def Newlyn 6.6.42

Goals: A. McKay 2 J. Rodgers 1 D. O'Halloran 1 L. O'Halloran 1 D. Abbott 1

Best: D. Smith J. King D O' Halloran A. McKay A. Ware J. Comelli