PREVIEW - WPLFC vs MONTMERENCY
The reserves finished 2nd on the ladder in 2010 and were unable to win a final. Last season they fell 7 points short of a Grand Final victory in a barnstorming last quarter. 2 seasons of heart ache. 2 years of torment. A Grand Final loss that will never be extinguished and a game that that only yielded commiserations. That is the theme for the group as they prepare to take on Montmerency in the 2012 Division 1 Reserves Grand Final. This year there is an opportunity for redemption. Hunger, determination and execution will be required to stand on the dais this time around.
West Preston Lakeside FC have been in startling form in the past few months. A string of wins to go with some high-flying football. As we all know, that counts for very little come the first bounce. What the Roosters will need to rely on in their the pursuit of premiership glory is consistent and effective team football.
Grand Finals cannot be won in the first quarter of the game but they can be lost. The old adage of the first team to settle will gain an advantage is pertinent. The heat of battle can unearth finals performers as easily as it can derail even the most experienced characters.
Looking forward to the game, key players look to be Shaun Barker and Chris Belbasis. Both are seasoned stars and can hold their own against any and all midfields in the league. Their impact on the game and influence on teammates will be pivotal, especially early in the game. The x-factor type players can turn Grand Finals when the game requires a hero. Many standout candidates appear but none more so than Naci Eshel or Kane Heaney. They will have their moments and if they can capitalize it will no doubt elevate the team to new heights. The adrenalin will be pumping and the most salient factor in this game may be the execution of skills in the cut and thrust of finals football. Skilled exponents in the back half for the Roosters like Nick McKernan and Garrett McDonagh could prove invaluable.
There is no doubt that goal kickers win big finals. David Bonnadio will be a vital cog in the forward line along with Niall McDonagh and Ben Peters chipping in. They provide a dangerous and potent forward line. Throw in Andreis Jurgens and some midfielders resting forward, this mix looks destructive.
Coach Matt Sleeman will have learnt a lot from the past anguish and with a wealth of talent at his disposal he should go into the game very confident. With the game not far away, it must be said that all the supporters and fans of the Roosters are very proud of all players pulling on the jumper. A fabulous effort so far and all of our well wishes go to those involved.
Be brave, be bold and good luck!
Last Modified on 19/09/2012 22:13