Seasons could depend on round 13 outcomes and none more so than Goondiwindi and South Toowoomba matches.
With all matches returning to the traditional Saturday afternoon time slot, all three games should attract massive interest from across the region. The toughest decision for the weekend may just be which venue to spectate at.
Weekend weather forecast thanks to weatherzone.com.au
Kratzke Oval - 16degrees with a 21km/h SW and clear
Gold Park - 15degrees with a 20km/h SW and clear
Reddies Oval - 18degrees with a 16km/h WSW and clear
Coolaroo V Goondiwindi @ Gold Park, 3:00pm
Saturday 12th July
IMPACT OF THE GIANTS, THE KEY
The navy Roo's forward strength will be an issue for at times an undersized defensive unit, with the likes of Green, Rudolph and swingman Michael Casey the Hawks may not have the man-power to go with.
Both midfields are very similar in class, boasting a number of bigger bodies and elite midfielders and the two premier rucks in the competition in Troy Millard (Goondiwindi) and Corin Sankey (Coolaroo)
Maybe the likes of Jardine, Scoble and Townsend may just be too much for the Roo's defence. For AFLDD media it is a battle of the rucks, the ruckman who ever can make an impact on the scoreboard and work hard defensively will give his side the upper hand.
Sankey is known for his ability to push forward and kick the long bombs, while Millard loves sitting in the space and clogging the forward fifty of opposition sides.
However the influence of the next batch of rising stars will be important to each sides chances in this match. The navy Roo's trio of Green, Mason and Miller will be important as will the McNaughton brothers and Naismith for the high flying Hawks.
The influence these young players have, as well as the impact of the giants will be the key to success in this match.
Last 5 meetings between the two sides:
Roo's, Roo's, Roo's, Roo's, Roo's
Random Stat: The last time Goondiwindi defeated Coolaroo was in Round 9, 2010. Goondiwindi ran out a physical contest 14 point victors at Riddles Oval. GH 10.15 (75) to C 10.1 (61)
Highfields Lions Vs. South Toowoomba @ Kratzke Oval, 2:30pm
Saturday 12th July
CAN LIGHTNING STRIKE TWICE
This game resemble a similar situation for both clubs on the exact same round in 2013. Both sides were sitting in similar positions, South Toowoomba on the fringe of finals and Highfields trying to keep their finals dreams alive.
Highfields prevailed in that contest by 20points and ended the Bombers finals hopes.
Fast-forward 12months and Highfields will be hoping for lightning to strike twice at Kratzke Oval. Coach Grice and his Lions still have slim chance of a maiden finals appearance in their short history but if they are to play finals this year, this is a must win game.
All Highfields need to go with their classy midfield and strong defensive unit is another key forward to help out Coach/Player Miels Grice. He has been a lone ranger in 2014, single handily carry the Lions through a number of contests.
Last time these two sides met was back in round 3 where a first quarter blitz of 9-goals to the Bombers saw the game over at quarter-time, with the Lions unable to get back into the contest.
South Toowoomba are coming with an impressive 35-goal victory and starting to build momentum towards a possible finals campaign. The loss of big man Dan McPhee hasn't seem to hinder the Bombers as their next generation have taken their games to the next level.
Highfields will however be keen to end their 5 game losing streak and will be keen to give the Lions faithful a victory at Kratzke Oval.
Warwick Redback's Vs. Lockyer Demons @ Reddies Oval, 2:30pm
Saturday 12th July
DAUNTING TASK AWAITS DEMONS
One of regions most daunting tasks this season awaits Lockyer Valley when they travel to the home of the Redback's, Reddies Oval.
Everyone is expecting a big win to the Redback's who sit atop the Allied Pickford's Cup ladder but don't right the Demons off just yet. Lockyer Valley boast a number of very, very good youngsters coming through that will be the key driving force behind a successful Demons outfit.
The likes of Hegarty, Hicks, Cohen-Campbell, Schroen and co all boast impressive records and may just surprise the Redback's. Hegarty is a future leader of the football club and is the strong defender the Demons have always needed.
Cohen-Campbell and Schroen are quick outside players but don't mind the odd contested possession or two. Hicks have taken his game to another level this season and if he can put four quarters together, he will be hard to match up on and go with.
If this quartet of Demons players can have a high impact on the contest, then you just never know.
Warwick will look to the likes of the usual stars Iles and Millard but will need support from the next generation Reddies along with an even team performance if they are to defeat the dogged Demons.
Last Modified on 15/07/2014 12:58
