Swans and Lions in Prelude to Elimination Final
The big clash at Fitzroy Oval this afternoon between the Coffs Swans and Nambucca Valley Lions will give local supporters an insight as to which club has the drive to go on in 2011 and which one is likely to bow out early. The Swans were sitting pretty after nine rounds with only one loss but have dropped their last four to be equal with Nambucca on the table and in danger of missing the playoffs altogether. Both of these sides only have to win one more game to secure a finals birth or rely on Sawtell not continuing its winning form.
Ironically the last time the Swans won was against the Lions down at Macksville in round nine in a tight contest so this game could go either way. They have a number of players returning including hulking young ruckman Ben Miller who will have a big job to curb the brilliant Aaron Clarke. Damien Elks has recovered from injury and should add plenty of attacking run from half back. Jarryd Burow, Fraser Tankel and the wily Jeff Reed will also add some class. Pete Robinson has the unenviable task of shutting down Lions star forward ‘Sugar’ Ray McGrath who is coming off a personal best 10 goal performance. The Swans impressed with their endeavour last week and if they can maintain that level of attack on the ball the end to their losing streak might just be over today.
Old Boys Out to Play
Spectators are in for an entertaining afternoon at Fitzroy Oval this afternoon with an ‘old boys’ game between the Swans and Woolgoolga planned after the U18 game at 1pm. Today is also the club’s ‘Call to Arms’ round designated to raise much needed funds for men’s prostrate cancer research. An after game rehydration ceremony is to be held at the Pier Hotel after the senior game.
Saints Destiny in Own Hands
The Sawtell Saints are mounting a late charge toward the finals but need a bit of luck with other results and must keep winning themselves. They face their biggest challenge at Richardson Park this afternoon where they host the all conquering Grafton in a must win game. Some old faces, and I mean that kindly, are back at the club with former best and fairest Jai Hardy having a run in the reserves last week along with previous senior coach Dave Myers. Ethan Kelly and Courtney Tune should win the ruck duels giving Sam Johnston and Todd Matthews an armchair ride from the stoppages. While the Tigers look too good all over the ground they have little to play for, having wrapped up the minor premiership, while the Saints will be desperate to keep their faint finals hopes alive. Hard to tip against the Tigers but this will a bruising clash and the Saints will not go down without a fight in what might be a tighter result than many think.
Port to Bounce Back at Home
The Port Macquarie Magpies should bounce back into the winners circle against cellar dweller North Coffs at home this week and in the process stitch up second spot on the ladder and the all important double chance. The Pies copped a hiding at Grafton last start but as usual travelled lightly and will have virtually a full list to choose from at Stuart Park. The return of big forward Damon Munt and club champion Jessie Schmidt alongside leading goal kicker Matt Newton gives the Pies an impressive look leading into the finals.
Rod Macpherson
Last Modified on 28/07/2011 15:53