The Box Hill Hawks will take on the Casey Scorpions this Saturday in the Round 8 ABC TV match of the week at Box Hill City Oval. The contest will be important for both sides - currently sitting in sixth and second respectively on the Peter Jackson VFL Bailey Ladders ladder, and wanting to consolidate their position before the midyear State game break. Both clubs face a double break due to having bye’s scheduled either side of the State League Match.
Box Hill enters this weekend having built some extra confidence after a strong 36 point win over the Frankston Dolphins. Hawks coach Damian Carroll explained his side did not have it all their own way against the Dolphins.
“I think the Dolphins are a good side who put us under pressure and we were fortunate to break it open only late in the game.”
The Box Hill Hawks currently sit in sixth place with three wins and three losses for Season 2012. Carroll believes his side has a lot of room to grow, but remains optimistic for the upcoming twelve rounds.
“We would all love to be sitting where Port Melbourne is but the reality is the competition is very even. We certainly have not been consistent in our performances this season which has been disappointing but there have been some positives as well.”
Carroll holds this week’s opposition, both team and coach, in high regard.
“They play well as a team for each other, like all teams that Brett Lovett coaches.
“Their VFL players have been really consistent with their effort and performances. They have won a number of close games so they certainly fight matches out,” Carroll said.
“We need to ensure we come and play at our best (which we are confident of) to give ourselves a chance.”
The Casey Scorpions approach their Round 8 contest after compressively beating Geelong by 46 points and seizing second spot on the ladder.
Scorpions Coach Brett Lovett was impressed by the depth of his side last weekend, amassing twelve different goal scorers.
“On Saturday we had a very good forward line with the addition of three very exciting Melbourne players – Jack Watts, Liam Jarrah and Jack Fitzpatrick. However, I think the reason why we were so productive in our forward line was because we used the ball really well.”
Melbourne new recruit, Tom Couch, has been a key component in the Casey Scorpions recent success. Couch previously played with Collingwood in their VFL team and has brought a mature body and mind to the young Scorpions side.
“Thomas Couch is very effective at winning the contested football. He has a tough, strong body and a good appetite to compete. If he keeps performing the way he is, he should be given the opportunity to play AFL footy.”
Casey sustained three serious injuries on Saturday to Wade Lees, Jordan Gysberts and Jack Viney. The loss of these players will no doubt influence the structure of the side.
“We will definitely loose three guys to jaw injuries from last weekend’s game. We will have to see how other guys pull up from the contest but we should be getting a few guys back from previous injuries as well as a few players from Melbourne such as Brad Green,” Lovett said.
“Being aligned to an AFL side means that our squad is constantly changing and all team members must adjust and play the individuals role asked of them.”
Photo: Morgan Hancock
Last Modified on 09/05/2012 18:21