AFL Report Round Finals 1– 10/8
Tigers Must Win Three in 2013
The reigning premiers, Grafton Tigers, step out onto BCU International Stadium today knowing that they must win three consecutive finals games to achieve their triple premiership dream. In their two previous campaigns the Tigers have come from top spot to win their flags and this will be a new challenge for them. Not so today though. North Coffs have really struggled as a club over the past month or so and at best look like providing only token resistance for the rampaging Tigers. At their best, and with their full list on the park, the Roos can be competitive but I just can’t see an upset here unless the Grafton bus breaks down and they start a quarter late. Even then it is hard to see them losing this.
The Tigers need a hard run. They had a good hit out against Sawtell last week and finished full of running to take that game in a tight finish. BCU is a big ground and the side that runs it out best usually wins. Evan Duyrea has had an outstanding season and will relish the open space while veteran Mark Blundell has turned back the clock with some impressive hauls at full forward, including 5 last outing. The Tigers premiership credentials were strengthened with the return of number one ruckman Graeme Connelly last start and he will improve as he finds match fitness. This week he fronts his twin brother Kirt in what is always a great ruck duel.
The reserves game at 1pm sees the Coffs Swans face off against Sawtell/Toormina in what should be a really hard and tight contest. The Swans snuck into the four at the expense of North Coffs and are making a late charge. They are the reigning reserve grade premiers. Camden Haven and Sawtell open proceedings in what should be another close and entertaining U18 game commencing at 11am.
AROUND THE TRAPS with ‘Rocket’ Rod Macpherson
Unlikely Hero
Grafton’s Ryan Sheather does not kick all that many goals. He is one of the best field kicks in the competition but put some goal posts in front of him and he could put it anywhere. That all changed last week in the dying stages of a tight finish at Sawtell when he had possession on the forward line with the Tigers needing a goal to win and snapped a brilliant 45 metre major to seal the game.
Brother in Arms
Sawtell/Toormina have lodged a late bid with the league to register the return of favourite son and former best and fairest winner Todd Matthews in time for the 2013 finals series. Todd has been hampered by a rare blood disorder and has missed numerous games over the past few seasons and has recently been working in WA with his brother Luke. His inclusion along with his other brothers Beau and Scott would boost the Saint’s chances no end.
Move Over Boys
Football codes have historically been male dominated and it was refreshing to see two dynamic women of AFL involved in strategic talks during the week. Bellingen local Heather Coutts has been a Board member for a number of years now and has been an energetic volunteer assisting with planning and consultation with clubs about possible improvements to the local competition. Taleah Neowhouse is the new Community Football Manager for AFL NSW/ACT and was making her first official visit to the north coast. Go girls.
Last Modified on 08/08/2013 12:36