James Murphy
NORTH Gambier makes the trip across town to play ladder leader South Gambier for Round 8 of Western Border football this week.
The Tigers carry momentum into the clash with three consecutive wins.
The latest triumph was a solid showing against West Gambier, where the North put in a strong four quarters to win by 21.
That result came off an impressive performance from the backline, which put the pressure on the Roos and forced errors inside 50.
Justin McConnell was best-on-ground for the clash and has come into his own playing a new role this year.
His work through the midfield and off half back has created headaches for opposition, while he will be out for a strong performance in his 150th game for the Tigers.
Last time the sides met North led at half time but a surge from South after the long break pushed it to an 11-point victory.
Sam Stafford and Dale Bachmann were solid for the Tigers in that clash and carry form into this week.
Stafford is dynamic in front of goals, while Bachmann has joined the likes of Tim McInerney, Jordan Hollitt and Jake Schutz to form an imposing defensive unit.
They will all need to be at their best again as the Demons have proven versatile in front of goal.
Coach Brayden Kain is reliable as ever in front of the big sticks, while youngster Nelson Forbes was a standout in his debut last week.
He scored four goals in a best-on-ground effort and will be eager for another chance on the A Grade stage.
Fellow young-gun Liam Delaney was also impressive last round, while Brock Keding has proven dynamic and is capable of tearing the game open.
South bested East Gambier last week despite several injuries and will not have its full-strength roster again tomorrow.
However, its depth has been impeccable and the Demons will be hard to beat at home.
A close game looms either way, in what should be the match of the round.
