GAME PREVIEWS (written by SEABL Media)

GEELONG LADY SUPERCATS vs BENDIGO LADY BRAVES

Saturday 2nd April – 5:30pm

There should be plenty of excitement surrounding this game for a couple of reasons. Firstly, the newest team in the competition gets to find out how they shape up against one of the most traditionally strongest organisations in the League. Moreover, the championship rematch in the men’s game that follows should ensure that a large crowd is in attendance. And finally, Geelong coach Paul O’Brien and Supercat player Chelsea Aubry will be up against some of their former teammates from the Bendigo Spirit.

 SEABL MEN GAME OF THE WEEK

GEELONG SUPERCATS vs BENDIGO BRAVES

Saturday 2nd April – 7:30pm, The Geelong Arena

There is so much to like about this week’s SEABL Game of the Week. Let’s start with the obvious: this is a rematch of the 2010 Championship game, so there should be a packed crowd in attendance. Given that Geelong are the reigning champions, Bendigo will have to endure the pre-game festivities as the Supercats hang their Championship banner, knowing full well that it could well have been theirs if things had gone differently. But the hostile environment and circumstances may in fact favour the Braves. They will surely see themselves as underdogs at Geelong Arena, so will feel they have nothing to lose. Certainly the desire to atone for last year’s championship loss will be motivation enough to lift for this game, and may be used pointedly in the pre-game address by Braves coach Ben Harvey. Finally, the Braves are possibly a better team than the side that lost last years deciding game following the massive inclusion of the 7’3” centre Sam Harris. Geelong is also without the injured Nathan Herbart and, following the retirements of Braith Cox and Daniel George in the off-season, will look significantly different to the Championship team of 2010. Regardless of those factors favouring Bendigo, the Braves still have a monumental task ahead of them if they are to come away with a first round win. Firstly, the stadium is still going to be packed, and Geelong crowds are always vocal and passionate, a factor worth about 5-10 points for the home team. Secondly, the Braves will have to contain, or attempt to contain, 2010 MVP Ismail Muhammad. Bendigo had only limited success in that area in last years decider, as Muhammad took home the MVP award on the night. This is also Geelong’s only home game for almost a month, so they will be desperate to get their momentum going before a stretch of games on the road. If there are tickets still available for this game, get them while you can. Bendigo will have revenge in mind, while Geelong will not want to disappoint in front of a packed home crowd.