The cool-as-they-come Steve Rizzo was thrust into the spotlight to play the role of hero late on for the Lions.

The wingman showed poise to scoop up the ball in the dying seconds, calmly assess what confronted him to steady and goal from 35metres out on the run, sending the Lions to their first senior grand final in the club's 20-year history. They won the second semi-final against Pascoe Vale Panthers by four points at Highgate Reserve in Craigieburn on Saturday.

Lions coach Steve Burns said it was a landmark day for the club. .

"I'm relieved, big time. I'm so proud of them. The club has never been in a grand final before in the seniors and it's great to be there."

It was a rollercoaster ride of emotions for both sets of fans.

The Lions had the better of the early going to open up a commanding 30-point half-time lead.

The Panthers refused to lay down despite being a clear second to the ball in the first half.

They would hold an eight-point lead in the last quarter.

The Lions, beaten only once in the regular season, bounced off the canvas to record an unforgettable win.

SCOREBOARD EDFL

B-grade

Second semi-final: Taylors Lakes 13.8 (86) d Pascoe Vale 12.10 (82)