Grand Final Preview Tonight?
Whilst South will have plenty to say about that Centrals are in the GF and West look the more likely challenger of the two.
Tonight’s contest, the 5th this year, is super important for West. They need to send a clear message to the Pies that it “ain’t over till it’s over”. On four previous occasions the Pies have won but the margins reflect the uncertainty of this grade. The margins in order this year have been 83, 16, 63 & 4 and it is that last game that West need to build on. They need to prove tonight that they can match it with Centrals for four quarters as much for their own self belief, as for the result.
Both sides have 6-8 regular A grade players in their teams so the result may well hinge on who plays and who doesn’t. The concern from afar with Centrals has been how they will handle the pressure when the finals arrive. Twice this year they have won by less than a kick which indicates they will need a full 80 minutes of quality footy to win. On several occasions this year they have blown sides away for a quarter and then slipped back into overusing the ball.
This will a great game with neither Coaching group wanting to show their “ace” just in case they do meet in the final. The games have all been of a high standard and are deserving of a better crowd, so find the warm jacket and head to the Jube at 5.45pm.
In the late game last start losers South and North clash. Whilst North have little if any chance of reaching the finals I am predicting a boil over this week with Trent Barraclough and Lachlan Tiziani back from State honours and ready to perform for their Club. With these two inside the forward 50 North can kick a winning score on the back of the centre square work of Chad Spangler, Zac Borlace, Josh Sheargold. Throw Jordan Vella to CHF on South’s key attacking defender in Kurt Rolton and add a tight tag by Ethan Thomas on South playmaker Riley Schorn and the Bulldogs are a chance!
South’s have improved as the year has progressed but will need this win as the following two games they tackle West and Centrals before the finals.
With North’s hierarchy very disappointed in last week’s effort I expect the young pups to be asked to look North champion /coach Codie Howard in the eye and go out and have a red hot dip! It will make for a great game so bring $4; watch the game and another $2 for two great scallops!
Last Modified on 26/07/2012 13:34