Only five teams remain undefeated after Round 2 of the AFL Sydney Premier Division competition with Manly-Warringah leading the way ahead of Sydney University, Western Suburbs, North Shore and UNSW/ES on percentage.
Campbelltown Blues have been impressive in parts but will be seeking their first win of the 2013 campaign against North Shore Bombers at Monarch Oval this weekend.
The Blues pushed defending premiers, UNSW/ES at every turn, only to fall short by 15 points at home last week. Matthew Withers has been most impressive in the first fortnight, along with the exciting Amua Parika. Matthew Edwins also adds class across the middle and half-forward.
They will continue to develop under Neil Brunton and look a more consistent unit in the early stages of this season.
North Shore have had some tough match-ups to start the season but have passed both with consummate ease. Last week they disposed of St George by 71 points- extending their lead at every break. Sam Carruthers is a class player and is sure to be a part of the representative season for AFL Sydney. He was well supported last week by Adrian Harry and Nick Todd.
This match is another true test for Campbelltown given North Shore’s ability to churn out a high level each week.
The AFL Sydney Match of the Week features two improved sides in the Illawarra Lions and Sydney University at North Dalton Park. Sydney University’s focus on recruiting and developing a stronger core has paid dividends with big wins in the first fortnight.
Last weekend, they disposed of Balmain by over ten goals. They had their swagger back under new coach, Tom Morrison. Max Carter was best for the Students in the win, with Bilal Taha also impressive after crossing from Western Suburbs in the off-season.
Illawarra were predicted by many to fall away but despite not winning a game in 2013, they showed good signs in their 31-point loss to Manly-Warringah. They stayed with the Wolves all day with Jeremy Daniher a clear best for the Lions with four goals. He was sorely missed last year by the Lions whilst he was overseas.
While showing signs of improvement, like Campbelltown, Illawarra will not want to fall behind the pack by losing their third straight game.
It is hard to pick a favourite at Picken Oval ahead of Western Suburbs’ clash with St George. St George have enjoyed the wood over the Magpies in the last couple of seasons but the black and white army would be buoyed by their loss-free start to the season.
Last week they disposed of Sydney Hills Eagles by a whopping 136 points. Levi Sands has put a smile on many faces since his move from Coffs Harbour with his work ethic and was rewarded with the Rising Star nomination for this round. Matt Eurell and the exciting Rory Miller each kicked six goals in the win.
St George on the flipside, are winless in 2013 and will see this as their chance to get a win on the board. They were disappointing against the Bombers. Michael Milner again gave a hearty effort while Declan Donohue and Pat McBride were amongst the best players again.
A salivating clash looms at the Village Green against two foes in UNSW/ES Bulldogs and UTS Bats. The two sides play a physical brand of football and always enjoy getting the win over the other that little bit more than usual. The day is even more significant for the Bulldogs who will unfurl their premiership flag.
The Bulldogs had a harder time than expected last week against the Blues. Matt Rawlinson was enigmatic in the centre and up forward with two goals and was ably supported by Henry Mason and Jeremy Kiel who is tougher than his blonde locks indicate.
UTS had to play catch up against Pennant Hills after falling behind by five goals at the opening change, and were never able to overturn the margin, losing by 22 points.
The goals were again shared by the Bats with veteran defender, Tom Steinfort and Andrew Morley best for the Bats.
Manly will play their first game at Weldon Oval in a twilight encounter against the seasoned Pennant Hills Demons.
Both sides got a win last week with Manly retaining top place on ladder with win over Illawarra. Hayden Washington kicked another four to take his season goal tally to double figures. Anthony Robertson and Angus Buncle are good disposers of the ball and will be relied upon against the steely Demons’ defence.
Pennant Hills registered their first win this season against UTS. Small forward, Ranga Ediriwickrama was a spark with six goals. Daniel Witt and the returning Matt Thomas were strong for the Demons and will need to be on their game again this week with Manly sure to be fired up for the challenge.
Some are calling the final game of the weekend the early battle for the wooden spoon against Balmain and Sydney Hills Eagles. Both sides will be keen to overturn such thoughts with a much-needed win after drubbings in their opening two matches.
Wayd Blackburn could hold his head high with his three goal effort for the Dockers last weekend. Matthew Round and big man, Selby Lee-Steere also both tried hard.
Sydney Hills were held to six goals by the Magpies. Aaron Savage and James Regan, with two goals were best for the once all-conquering Eagles.
Last Modified on 18/04/2013 09:48
