Dale Tonkin’s expert preview of the local AFL matches on this weekend.
North vs West
First up we go to the game of the round, West versus North at Jubilee Oval.
Last week West were slaughtered by South and the Dogs only just got the job done against the Pies. Even though it was 37 scoring shots to 17, you’ve still got to capitalise on your opportunities
This one this weekend is a real interesting battle. I believe both sides may have personnel out but let’s just focus on who is playing and look at what both sides bring.
Both West and North bring speed and pressure. So who structures up the better? Normally I’d say North, thanks to a good combination of talls and smalls but not today unfortunately because the Dogs are missing some important personnel, so the Robins may be licking their lips on this one.
But today’s game is going to be a psychological battle in preparation for the prelim and with all due respect to Central I don’t think they can make up the games plus percentage.
I’ve also heard they’re moving this game to 1.15pm today as it looks like it’s going to be a double header due to Central forfeiting the reserves game.
I think today might just be the Robins’ day and they could grab their first win against the Dogs so far this year. I just think the time is right for the Robins as they really need to start making their mark on the competition and gaining some momentum with only six games to go.
Yes it’s quite difficult to go against the Doggies given that I am involved, but a neutral approach on this page is best so I feel I’m going to go the Robins by three goals today, but I also know the Dogs won’t give up.
South vs Central
The second game between the Roos and the Pies looks like it will take place after the Dogs versus Robins game from 3pm at Jubilee Oval.
As I have been saying all year, when the Pies can play four quarters they will get a side, however it won’t be today as, let’s not sugar coat it, the Roos will stamp their authority on the game and should win by plenty.
However, Central are starting to understand each other and look a lot more connected then they have in the past, but South are just a well oiled machine and the bench mark of the competition.
Watch South play and you’ll see they move the ball by foot a lot more than they have in the past. They move the ball by foot in vee and double-you shapes, hitting the 45degree and then into space to their forwards. It’s simple footy but very effective as it has been trained into them and they work it to perfection. Their coaching staff should be applauded because besides West in round two no one has really got near the Roos this year as they march on to becoming the minor premiers this year.
No one in their right mind would tip against the Roos today. Central however should still put up a good contest. I am obviously going the Roos today by plenty – 10 goals plus.
Enjoy the footy everyone.
