Easter festivities will be put aside this weekend as Sandringham will be looking to cement their position at the top of the table of the Peter Jackson VFL ladder when they take on the Coburg Tigers at Trevor Barker Oval this Sunday. While for many, this time of the year resembles an over-indulgence in numerous chocolate treats; for Coburg and Sandringham its business as usual in what is expected to be a mouth-watering clash between two traditional VFL sides as Mitchell Woods reports.
Currently touted as a serious premiership contender for season 2012, the Zebras have displayed significant ability to score quickly and heavily against opposition teams in recent weeks. The familiar notion of a ‘fast start’ has been a feature of the Zebra’s impressive form due to their willingness not to rely on one forward to single-handedly kick a winning score. The likes of Beau Wilkes, Sam Dunell and Cameron Shenton who appear to be sharing goal-scoring responsibility, have caused havoc for opposition teams who are finding it difficult to nullify their attacking prowess
Jackson Coleman, the son of former Fitzroy and Footscray champion Glenn, has also provided another option up forward for the Zebras. After turning his back on a promising cricket career, the youngster has improved on his defensive side of the game by increasing his ‘work rate’ and aiming to apply significant defensive pressure inside the forward 50. Coburg will have a challenge to conquer what appears to be a more cohesive and team-oriented Zebras side this year.
Coburg, who are currently just sitting inside the eight, showed glimpses of what they are capable of in last week’s defeat to Casey. After trailing by 32 points at half time last week, they stormed home in the third quarter to keep Casey goalless and eventually only go down by a goal at full-time. The third-quarter resurgence last week was inspired by a greater will to win the contested ball and apply significantly greater pressure on Casey.
Richmond listed players Jeromey Webberley and Matthew White were instrumental in the Tigers fight back last week and look for them to provide leg speed and a sense of ‘flare’ on Sunday. Their contribution will be vital in looking to supersede the Zebra’s ability to lock down opponents through their ‘zone’ or ‘defensive press’. Captain Nick Carnell and Matt Arnot were pivotal around the stoppages last week and the Tigers will be hoping for a repeat performance from both of their hard-bodied midfielders.
Will the Tigers be able to sustain their pressure and skill-level for the full four quarters on Sunday? Sandringham, on the other hand, is looking to emulate their early season form and send a statement to the rest of the competition. Can the Zebra’s win three on the trot and begin their charge, to once again, become a powerhouse of the Peter Jackson VFL competition? All will be revealed on Easter Sunday at 2:00pm
Prediction: Sandringham by 15 points
Last Modified on 06/04/2012 20:34