NORTH Gambier should be unchallenged at Vansittart Park today when it hosts reigning premier Millicent for the final minor round of Western Border football.
The struggling Saints have not won a game this season and with the Tigers leading the competition, a win-less campaign is on the cards.
However, the last encounter between the teams can give Millicent a little hope.
A five-goal haul from Sam Willis saw the Saints come close to a major upset at McLaughlin Park in round 11.
The big scare was created by a last-quarter surge, but Millicent fell 10 points short at the final siren.
Jonah Grimes and Frazer Bradley also performed well that day.
The pair have joined Willis as some of the rare highlights for Millicent with their consistent team-lifting performances.
Willis has the ability to find the goals regularly with his pace, while Bradley is a similar young talent for the future.
Dylan Tincknell has also led from the front as the general in the backline.
He has received a best-player mention in all but four games this year, which reflects his remarkable form.
In front of goals, the Saints have found a new option up forward in Steve Duldig.
The once-defender has repaid the faith to be the side’s leading goal scorer recently and will offer a new challenge for North’s backline.
But these players will have to reach new heights if Millicent is to challenge an in-form Tigers line up.
North has shown an impressive fighting spirit to overcome injury concerns and shoot to the top of the ladder.
The Tigers have overcome premiership contenders West, East and Casterton Sandford in their previous three matches.
With that impressive record, the Saints should be a near certainty to be added to the list.
The likes of Michael Telford, Fraser Marshall and Nick McInerney will arrive brimming with confidence.
The trio has been prolific in the midfield and shows no signs of slowing down.
Telford was particularly impressive against the Cats after his second efforts had a big impact.
They have been well supported by the steady backline of Tim McInerney, Dylan Munn and Mason Ashby.
Their intercept marking ability has been a pillar of the Tigers’ recent wins.
Captain Tim McInerney played his 200th senior game last week and will look to continue his steady form.
Munn and Ashby have quietly made their way into the best in recent weeks and will also be tough to overcome.
In a warning sign for the Saints’ defenders, North playing-coach Justin McConnell enjoyed a strong return last round.
The prolific goal kicker booted eight majors in his one appearance against Millicent this season back in round one.
He will be determined to finish the season the same way it started.
All signs point to a comfortable Tigers’ home victory to ease into September.
With nothing to lose the Saints are desperate to finish a forgetful season on a high note and will want nothing more than to sing the song once in 2019.
However, North will search just as hard for victory and continue its golden run towards finals.
