by Dale Shannon
A true test will face the Southern Mallee Giants as they aim for four wins in a row when they face an in-form Sea Lake Nandaly Tigers.
The Tigers lost their only game in round four and since then haven’t looked like losing another one. While the Giants have played good patches of footy against the ladder leaders in their 2 clashes, they will need to produce four quarters of high pressure and clean disposal if they are to give themselves a chance.
The Tigers have kicked 19 goals in each of the 2 previous games so there is an obvious starting point for the challengers. The Giants backline led by key position players Rory Shannon and Sam Weddell will again take the most dangerous forwards. However, deciding whom these players are is difficult as the goals are shared around every week. If it’s not Doering kicking goals, then Ryan will chip in, or Arentz, or Simon Weekley or Brad Collins – their supply is endless. This depth and flexibility is a strength not only in the forward line but through the midfield and backline as well.
Tom Summerhayes and Scott Weekley have been in terrific form and may need close attention by the Giants. One match up is a certainty, and that will be the battle between Luke Martin and Kain Robins. With arguably the best centre half back and centre half forward in the league lining up on each other, it is sure to be another great duel.
However, the Giants won’t want to be reliant on Robins and in their last win against Woomelang Lascelles they were able to find a number of avenues to goal. The Giants will lose 2 important players from this game, with Luke Mahony and Brock Orval both unavailable. The Giants will need to be at their best if they are to challenge the favoured Tigers.
In what may be shaping up to be Walpeup Underbool’s best chance for a win this season, they will host an out of form Ouyen United team.
After a great start to the season and knocking off the reigning premiers in round 4, injuries and form have cost the Demons important wins. They have now lost their last 3 games and will be looking to get back on the winners list to keep their top 2 chances alive.
The Demons will be hoping for the return of some of their senior players to add some experience and composure. There is no doubt they have plenty of talent within their younger players, however they need to be able to balance this with some leadership on the ground.
Players such as Tom Morrish and Jacob Grigg have been great for the Demons but cannot be expected to perform week in-week out, and need support from United’s match winners to get them over the line.
The Roos are also hoping to add some experience to the line up with Travis Latta and Jim Wakefield set to return after having to pull out last week, while Matt Palmer should also be available. Unfortunately Chris Lynch hurt his knee and is doubtful to get up for the game.
Shane Birss may get have someone follow him closely as he has been a shining light in an otherwise dim year for the Roos. He provides leadership and a great capacity to win the ball. He will be aided by the return of ruckman Brad Dabowski and if these 2 can combine to win clearances around the ground it may provide enough forward 50 entries to kick a winning score.
Last Modified on 27/06/2015 18:12
