Facing an uphill battle

September 14 2007

Shepparton News

Shepparton faces mission impossible to qualify for the North Eastern Soccer League Grand Final as it travels to Griffith to take on triple-reigning premier Hanwood on Sunday.

Hanwood eliminated Shepparton United in week one of the finals to move within a step of the season decider, while Shepparton couldn't hold a 2-0 lead against Yoogali last week, needing to make the most of its double chance.

Yoogali Leagues Club will play host to the venue and Shepparton is planning to travel to Griffith on Sunday morning as it looks to raid the town and return with a rematch against Yoogali at Tatura Park.

Should Hanwood win the match, however, the grand final will be played in Griffith between the two NSW teams.

Reds coach Andy Ingham said his side was in a similar position last year after having been written off before its preliminary final against Yoogali, a game it won 2-0.

"It would be a huge result to knock off a three-time premier, when we beat Yoogali last year it was one of the biggest results the club had enjoyed in years," Ingham said.

"It was hard to take in the loss to Yoogali, we didn't do a great deal at training, we got together more to raise spirits.

"We beat them convincingly at home 2-0, but we'll face quite a different side on Sunday."

Mitchell Anderson will miss the game for Shepparton after suffering concussion against Yoogali last week, while Jarrod Moore is unavailable as he recovers from an injury to ankle ligaments.

Hanwood's only injury concern is Michael Musitano after he was left on the pine against Shepparton United two weeks ago.