Sawtell aim to return to the top
They tasted premiership glory in 2005 and 2006 and now Sawtell are well placed to do the same this year after a nail-biting loss in the decider last year.
Their consistent approach and minor premiership status has coincided with Russ Matthews’ return to the helm after a year’s absence. Russ just couldn’t stay away and his presence has seen the Saints dominate the regular season, only losing two games.
The absence of 2006 Woodlock Medallist, Luke Matthews has hardly caused a ripple in the Saints, with Mark Couzens taking ownership of the midfield.
Club president and Senior backman, Dean Taylor, is rapt with the Saints season across the board.
“It has been a very good season from all our three grades,” he said.
“We have been consistent all year and have built momentum as the season has progressed.”
The personal highlight for the season was Ben Hooke’s kicking 100 goals in a season in Round 15, becoming the first player to do so for well over a decade. His ankle injury has sent some shivers through the squad but the club is confident of his return in the finals.
It seems the Saints have struck the right balance with healthy competition for places in the Senior squad with the youngsters getting amidst the limelight this season.
“We have a good mix of youth and experienced players,” Taylor highlighted.
“We are even across the field with strong backs, forwards and midfielders.”
The Saints dominated the composition of the Representative Squad and have been putting the goals on the board even with the absence of key players.
It is this versatility that is highlighted amongst Taylor’s key players in the finals series:
-
· Mark Couzens- “leading player on the North Coast for a number of seasons now.”
-
· Todd Matthews- “younger player who has had an outstanding season.”
-
· Daniel Pritchard- “key defender who can also attack.”
-
Courtney Tune- “a Representative ruckman who is versatile.”
With this, the Saints look in a strong position to regain the AFL North Coast Premiership. Other clubs proclaim they have good depth, but there is no rival when it comes to the Saints. This will stand them in good stead as the finals series progresses.
Last Modified on 11/08/2008 17:43