Last time these two sides met they fought out an epic battle in round 11, with Williamstown coming up short by 13-points. This time will be no different. On Saturday, Williamstown and North Ballarat will go head to head in a second versus third clash that will shape the landscape of the Peter Jackson VFL finals for 2011.
Brendan Lucas previews the upcoming clash.
This time the Roosters will have a home ground advantage at Eureka Stadium in Ballarat, and with a four game winning streak the Roosters will prove once again to be formidable opponents to topple.
Williamstown on the other hand have a five game winning streak, with their most recent loss coming from the Roosters in round 11. However, six rounds on, and two games clear in second position, the Seagulls will be a tougher opponent this time around.
Williamstown’s mixture of youth up forward will again prove to be potent, as the likes of Patrick Veszpremi, Zephaniah Skinner, Matthew Panos, Jarrad Grant and Andrew Hooper (if the last two are not selected in the Western Bulldogs’ side), will give the Roosters some difficulties in defence. The group kicked nine goals between them last time and will play an important role.
The Roosters have also been extremely damaging throughout the season. With the likes of a tall, versatile, goal-kicking ruckman in Orren Stephenson, and Myles Sewell in the midfield, who was unlucky to not be drafted last season, the Roosters will be hard to beat around the stoppages and clearances.
In conjunction with the centre line, North Ballarat benefited from their potent small forwards Cruize Garlett and Bill Driscoll, who both played a telling factor last time these two sides met, with Driscoll kicking four. With Driscoll overseas, it might be Derick Micallef who steps into this role this week.
In defence, Roosters mature age recruit Cameron Richardson, who played a significant part in last years premiership, will again provide great run from defence and will set up the Roosters’ attack.
If Williamstown or the Roosters are two consolidate themselves as true contenders for this year’s premiership, a win from this clash will certainly give both sides confidence heading into the last month, and some much needed momentum come finals time.
The key will come from the opening bounce. Williamstown’s poor one goal to seven first quarter last time these sides met will certainly make it difficult if there is a repeat, so therefore a strong start is essential in order to remain in the contest.
Some of the questions that will arise are whether or not Williamstown will be able to cope with the Roosters pace? Despite having a home ground advantage, an average 3-3 record this year may not prove a factor.
Can the Roosters stop the versatile potent forward line of the Seagulls?
The Roosters had a resounding victory last week against the Coburg Tigers and cannot afford to get complacent so close to the finals.
In contrast, Williamstown were challenged last week against a strong Werribee Tigers outfit, and the contest this week will prove to be much more demanding.
Prediction: Roosters by 8 points
Last Modified on 30/07/2011 10:03