AFL Report Round 5 – 19/5
Clash of the Titans
Port Macquarie and the Grafton Tigers, the two undefeated heavyweights of local AFL, go head to head at Ellem Oval this afternoon with the winner having some breathing space at the top of the ladder. Grafton will start warm favourites, courtesy of their home ground advantage, but the Magpies have been hot of late and will not relinquish top spot easily.
The Tigers have a full list to pick from with star forward Lee Anderson recovering from a knock last week to complete the most potent attack going around. They will need to be on song as Port has a strong defence lead by Craig Dicker and Greg Dean while Matt Lill is in dynamic form in attack. The long road trip is certainly a factor and for that reason I am tipping the home side will have the edge.
The Russ Matthews Factor
Ex Sawtell/Toormina premiership coach Russ Matthews faces off against his old club at Leisure Park this afternoon where his improving North Coffs Kangaroos host Sawtell. Matthews has an unbelievable record as a coach having won two U18 premierships at North Coffs before crossing to the Saints in 2005 and coaching 4 senior premierships in as many years at the helm. It seems he only coaches premiership teams?
It is difficult to see him getting North Coffs to the play off this season but I am not going to underestimate the master. The Roos had a big win last weekend and are boosted by the return of Craig Hundle, Levi Sands, Dean Matthews and Tom Merrick. Young BJ Foster is a speedster in top form and the Saints will have real a battle on their hands.
Sawtell were good against Port last week and expect Courtney Tune and Craig Parsons to return and add potency to their attack. Alex Pearson is in outstanding form and Danny Palm is strong at the contest. Saints by a whisker.
AROUND THE TRAPS with Rod Macpherson
Watching Port Macquarie’s star forward Jessie Schmidt glide across the ground gathering possessions last week was an amazing sight. One of the most talented players in local AFL Jessie has only just recovered from breaking his leg twice in the last 18 months!
Sawtell reserves stalwart Bruce Alp has put his talents to umpiring in 2012. On Saturday ‘Nipper" was faced with a major dilemma when his beloved Sawtell reserves were short of players at Port Macquarie while he was scheduled to umpire that game! Some quick rescheduling saw him umpire the U18 game and then pull on the jumper in the reserves. He did suggest doing both but his offer was declined.
Life member of North Coffs Don Markey will play his final game for the club in the reserves this weekend. Don is leaving the district and will leave a big hole at the club.
Multiple premiership winning coach, Russ Mathews, let slip his secret. He promises his players a BBQ of venison if they win, otherwise its sausages.
Last Modified on 18/05/2012 15:55