Howdy Footy faithful! There's only one more round until the Canada long weekend, so teams will be looking to go into the break with a win. I've been a bit soft the past few rounds, so I thought I'd start to give a little 'tough love' when it comes to my thoughts and predictions. And here we go!
Toronto Dingos v Toronto Rebels
This week’s Friday night matchup pits the Dingo’s up against the Rebels. With second against third, this has the potential to be the match of the round!
Both sides had interesting results last week. The Dingo’s were lucky to pull the rabbit out of the hat in round 4 against the Swans. While the Rebels were average at best in their big match up against the Hawks.
I’m not particularly sold on the Rebels as I’m not sure if their contenders or pretenders. Last weeks they played some absolutely pathetic footy in the first quarter, which put them on the back foot for the rest of the game. Who knows how they will start this weekend.
Fitness could be key if it’s going to be a warm evening, as both sides have a solid line up of veterans and I’m not sure their pension plans will cover fatigue. Going to have to stay with the Dingo’s on this one, Rebels just don’t look like they can compete with top of the table sides.
Phantom prediction Dingos by 18 points, with ‘Pensioner' Stewy kicking 4
Broadview Hawks v Central Blues
The Hawks will be coming off a solid victory against the Rebels, which has put them back in the hunt and charge up the ladder. Were as the Blues went down to the Gargoyles in one of the ugliest games of footy most have seen this year.
Now on paper this one looks to be an easy 4 points for the ‘Hawk City’ faithful. And I really can’t see a way the Blues can get up here. While they have been competitive, their only win did come against the worst team in the league.
Game day should provide some interesting battles with the Blues having to find a way to contain the likes of Dullard, Royle and the ‘Shuttsy’ boys. While the Hawks will have to keep their eye on ‘Are you taller than a 5th grader’ Willsy, who slots back into the side after a week off and the Doc.
This is one of the easier pick for the ‘Ghost who Walks’ as I see the likes of big Dullard and the Shuttleworths seeing the Hawks across the line.
Phantom prediction Hawks by 4 goals.
Toronto Eagles v High Park Demons
This should be an interesting matchup, as the out of form Dees take on a high flying Eagles outfit.
Now, while the Eagles sit atop the league ladder I still question how good they are. They haven’t really beaten anybody yet and until they do, I will still question their squad. Last week they pumped the Cat’s, but that looks like a given for most clubs this season. Up forward the Hamburgular is going along his merry way and he now has a new assistant in Runnalls, who’s clearly never seen a handball.
One thing I have noticed though, is their lack of rotations from the bench compared to the other top teams. While other clubs find opportunities to rest their key players, the Eagles keep them on the field. I guess they think their key players don’t need any rest, should be interesting later in the season.
For the Dee’s their still in the mix, sitting 2-2 for the season. I suspect they will be looking to get back into the W column after two straight loses. They started the season strong, but certainly didn’t look convincing against the Roos last week. Big Floppy returns this week after missing a game due to some stupidity. And while his ability overhead for such a big man is very questionable, he’s still a reliable in.
Personally I think the Eagle's rely way too heavily on a few key players, who they don’t seem to rest at all. The Dee’s look to have younger, fitter bodies and should be able to outlast the ever aging Eagles.
Phantom prediction Dee’s by 15 points.
Guelph Gargoyles v Ottawa Swans
Now to the one game that will be played the following week in their annual Canada Day match. Both sides are sitting with equal points on the ladder, with the Goyles only above on percentage.
Guelph will be looking for their second straight win and maintain that they serious contenders this year, and taking the long drive to the capital and steeping over the Swans will certainly be an expectation.
The Swans have had an interesting couple of weeks. Firstly sneaking a win over the Dee’s, their first at Humber, then going down to the Dingo’s at home after some controversial circumstances.
Will it even be competitive? Well the Swans have been battling the past few weeks, while the Gargoyles are looking to gain momentum. I’m not quite sure who’s going to take the points as a major element on who wins will depend on whether the Guelph is able to field a full list.
Phantom prediction Gargoyles by 4 goals, 6 if Matthews is back up forward.
Etobicoke Roos v Hamilton Wildcats
Another cracker jack game of footy.. Ummm, Doubtful. I can’t really see exciting footy from these 2 clubs as they are struggling to get their season going.
This will no doubt be a really big game for both clubs. The Hamilton are really struggling for numbers this year, and it appears the Roo’s aren’t much better off at the moment as both struggle to field sides.
I have no idea how long ago it was since the Roo’s had 1 win after four rounds of footy, but you’d doubt they have lost that much pride in their club to go into the break 1-4-1. If they do, it will be a long season for them to pick back up some serious form. Same could be said for Hamilton, who if they drop this one could right off any chance of a finals appearance. Last week showed they are still cellar dwellers, nothing else to say except, apparently manning up is an option for players at the club. Looks as if their battle with Ottawa in round 11 could be a battle for the wooden spoon.
So who will take the 4 points? Well seeing as the Cat’s have trouble playing any sort of defence, you’d have to say the Roos should walk out of Mohawk in the winner’s circle and probably by a large margin.
Phantom prediction Roos by 10 goals
WOMEN
Hamilton Wildcats v Etobicoke Kangaroos
With both sides sitting equal on the women's ladder, both will be looking for the 4 points and distance themselves in second position.
The Roos are coming off a tough lost last week and will be looking to rebound this weekend against the Cats. Expect a solid performance from the Edwards, Betancourt and the Amaral sisters.
The ladies from Hamilton are once again coming off a huge victory over the Swans and are the biggest threat to the undefeated Dees. Kendra Heil and Candace Kwan have been exceptional for the Cats so far this season and will be ready to continue this weekend.
Phantom prediction Hamilton by 3 goals
High Park Demons v Central Blues
Now this one has the potential to be either a heavily one sided game or an unexpected upset. Both sides are having completely different season so far.
The Lady Demons are undefeated so far this season, but haven’t dominated every game they’ve played. Loughnane continues to be a standout in the women’s division and it was nice to see a large number of contributors on the score sheet.
The Blues have had an atrocious start to the season, with some tough losses. I’d expect to see Tong, Allen, Santillana and Billing’s to step it up this round, as the ladies will be looking to get their first win of the season.
Should be more competitive than their previous meeting, but the Dee’s should be too strong.
Phantom prediction Dee’s by 14 points
Once again I’ve graced you all with my enlightening and precise predictions for the upcoming round. Remember to follow my thoughts in real time, at @FootyPhantom over the weekend. Here’s to footy!
The Ghost who Handballs
Last Modified on 22/06/2013 11:45