But is the first to admit he was wrong.
Just 12 months later he discovered it could be twice as good – and then some – after he and his teammates celebrated back-to-back Goulburn Valley League premierships after defeating Seymour by eight points.
Just as the celebrations were beginning, his day got better, named the AFL Victoria Country medallist – given to the best player on the ground as voted by the umpires.
But Lias – who has spent time between Victoria Park and the Bendigo Pioneers this year – said the premiership medal meant more to him.
“We knew it was going to be tough, but this team never gives up,” Lias said.
“The wins means everything to every single one of us. We’ve developed a brotherhood throughout the season and we’ve always been there together.
“I was a little surprised to win the medal but it just tops off one of the best days.”
While the Murray Bombers looked well in control at the final change, Seymour refused to give up and late in the game threatened to win the unlikeliest of premierships.
And Lias admitted he and his teammates did start to feel the tension.
“I was cracking under pressure, making mistakes I hadn’t made all day,” he said.
“There was a lot of relief when the siren went because we managed to get through it.”
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