The Allies have won the AFL National Championships – U18 Boys title for the first time after defeating Victoria Country by 11 points in a thrilling contest on Sunday afternoon to complete an unbeaten run through their four matches. 

Since the current format was introduced in 2016, which sees the Allies, South Australia, Vic Country, Vic Metro and Western Australia play each other once, the Allies have never previously won more than one of their four matches. 

A raft of outstanding talent from the states and territories representing the Allies – New South Wales/ACT, Northern Territory, Queensland and Tasmania – was on show and withstood a late surge from Vic Country to win 12.9 (81) to 10.10 (70) at RSEA Park, Moorabbin. 

Seven members of the QBE Sydney Swans Academy were part of the winning 2023 Allies team, six players: Indhi Kirk, Caiden Cleary, Lachlan Cabor, Caleb May, Max Rider and Tye Gander and Head Coach Mark McVeigh.

Midfielder Cleary was among the best players on ground for the Allies in the historic victory, amassing 36 disposals, seven tackles, nine inside 50s.

A five-goal-to-one third term from the Allies was the difference in a high-intensity, skilful display from both sides played in windy conditions. Vic Country clawed their way back from 26 points down in the final term to get within five points before NT product Orlando Turner kicked the sealer with under five minutes remaining. 

Vic Country, who defeated WA but have gone down to the Allies and SA, have one game left in their campaign, with Vic Metro to come next Sunday, July 16 at IKON Park in the final match of this year’s championships.

The Larke Medal as the Best and Fairest player of the Championships and the All-Australian team will be announced at the conclusion of the 2023 AFL National Championships – U18 Boys.

2023 AFL National Championships - U18 Boys Ladder

Click here for match reports, highlights and replays from Sunday's U18 double-header at RSEA Park.