COBURG has the daunting challenge of trying to topple reigning premier and VFL powerhouse Geelong if it is to keep its slim finals chances alive this Sunday, writes Alison Neyland.
Coburg has the daunting challenge of trying to topple reigning premier and powerhouse Geelong if it is to keep its slim finals chances alive this Sunday.
The Tigers began the year strongly with a win over Sandringham and comprehensive victory over Essendon.
However, the Tim Clarke-coached team does not resemble the side that looked finals bound – both in personnel and form – with the long term loss of Chris Knights and the elevation to the senior side of Aaron Edwards and Nathan Foley.
On the other hand, Geelong is going from strength to strength and, despite numerous injuries, the side mainly due to their very strong contingent of VFL listed players are taking all before them.
The Cats sit only percentage off top spot, with unheralded players such as Robert Condy (29 disposals in the Cats comprehensive victory over Port last week), Andrew Banjammin, who stepped up in the absence of Dawson Simpson to have 30 hit-outs and livewire Mark Corrigan.
A positive for the Tigers is the return from injury of Shane Tuck, a wonderful player at AFL level but an absolute standout in the VFL. Experienced trio of Robin Nahas (10 disposals last week), Sam Lonergan ( 17 ) and Ricky Petterd (6) need to get on board with Tuck if the side is to have any chance in causing an upset.
The Cats have an embarrassment of riches and welcome back Josh Cowan, as well as ruckman Nathan Vardy, midfielder Jordan Schroder and underrated defender Cam Eardley.
They will miss however, Josh Caddy who was best afield last week with 30 disposals and has been recalled to the senior team.
Despite the difference in ladder positions, there will be several mouth watering match-ups with Jake Batchelor likely to go to Josh Walker and the battle between Tuck and Troy Selwood worth the price of admission alone.
Eardley will likely play on Maric and the Tigers need to find someone with the pace to go with electric forward Jaxon Barham.
In a match that which will define the Tigers year, Geelong appears to be too strong and should win comfortably.
Last Modified on 28/06/2013 11:55