GAME 1: Tamworth Swans v Tamworth Kangaroos
A game that is just not meant to happen, it seems. Hopefully the rain will hold off long enough to see the League's traditional rivals clash for just the second time this season. The first match was won by two points by the Roos, but was a game the Swans could have won with several wasted chances in front of the big sticks. That was a long, long time ago and it is hard to line these teams up now. The Swans seem to be building into the latter part of the season, but have at times struggled to finish matches off and will need four quarters to beat the Roos. Two weeks off, with a bye and wet weather, might hurt that sense of momentum, but with a fully fit outfit they have proven capable this year. The Kangaroos were far too strong for Muswellbrook and will not be as flat for this as they were against Gunnedah before that. They have an accomplished midfield but are a complete unit, and will be well prepared to tough it out for the full hundred minutes against the Swans in what should be a tight contest. The defending Premiers need to win this to stengthen their claims for third place on the ladder, but I wonder if they have a clear avenue to goal and query their ability to kick a winning score against the stronger teams.
THE DRUM: Kangaroos by one kick.
GAME 2: Gunnedah Bulldogs v Muswellbrook Cats
Somewhat of a dead rubber, with neither team able to progress into the finals this year, I expect both teams will come out and play some open and enjoyable football. The Cats can play hard but can play pretty as well, and despite the score I have been told they were not really too far adrift of the Kangaroos last week. Travel is a concern for them here, but I would still expect them to have a dig at the Bulldogs and look to avoid another winless season. I hope they can, as they don't deserve to end the season with no choccies. Gunnedah on the other hand are very capable, and were ruthless when throwing caution to the wind against the Kangaroos a few weeks ago now. They will create plenty of chances here with a strong midfield, especially if the game is an open one, but will need to convert better than they did last week or risk facing a serious challenge from the Cats. I can see Sammy Naismith running amok across the centre and half forward and kicking a bag, but can see Stu McAdam doing the same for the Cats. Around the park though I would expect Gunnedah to pack too many punches for the Cats at Wolsley and win what should be an entertaining match.
THE DRUM: Bulldogs by eight goals.
Last Modified on 11/08/2010 14:02