21 June 2018
Past the mid way point, attention now turns to the serious end of the season. Centenary celebrations to the fore this week at Wudinna and Wirrulla, players coming home for the festivities.
Last week saw the Roosters go about their winning ways in a convincing fashion against the straight kicking Wudinna United. The Tigers are back in town, stunning the Bombers at Poochera. While the possibility of the Tigers home win was always on the cards, the 54 point margin is above most pundits estimates. The mighty Hawks cranked right up against an undermanned ‘dog outfit at the Bay. The Centrals boys competitive in the first quarter but unable to counter the endless Hawks attack thereafter.
Expect the unexpected this week, heritage matches bring out the best in teams.
Wudinna United v Western Districts at Wudinna
Happy 100th Wudinna United (Wudinna FC 100 years and Yaninee FC 100 years)
Interesting match up here, on form and position on ladder, Tigers by how far? But this is a special day at the Magpie nest and the call to action is out. Districts wont be toasting their luck in 2018, vs Elliston in round one and Rooster 50 years in Le Hunte Heritage match, and now the Magpies 100 years, both events drawing ex pats and big interest.
No issue with the ground here, Western Districts have an exemplary record here since 2000, in fact these teams have better away records against each other than at home. Magpies look to salvage pride from 2018, whereas the Tigers are planning finals action, this is a vital step in reaching that outcome.
Ex Pats likely at the Maggie nest – Izaac Boylan, already played a couple of games, Josh Boylan, Ricky Seal, Sam Buckham. Add the return of Tom Dupree, Ryan Lymn and Brett Watkinson, the WU boys are suddenly looking more formidable. Mark North likely return this week. Remi North leads the locals, great Mortlock Shield culminating with EP squad selection. Neil Seaman run from defence has hurt the Tigers in the past, and he can swing forward with great effect. Adam Jericho’s start is on the rise, his speed is something. The grand old war horse Reggie Petty has impressed in key defensive roles, loves a contest, maximum effort every time. Henry Zwar may have the luxury of more time forward where he can use his impressive leaping and high marking skills to entertain the big crowd expected, certainly an increased level of opportunities should be forthcoming. Matt Greatbatch sheer hard ball winning skills crucial against a classy Tiger midfield, Jarad Tomney lines up against a team that he has served so well for many years, adding further interest. Dal Waters a smooth and reliable defender, more recently making guest appearances forward.
The Tigers have been building all year, new players are settling into the Fingers Feltus style. Existing players learning just how good these recruits are. Kingsley Ware has been a stand out, a key forward, but equally effective around the midfield, just cant be tackled! Reliable soldiers in the middle, Scotty Feltus, Shanon Horgan like it hard and tough, with Braydyn Hedley-King and Charlie Williams providing breathtaking speed and fast ball movement. Damon King O’ Loughlin is fit and dominating the air, a key target across half forward. New and recent recruit Ethan Thompson is finding his feet, he is a class act, hard running rebound player, running over the lines with high energy, as he fits into the side he will be a huge asset. Joe Williams in key defensive roles has taken all before him this year, and the recent return of Ken Newcombe adds power to the defence, Kade Gill also in sterling form, Tigers have the luxury to have this true utility player to fit any team need anywhere on the ground. Add Zane Montgomerie and Tobyn Lennell to the mix and the Tigers really look a sound unit.
Dont worry about form so far, this is a real 50/50 contest. The Tigers are settled and building and the Maggies are about to field one of their strongest sides for the year. Questions on whether Wudinna United can generate enough score is an issue, a problem that the Districts boys have had in the past but appear to have overcome. Home game, supporters from afar, old heroes and Magpie Alumni in attendance, much to play for! Happy 100th!
Tigers 1 – 10
Last Modified on 21/06/2018 18:25