3 May 2019
Very welcome early seasonal rainfall has touched most areas, particularly those closer to the coast. Attention is drawn to a new generation of cereals, legumes and oil seed, so what effect will long hours on the tractor have this week? Oval surfaces at most venues will be softer for the sprinkle from above, but little time for improved grass cover yet!
Hawks have signalled early intentions with two good wins, but quite a cramped space on the ladder thereafter. Early wins so important in setting up a season. Pink Day being commemorated at Kyancutta and Social Clubs in full swing at all venues, but football business to be taken care of first!
Central Eyre vs Wudinna United at Kyancutta
Central Eyre host the Magpies for their first derby encounter for the year, first match of 2019 at Kyancutta. Both sides enter with 1/1 win loss record, so the importance of match is heightened. Recent years has seen the Bulldogs regular winners in this clash as they have enjoyed a golden era of success. The derbies are usually much closer given the extra local pride at stake, and the improved 2019 Magpies likely to challenge closely here. Both clubs still trying the settle their sides. Fridge Wagner has moved from Media commitments/ commentary box to the ‘Dog’s head coach, Wiley Coyote Fox and league legend Ryan Du Bois takes the helm at the Magpies.
Always so much to like about the way Centrals team together and play for each other, dangerous on every line. Big Tasman Fitzgerald has kicked ten in the first two weeks and looms large as the go to target. Fast and classy mid fielders Jesse Stringer, Jake Sampson, Clint Winter ensure plenty of supply. Big Kano Sampson marshalls a rebounding defence, Brodi Grocke and Jackson Joyce run and carry critical to fast Bulldogs transitions to attack. Welcome back Hayden Heath and Ty Mc Kenna, although Ty missed last week.
Wudinna United have recruited well in the off season and present as the big improvers for 2019, a big test here on just how far they have come. Great inclusions, Izaac Boylan, Cody Boylan, Ian Jericho, Jack Lange, Ricky Seal (and Jonty Seal when he has recovered from injury), Tyson Jackson back onshore. Plenty of help for evergreens Neil Seaman, Remi North and Matt Greatbatch. Ongoing development and improvement in youngsters Tom Dupree and Adam Jericho. The side is still settling best playing positions, but the lift is clearly evident in the first two weeks of competition.
Centrals at home always a tough nut to crack for any side, the key will be - do the Magpies have enough scoring avenues to kick a winning score -14/15 goals?, as the “Dogs certainly do! No quarter surrendered here and likely to be close right to the end.
Bulldogs 1 – 10
West Coast Hawks vs Western Districts at Piednippie
A measure of how far the Western Districts have improved is here and now! The high fying Hawks at Piednippie. This is the third of three consecutive home matches at Piednippie to start the season after a program shuffle, so the West Coasters will be keen to keep an in tact record at the top of the table. Tigers have caused concern for the Hawks in the past, zone and chip style frustrating the open Hawks run and carry. Both sides have new recruits on show, so will be looking forward to the contest.
Hawks have former star player, EP representative, Mortlock Coach Jason Mc Evoy taking over as coach, freeing Mark Dolling up to concentrate his energy on dominating games. Master tactician, club, league and EP legend Scotty Feltus stays on as coach for the Tigers.
West Coast welcome Jack Burton and Jess Kenny, both huge performers last start, Jack winning the Joe Day Medal. Cameron Montgomerie’s speed and leaping around the forward line makes him all but impossible to counter, 11 goals to date and leading the league. Mark Dolling expected back this week, Dylan Kelsh in Mail Medal type form. Fast rebounding backline, headed by Jake Mc Evoy, Derick Freeman then the poise and guile of Kirk and Tyson Montgomerie. Dylan Montgomerie prolific around the middle, speed of Joe Mc Innis and talent everywhere.
Big pick ups at the Tigers include EP Rep - Broadie Chandler, tough as nails Callum Cook returning, very much missed last week, the skilful Bredon Smart, down from Blues FC and providing mid field strength. Derek Williams is a strong midfielder from Wudinna United, he will give great value as he settles at Tigerland. Charlie Williams has burst out of the blocks in 2019, his leg speed telling, reliable veterans Scott Feltus and Shannon Horgan fit and rearing to enhance their already lofty reputations. Andrew Miller and Damon King O’Loughlin the key targets up forward, look out for huge seasons from Josh Horgan and Zane Montgomerie.
At full strength the Tigers will worry the Hawks, as they do any side. The Hawks capitalise so well on any turnovers and thrive when the game is open and fast. Expect a battle of wits as coaches adapt game styles, countering each other. The West Coast Hawks at home always a tough nut to crack however.
Hawks 30 - 40
Elliston vs Wirrulla at Elliston
The reigning premier’s first match at home for 2019, opening the newly renovated club house and much pride at stake. Long road trip for the Bombers who will be one club heavily affected by tractor time. Roosters off season much documented, but moving on with plenty to play for. Last encounter between these two was the Preliminary Final 2018, where the Bombers gave the much fancied Elliston a huge hurry up, leading well into the last quarter prior to a final three goal burst from the Roosters that propelled them towards the 2018 premiership. Elliston won by 17 points that day.
Roosters have lost many of that 2018 side and the Bombers need this match to ensure their season stays on track, this will be an enthralling match up. Daryl (Mini) Lawrie retains the head coaching role at Wirrulla and Tony (Butch) Tree takes over control at Elliston. Damp conditions throughout the week, so the first winter like conditions expected for players.
The Roosters welcome Matt Williams back home, also Shaun Roche in. Plenty of talent remains at Roosterland, and they play local conditions so well, always! Glen Tonkin dangerous forward, with Andrew Mc Leod elusive a bit further out. Gorn Tree travelling home from Adelaide has started the season well, either as an inside mid or a higher defender. Matthew (Biccie) Bascomb back last week lending a hand to the ever reliable Ross Bascomb. Chad Fleming returning to seniors last start also and enjoying playing in son Harvey’s first A Grade match. Steve Paul is a champion, strong leadership on and off the ground.
The Bombers challenged the Hawks for long periods last week, but found hitting the scoreboard difficult. Simon Webb the key target but does need help. Stars Ryan Watson and Mitchell Gum stand out week in and week out, big games needed here too. The strong tackling and physical presence of Lachy Ross was outstanding last week, he has started 2019 extremely well, Taylor Schmucker provides great value for the club, Waylon Drew is fast and confident to carry the footy, Rowan Chester a beacon in defence. Ollie Mc Callum another in great form, providing strong rebound and pressure at the contest. The loss of Mackenzie Best will be felt as he returns to college duty.
Two well matched sides here with plenty to play for. Elliston will know how important home matches are, personnel easier to come by and a chance to consolidate a top four position. The Bombers know this match is a simple must win! They play Elliston oval well, no fears there, and need all hands on deck to gain that valuable first win for 2019. Don’t expect that this match will be decided until very late.
Bombers 10 - 20
Last Modified on 05/05/2019 20:42