Game 1: New England Nomads v Narrabri Eagles
The Drum's faith in the Nomads was restored last week, as they became the only team to lower the colours of the all-conquering Kangaroos last week. The Drum wonders if the Kangaroos were responsible for that loss or if the Nomads will get the credit, but at this stage will run with the latter. The Eagles popped the defibrillator onto their season last week with a strong win against the Cats, which The Drum suspects to be fair form on the road. The whispers around the Eagles this year is that their run has been key to their performances, so they might just soar on the wide open spaces of Bellevue. Nomads are, by nature, also fans of a wander, and traditionally are very tough to beat at home. The Drum wonders if the westerners have ever won in the seat of higher learning - a feat that would really stamp them as contenders this year. The one query with the Nomads is the semester break. They might not be as dependant on students as they once were, but this still has potential to hurt. The Drum suspects the skeleton of the Nomads will stay strong, and Meehan will stitch up some sinew to get the job done. With the Nomads wagon on the roll, the Eagles are liable to become road kill for mine.
The Drum: Nomads by five goals.
Game 2: Muswellbrook Cats v Inverell Saints
These two are proving to be the enigmas of the League, with the Cats looking set to launch into the second half after breaking their duck a few matches ago. The Saints likewise looked gone for all money but have bounced back as a proud Club would. On polar opposites of the geographics of the League, the Saints will have a long trip to make on Saturday. A good drink on the way home, but only if the job is done. Justin Pay dodged a bullet at the tribunal midweek, which will lift the Sainters spirits. But the Cats are no push overs this year, and would be expected to present strongly at home. These two are the League's best exponents of the physical game, and the Cats are likely to match the Saints well in that vein. A bruising encounter can be expected, but over four tough quarters The Drum will give the Cats a third chance before sending them back to the hurdles.
The Drum: Cats by four goals.
Game 3: Gunnedah Bulldogs v Tamworth Swans
The reverse tie for this match saw the Dogs convincing winners over an underwhelming Swans outfit. The Dogs have toughed out enough points to put themselves well in the finals mix, whilst the Swans will be needing a victory here to keep within reach of a fifth place berth. That fact will not be lost on Gary Harriott's flock this week, and they should be well inspired to travel to face the Dogs. The host would have taken a lot of confidence from their narrow loss against the Saints, heading to the Sapphire City well undermanned and acquitting themselves well in the process. There might be some bruised canines around the Namoi though, with The Drum hearing that match was a physical one to boot. The Dogs should field a strong unit at home, and Big Sam in the ruck will give them every chance to have the first use of the ball. The Swans midfield, though, is right up with the League's best and should provide their side with plenty of the red nut. The Drum is not keen to write the Swans off, but on their form to date wonders if they can kick a score to win.
The Drum: Dogs by four goals.
Last Modified on 01/07/2011 06:54