They have won the championship for the second time in three years and the fourth time in five years. As a matter of fact, the ABL has only been in existence for five years. Proving the dominance of Perth.
"We're a bunch of fighters," Tim Kennelly said. "We've done that for years, so it was good to bounce back with that win."
Luke Hughes hit a superstar three-run homer in the seventh inning to put the nail in the coffin. Tim Smith also launched a home run for the Heat. Kennelly, however, started the party with a two run shot to open the game.
"It's a pretty special moment for my career out here in Australia," de San Miguel said. "It's been a hell of a year. We've had our ups and downs and adversity, and to come through with that clutch hit last night and win tonight, it's a special moment."
de San Miguel was the went 1-4 on the night, but earned Most Valuable Player honors for proving that he was the both offensively and defensively sound throughout all three games. He had the game winning hit in the top of the 10th inning of Game 2.
"Perth got the job done tonight," Adelaide manager Brooke Knight said. "It's a shame to end on that note, but take no credit away from our guys. They've fought and fought this season, and their character as a group is undeniable."
Perth struggled early in the season. They were 10-13, but finished the season with a 19-7 record, including the postseason. It was an impressive comeback that not many expected.
"These guys have battled back from so much," Perth manager Steve Fish said. "It's an incredible feeling."
-Evan Petzold