The Armidale side dominated the game and Nomads’ player-coach Tom Granleese said the team’s effort held the Saints under pressure the for entire game.

“We executed our running game the way we needed to and each quarter we led them,” he said.

“I think this really concerned them and by the last quarter we were in full control and kicked six goals to ensure we were well in front.”

Leading the Nomads’ charge was Weston Whitby.

“Whitby was an enormous asset in front of the post, scoring four of our goals,” Granleese said.

Going into Saturday’s game, the Nomads’ had previously suffered at the hands of the Saints and Granleese said his side were happy to hear the final siren despite their convincing lead.

“Even though we were well in front, it was not until the final quarter with 10 minutes to go did we enjoy the game knowing we had enough of a lead to win,” he said.

More than half the players in the Nomads first grade side have only been with the club for two seasons and Granleese said just making the final was enough to be proud of.

“Around 40 per cent of the team only joined this year and all season we have worked at playing as a team,” he said.

“Saturday’s game was the best game we have played as a team all year and the result was testament to that.”

With the 2012 season wrapped up and Armidale claiming the premiership, Granleese said his side would now see a few departures.

A number of players will be hanging up the boots and some, like David Richards, will move on and look to make it into the Sydney Swans Academy,” he said.

“But until then, we will enjoy celebrating our first premiership in eight years.”