By AFLDD Media | 20th September
#AFLDDGF
Under 14 AFL Darling Downs Juniors Grand-Final
Coolaroo V Dalby Swans, 12:30pm at Rockville Oval, Tor Street Toowoomba
Listen to the Grand Final PodCast, click here
AFL Darling Downs Media preview the Under 14 McDonald's Shield Grand-Final, everything you need to know from players to watch, key statistics and the Macca's five key points.
It will be another cracking game, this time in the Macca's Shield where the minor premiers face the third placed Dalby Swans in this years decider. Both sides have numerous stars but none more so than Coolaroo's Brock Aston and Swannies Tom Matthews.
But first, the last time these Grand-Finalists met was back in Round 18 and the Roos bounced to an impressive 48point victory.
Zandah Rissman and Thomas Dearnaley were the Roo's best, both flew under the radar and ripped the Swans apart. Dearnaley also booted three individual goals, the Roos stamped their authority in the second and third quarters.
For Dalby, superstar Tom Matthews was kept quiet while Samuel Daff and Henry Burt were the best Swans. Dalby lacked rotations and were hoping for more of an input from other key players. Coolaroo also dominated the previous clash getting up by 71points.
Coolaroo are ranked third for attack and second for defence, while the Swans are the number one attacking team in 2013 and ranked third for defence.
Key Players
Coolaroo - Brendan Shelton: Shelton has taken his game to a new level this season and is a key to the Roo's success. He wasn't outstanding in the previous two clashes against the Swans but after his impressive season with the Crows, he will want to stamp his mark on this Grand-Final.
Dalby - Tom Matthews: McDonald's Shield Best and Fairest player, Matthews has by far been the best player and at only thirteen years of age a lot rests on his shoulders. He is a complete footballer and no doubt Dalby would love two or three of him. His input will be important.
McDonald's Shield Five Key Points
1. Dalby can't rely on Tom Matthews, other star players in Daff, McVeigh, Farquharson, Gaur and co will need to step up on this big day.
2. Shelton must play forward, at times Coolaroo have lacked a key target and when Shelton goes forward no-one can match up on him.
3. The outside run of Gillespie (Dalby) and Aston (Coolaroo) will be important and who ever can get into the most space and get the footy, will give their side the advantage.
4. Always put your head over the footy!
5. Another game, same preparation is key, as young players the key is to not let the occassion take away from your role.
Unable to make it to the game, well we have the answer to follow the game live. McDonald's Shield Grand Final LIVE Match Centre. Click on that link to follow the game live.
Photo: left to right - Macen Allen (Dalby) and Brock Aston (Coolaroo) hold the Cup up for Grabs in Saturday's decider.
Last Modified on 09/10/2013 17:38
