The Pumas have had plenty to play for in recent weeks – cementing a place in the final five and ensuring that team mates Will Sutton, Josh Menz and Taylor Ross celebrated their personal milestones of 200 junior games for the club. Both were achieved with plenty of emotion and in winning style. However, a new mindset is required as it's finals time and the hard work begins. The first hurdle is Surfers Paradise and both teams are playing for their survival . Based on wins over the fifth placed Demons by a 6 goal margin in both Rounds 1 & 10, Springwood will be expecting to dispose of them again. However, that’s about as far as the Pumas should value their past results.
Statistically over the home & away season there’s been little difference between them. Surfers won one less game although percentage wise, have a narrow margin. However, so far the Pumas have had the wood on them.
Coaches Nigel & Paul Opbroek will ensure that the team focuses on the job at hand and require the players to be accountable for their individual effort and self-discipline. No doubt they will be looking for a clinical no nonsense display.
Palm Beach-Currumbin won the minor premiership after winning 13 of the 15 round games with Redland second (both scored 1182 points), however PBC’s defensive record is by far the best of all teams. However, Redlands has the poorest defensive record of the top five finals contenders. Toowoomba finished third on the ladder and can look world-beaters at home including a win over PBC, however find it difficult to win away. Given that, Redlands with the home advantage in the other semi-final, may prove too strong for Toowoomba.
Tomorrow Sunday at 3.00 pm, come down and support the Pumas in what should be a thrilling game as they do battle with Surfers Paradise.
Last Modified on 07/09/2008 01:14