Coolaroo host the University Cougars in this week’s Allied Pickfords game of the round to be played at Gold Park.
Coolaroo currently sit in second position and are riding a superb winning streak at present getting the job done in their past 12 encounters. University on the other hand have had a rollercoaster season dropping to as low as 7th position early in the season before regaining form and moving clear of Warwick and Highfields over the last month to secure the last finals position.
The last time these teams met Coolaroo came away with a hard fought 20 point victory at Baker Street Oval. University held the lead at half time of this match and were only 4 points down going into the final change before the Roos kicked into top gear during the last term. Coolaroo power forwards Miles Grice & Michael Casey booted 11 goals between them in this encounter and will looking for a repeat performance today.
University will welcome back inspirational leader Al Reilly this week. Reilly gives the Cougars more structure with his contested marking ability in the forward line while club veteran and Holman medallist Paul Kupke made a classy return to the senior ranks last week and will be considered for selection again today.
For the Roos Tom Rudolph has had a stellar season to date and is considered amongst the favourites for this year’s Holman Medal. Rudolph has played the majority of his football deep in attack over the last month nursing a minor groin strain. No doubt Coolaroo coach Nick Barker will be planning Rudolph’s return to the midfield either this week or in the first week of finals as Rudolph gives the Roos consistent contented ball wins from the engine room and is arguably the best clearance player on the Downs at present.
Also keep an eye out for inform University midfielder / wingman Chris Davis who has returned to his late 2011 form after an injury plagued 2012 season. All in all a game both clubs will be extremely eager to perform well in and carry winning form into the first week of the finals.
In other games the Highfields Lions host the South Toowoomba Bombers, Warwick are at home against the Goondiwindi Hawks and the Tigers are on the road to take on the Dalby Swans. The Lockyer Valley finished the 2012 season off on a massive high with their thrilling 2 point victory last week and have the bye this weekend.
Last Modified on 17/08/2012 10:59
