James Murphy
OFF the back of a thrilling win before the Easter break, West Gambier will be hungry for another successful outing in Round 3 of Western Border football tomorrow.
However, the Roos find themselves up against reigning premier Millicent on its home deck, which will be no easy foe to overcome.
The Saints enter the match as the favoured team but both sides will carry confidence into the clash from Round 2 victories.
The Roos had a nail-biting encounter with North Gambier in their last outing, which resulted in a three-point win following an arm wrestle over four quarters.
Coach Daron McElroy stood tall in the ruck and will match up with Millicent’s Sam Waring this week, who has also been in good form.
McElroy also popped up in front of goals with an equal game-high three majors.
Youngster Tom Nieuwerkerk was the standout for the match, while Port MacDonnell recruit Tre Davis played a solid game as well.
Kyle Giddings puts in a hard-working game every week and will be another focal point, while Nathan Taylor has been solid in the forward line.
Millicent stumbled at McLaughlin Park in the season opener against South Gambier and will be set on a more successful outing in front of a home crowd this week.
The Saints certainly have the talent to put on a show, with young-gun Josh Werchon coming off an impressive outing against Casterton Sandford.
His decision making and ability to split the pack will cause headaches for West, while it will be interesting to see where the Saints play Dylan Bromley this round.
In his first year back at the club after a stint at Port MacDonnell, Bromley played a key role in the backline in week one, before a solid four-goal performance at the other end of the ground in Round 2.
His versatility will be something to watch this season as the Saints shuffle players around depending on their opponent.
Thomas Hutchesson has also hit the ground running this year in his return to Millicent, while it has also been served well by its youth with Kalan Shanks, Kade Bradley and Noah Lang all carrying form into the clash.
As has been the theme of the season so far, player availability could play a part in the outcome on the day but the Saints will enter the clash favourited for the win.
