After 3 consecutive wins for the Wildcats (def. Blues, Eagles & Swans), Hamilton took a tough loss in a nailbitter versus the 2nd place Guelph Gargoyles heading into the Canada Day long weekend and dropped their record to 4-2. After an extra week off, the Wildcats will be looking to get back into the win column versus a quality side; in what has become a bit of a budding rivalary over the last few seasons between the Clubs. Both teams will be in serious need of the 4 points, as every single win will move a Club 1 step closer to clinching a Finals birth in 2011. Should be a cracker of a game!!!
Round #8: HAMILTON WILDCATS (4-2) v BROADVIEW HAWKS (3-4)
Venue: University of Toronto (Scarborough Campus), Toronto, ON.
Map/Directions: https://websites.mygameday.app/club_info.cgi?c=1-7394-110437-142013-0&sID=160735
2010 OAFL Record: Hamilton Wildcats (4-9), Broadview Hawks (7-6) - Broadview won season season (1-0) in '10.
Key Players: Hamilton - as the 'Cats continue to use their 'reserve rotation', several of Hamilton's more veteran players will sit out this week versus the Hawks, but this will definitely open the door for new players, Drew Dupras (Hard Hat Award in Round #6 v Swans), Justin Hyde, Gary "MCG" Hesmer, Dan Gibbs, Tom Bialynicky, bigman Steve Dostal and follower Jeremy Taylor all play big roles across the oval for the 'Catters. Broadview - Nick Shuttleworth has been a bit of a Wildcat-killer over the last few seasons, and always sems to find a way to kick a bag versus the 'Cats. Hamilton's backline will have to make sure that they match-up well versus the tall Aussie, but not to forget about the other skilled players across the ground. With the addition of Connor Dullard, and 2nd year Canadian Afjal Mohomad gaining experience each week; the 'Cats will be in tough against one of the top sides in the OAFL.
HAMILTON Strengths: Overall team depth and a very strong backline have kept the Wildcats in each game this season, as well as the hardness of rotating rovers Brett Aiken, Luke Lombardini, Tim Wilson and Kris McKillop. New import ruckman Cam Teague & back-up Eben Schaeffer have filled-in for the vacationing/injured tandem of P. Lawson & E. DeBruin, helping the 'Cats to win many of the center clearances over the last 3 Rounds. Over the last couple of weeks, we've seen several "unknowns" really step-up their game or shine in positions not thought would be a strong suit for them, only improving depth around the oval. HAWKS Strengths: Great overall team height, with good run off the back flanks and wings. Lots of experience in key spots around the oval, with a great combination of Aussie & Canadian talent in their starting 18.
This game may come down to the team that has the tighter backline, as both Clubs have good scoring options, a very talented midfield crew and quickness off the wings. As mentioned earlier, both teams like to hit and definitely don't shy away from contact, so if you get a chance to come out to watch the game, sit close to the field and enjoy all the action!!!
Round #8 Prediction: Hamilton Wildcats def. Broadview 63-57
C'arn the WILDCATS!!!
Last Modified on 08/07/2011 07:28
