James Murphy
A blockbuster contest approaches at McLaughlin Park when Millicent hosts South Gambier in a top-of-the-table Western Border football clash this weekend.
The teams have set the benchmark in 2022 and have shared the honours in their two previous meetings.
Last time they locked horns Millicent claimed the bragging rights by 32 points over at Blue Lake Sports Park.
However, both sides were understaffed in that game and over recent weeks have started to settle into near full-strength rosters.
The Demons boast arguably the most dangerous attack in the competition and both coach Brayden Kain and Brodie Foster come off impressive outings.
The duo kicked 10 and six goals respectively against West Gambier on the weekend and the Saints will be eager to keep them on a shorter leash this round.
For Millicent, Kalan Shanks earned the best-on-ground honours in their last meeting for the match and has continued to be an integral part of the Saints’ backline, while Josh Werchon and Kade Varcoe also impressed.
Frazer Bradley carries dangerous form into the round and has had a breakout season so far.
His skills in a contest – be it in the air or at ground level – are impressive to say the least and he will be one to watch on Saturday.
Another in-form Saint is Sam Willis, who enters the round off his best performance of the year.The game will more than likely be won in the midfield and whoever can capitalise early will hold the advantage.
Both the Saints and the Demons have midfields capable of pushing forward and hitting the scoreboard and the backlines will be equally as critical on the day.
Millicent boasts a young, yet talented defence, with the likes of Shanks and Zac McGuinness led by the experienced Dylan Tincknell.
South’s back six is equally as impressive and will provide a challenge for opposition forwards, with Todd Reid and James Paprotny in red-hot form.
While the home-ground advantage could come into play, whichever way the hammer falls on the day, it is sure to be an exciting game to watch.
