Two neighbouring clubs, the battle for territory, prestige and perhaps just the joy of winning this one above all other!
In times past there have been player counts during games, big finals match ups, player recruitment battles and general suspicion between these two, no game is sweeter to win nor more painful to lose.
The Bombers host this game and enter searching for a win. At a time when rainfall has raised the hopes of farmers, many are spending hours in the paddock rather than training track. Evan Whillas has a persistent leg issue, but otherwise the Bombers are looking strong. They have competed well this season, but are yet to break through for the first win. Jason Henderson is in wonderful form, in ruck or on the ball, forming a great partnership with Robert Holmes. Simons Webbs mobility and the leg speed and skill of Dion Pittaway and returning Braden Holmes will be important. Sadly for the Bombers, big Anthony "Kouta" has moved on, what a difference he could have been this week.
The Hawks machine had their colours lowered last week by thirteen goals, what! These boys are usually dishing that sort of margin out, not receiving it, so what will be the response. Coach Dillon Montgomerie will have a quick refocus and reset for this one. Still some players to return, Brent Bascombe is a key. Welcome back Joe Danis last week, and he will be better for the run, Monties Tyson, Kirk and Dillon are fit and skillful, Derick Freeman is in outstanding form, versatile enough to play forward or back with devastating effect. Nick Schumann and Damien Johnson complete a great backline. The Hawks generally share the goals around, which makes it hard to match, but would dearly love that key forward option, both Brent Bascombe and Aiden Whitford will fill this role in future games.
The Hawks will start favourite, particularly with the onset of seeding, but this game could well be close, everyone lifts for this one!
Last Modified on 08/05/2013 17:42