On a feel-good day for Bulldogs supporters this was a moment to crown them all.
Addressing the crowd after the final siren marked a 13.11 (89) to 10.7 (67) win over Sydney, coach Luke Beveridge noted the bravery and support of the club's injured skipper Bob Murphy. And then he invited him on the stage.
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Beveridge gives winner's medal to Murphy
In an emotional moment Bulldogs coach Luke Beveridge gave his winner's medal to injured captain Bob Murphy. Vision courtesy Seven Network
With a collective intake of breath at the MCG and in front of TVs around the nation, Beveridge handed Murphy his premiership medallion.
"This is your's mate. You deserve it more than anyone," Beveridge said.
Murphy then lifted the premiership cup with acting captain Easton Wood, a career moment just two years ago he feared had passed him by.
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Joining the lap of honour, Murphy moments later told Fairfax Media and Seven Network reporter Samantha Lane he could barely believe what was happening.
"We must be dreaming. It's something else. We didn't even allow ourselves daydreams about this. Sons and daughters of the Scray, we're bringing it home. Home!"
The club veteran injured his knee early in the season, but has remained a strong influence at Whitten Oval - as mentor, brotherly figure and beating heart of the side.
Coach Luke Beverage did not let Murphy miss out on the celebrations.
In emotional scenes at the MCG, Beverage invited Murphy on stage and gave him his premiership medal.
Another memorable moment in a very memorable grand final.
Sons and daughters of the Scray, we're bringing it home. Home!"
Bob Murphy
What a moment for @BobMurphy02. #AFLGF https://t.co/xSMujdXJF4
— AFL (@AFL) October 1, 2016
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