This round sees three absolute cracker games, all of which will provide a guideline of where clubs will be come the end of the season.
The first game between GLADSTONE and YEPPOON looks to be an absolute ripper. With Gladstone having a number of senior players returning after missing last week due to work commitments, there is huge pressure on people to hold their place in the team. The Muddies are seeing the best numbers on the training track they have had for some time, Saturday's game will determine where they are as a team.
Yeppoon have been very impressive in their first two games, using hard running and attacking football to remain undefeated. This will be a key to the game, if Gladstone give Yeppoon too much room through the middle of the ground then the quality of their midfielders will prove too much for the Gladstone defence. Whilst the Muddies have one of the youngest teams in the competition, a win today could provide the basis they need to have a good year. Alternatively, Yeppoon get the win and at 3-0 they would definitely be the team everybody is chasing.
The next game has BROTHERS take on the PANTHERS. With both teams yet to register a win for the year this is a crucial game for both sides. To begin the year 0-3 would be well below where both teams expected to be prior to Round 1 and would lead to a hard slog ahead for the loser. A win, and they could well be on even points with another couple of sides in the competition.
Brothers will be boosted by the return of Scott Smithwick who missed last week due to injury. Whilst putting in plenty of running at training after their opening games, they will be hoping that the hard work pays off and they can get their first win for the year. Panthers have been close in their first couple of games and don't seem to be too far off the mark. The major worry for the Panthers so far must be their slow starts to the games. So far they have conceded a combined 9.10 to the opposition whilst only kicking 3.5 in the opening term. They will be looking to improve this today, a poor start against good sides and you can be out of the game before 1/2 time.
The final game between GLENMORE and BITS should be a fantastic contest. The Bulls have got off to the perfect start for the season, securing two hard fought wins in their opening games. Most would argue that BITS will provide their greatest challenge yet and provide an indication of where they really are as a team. With an injury cloud over Nathan Shipard BITS could be down a big man which would be of great relief to Glenmore considering how dangerous he can be around the ground.
The success to Glenmore so far has been the even contribution from all 22 players. However, with 11 goals of the teams 24 goals, Darcy Payne provides the real forward threat for the Bulls. If BITS can shut him down then they will go a long way to winning the game, this match up is crucial. The job may be handed to one of the younger players in Danny Hunt or Miles Clarke - a big call given the enormity of the task.
Last Modified on 01/06/2012 12:11