Warwick V University
Fourth time lucky for Reddies?
Warwick will face the most experienced Grand-Final side in AFL Darling Downs history when they come up against the University Cougars.
The Redback's are coming into their fourth Grand-Final appearance and are yet to win a flag, however their opponents the Cougars are appearing in their 16th decider. University have claimed 11 flags (4 as Institute) across 15 deciders.
Warwick were once known as notoriously poor travellers, but with their 7 - 2 away record this season, it seems as if they have shaken that tag.
Both coaches have talked about the Grand-Final as just another match and they plan to do, what they have done all season. Well, unfortunately Grand-Finals are labelled 'funny things' and if the hardened of warriors can have everything turned upside down, on footballs biggest stage.
Grand-Finals are like no other game, any player or coach is involved in.
From the media hype, team selection, excitement around the club and the knowledge that you have a shot at the premiership cup. Routines are thrown out the window, these games are for the experienced and players that love the big stage.
Both sides boast big game and experienced players.
University will have close to 13 players who played in last years agonising defeat to Coolaroo and the experience of those players will be pivotal in the Cougars charge towards claiming a 12th flag. For Warwick past Holman Medallists Brendan Iles and Kurt Millard will be important as will young-gun Tim Tate.
Tate's exposure to high stake games previously will be important across half-back, with the Redback's liking to slingshot from half-back in their attacking raids.
However, going forward won't be as easy as normal, as they face the number one defensive unit of the past two seasons.
Led by co-captain Cory Balnaves, the University defensive group have been outstanding again this season. On average the Cougars have 49.6 points scored against them per game. Warwick isn’t too far behind in the defensive side of the game, with an average 58.7 points per game scored against them.
Both teams have named a squad of 26 in the lead up to the game and with the forecast of possible showers, this may sway each sides coaching staff with the final make up of 22.
Off-season recruitment has been a massive tool in the Redback's success this season with their coaching staff identifying key areas they need to bolster. Adding a few seasoned campaigners to their playing roster has increased their depth.
University also recruited well, with the most notable, rookie Aaron Howard who came from a basketball background.
With three previous match ups in season 2014, both sides wouldn't have much to hide from each other. Winning the premiership flag is never an easy task, by reaching the Grand-Final both sides have proven they are very good sides.
To win the 2014 flag will take a contribution by every player, Grand-Finals aren't for passengers and must be played in the moment.
PREVIOUS FIVE ENCOUNTERS
QF, 2014: Warwick 13.16 (94) def. University 7.14 (56)
Rd14, 2014: University 9.16 (70) def. Warwick 8.9 (57)
Rd4, 2014: Warwick 15.10 (100) def. University 7.9 (51)
Rd7, 2013: University 18.11 (119) def. Warwick 7.10 (52)
Rd12, 2012: University 14.14 (98) def. Warwick 6.4 (41)
MATCH DAY - DIVISION 1 GRAND FINAL
Warwick Redback's V University Cougars
2:30pm bounce
Saturday 20th September, 2014
Rockville Oval
Last Modified on 20/09/2014 18:05
