WITH a tough run to the end of the minor rounds, tomorrow’s match against South Gambier could be Millicent’s last chance to notch up a win in the 2019 Western Border football season.
Just three games remain before finals and the last two put the Saints up against ladder leaders West and North Gambier.
That is not to say South will be any less of a challenge this week, as they have excelled in the last two encounters against Millicent.
The reigning premiers were unable to match the pace of the young Demons outfit back in round four, while a muddy affair at McLaughlin Park in round nine saw South’s experienced heads pave the way to victory.
Played at Blue Lake Sports Park this week, South will be hard to put down, having played well at home for most of the season.
The biggest scalp at the venue came at the cost of the Tigers just two weeks ago and if the Demons can bring the same intensity they brought to Brett O’Neil’s 200th senior game, the Saints could be in trouble.
Both teams recorded losses last round, but there were still positives for the sides.
Millicent will take confidence from a solid third quarter against Casterton Sandford, as well as the big input from its Under 18’s.
South on the other hand witnessed another spectacle in front of the big sticks from forward Brayden Kain, who finished up with six majors despite the loss.
O’Neil is also in top form since returning from injury, while youngster Todd Reid goes from strength to strength every week.
He is joined by a long list of rising talents in the Demons lineup and this week’s clash will likely see the average age on the ground plummet as the two developing teams lock horns.
Bronson Saffin is having a standout year for South, as is Jake Tentye and both will look to lead by example tomorrow.
Since his return from a fractured spine, Millicent playing coach Lyndon Smith has been in fine form and is back to his hard-working self, while Dylan Tincknell has been the standout for the Saints this year.
He has had a stellar season so far and his form can be expected to continue, while the likes of Steve Duldig, Sam Willis and youngster Frazer Bradley can be relied on to make an impact when needed.
Jonah Grimes was a big out last round and should he be absent again this week South’s Mason Hein will likely put on another show in the ruck.
While the top-of-the-table clash between West and North looms as the match of the round, this game will be one to watch as well and a close battle could ensue.
However, based on current form and previous encounters, the Demons should claim another home-ground win and keep themselves in the chase for a top-four finish.
