Footscray hosts Sandringham at Simonds Stadium today in the ABC TV game from 1pm.
Nick Cinatar previews this Round 6 clash.
Sandringham came from 20 points down at three quarter time to defeat Essendon by nine points last round. In what was their first game at Trevor Barker Beach Oval this season, the Zebras showed tenacity in wet conditions.
Arryn Siposs had a big last quarter with a crucial goal while Seb Ross (32 disposals) returned to the team after a stint with St Kilda. Jason Holmes was decisive in the ruck while Brodie Murdoch (13 disposals) was relentless in the midfield with seven tackles.
Newly formed Footscray, affiliated with the Western Bulldogs, lost by two points against North Ballarat. The Dogs trailed by 26 points at quarter time and inaccuracy hurt the team, kicking 8.17.
Fletcher Roberts, Brett Goodes, Mitch Wallis and Daniel Giansiracusa (two goals) were named amongst the best.
Both teams have had solid starts to the season, but the Zebras’ come from behind win over Essendon will give them the confidence to win again. The Dogs will be looking to return to the form that gave them a 166-point win over Bendigo and a 117-point win over Richmond.
Sandringham has lost key defenders Cameron Shenton and Josh Bruce to St Kilda’s list for their clash against Carlton. Tom Simpkin and Shane Savage return after playing with St Kilda, while Tom Lee comes back after a week off.
Defenders Dylan Roberton and Simpkin will get the pivotal match ups on Dogs’ forwards Ayce Cordy and Jack Redpath, while Peter Shakallis will have to negate the in-form Jarrad Grant.
Both teams boast a strong midfield with most notably Sandringham’s Adam Cockie, Myke Cook, Seb Ross and Yilber Zijai having impressive starts to the season. For the Dogs, Clay Smith, Mitch Wallis and the experienced Brett Goodes have been consistent performers.
The Zebras’ forward line has been damaging, especially Trent Dennis-Lane who is an equal leader in the goal kicking leader board after five rounds. The talented Lee will team up with Beau Maister and Spencer White as the tall forwards. Sam Dunell has been the instrumental figure in the forward line, but the Zebras will miss the in-form Arryn Siposs to St Kilda.
The Dogs will need to hold down Sandringham’s important goal kickers and Michael Talia may be the answer against Lee. Sam Darley could get the match-up on goal sneak Dennis-Lane.
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Photo: Dave Savell
Last Modified on 10/05/2014 09:09