James Murphy
CASTERTON SANDFORD v SOUTH GAMBIER
LAST year’s Western Border football runners-up will be determined to make it onto the winner’s list when they travel across the border to Island Park to play under lights.
South Gambier sits 0-2 after the opening rounds and will be eager to turn things around against Casterton Sandford.
Especially after the weekend, which had the Demons well in the contest before a one-point fourth quarter cost them dearly against a rampant Millicent.
Ultimately match fitness could be blamed, as South faced a shorter turnaround due to the mid-week Anzac Day game in Round 1.
The Demons are possibly the team which suffered most over the off-season, with a list of talent leaving the club.
However, as the youngsters on the list continue to develop, they should remain well in finals contention.
All going to plan this week will be the first step towards that goal, but the Cats at home should never be taken for granted.
That being said, the last time South took to the venue was against North in last year’s preliminary final where the former blitzed its rival to book a grand final berth.
Nelson Forbes will be a focal point in South’s forward line and the young-gun has led the goalkicking for his team in both games so far.
Coach Brayden Kain is also a threat inside 50 and will be searching for a bag if given the chance.
Mitchell Sims is another youngster who has impressed, as he builds on his 2022 endeavours.
Last week Ethan Chuck was best for the Demons and his intensity through the middle and into attack will be key again.
Bryce Whicker stood tall in the ruck, while Emerson Marks and Nick Seager also carry form into Round 3.
For the hosts the inclusion of Ed Pritchard was welcomed last round in the Cats’ win over East Gambier.
Should he line up again it will bolster the midfield, joining the likes of Gabe Parsons with Damian and Cory Wombwell.
Up forward Michael Krieger and Alistair McCrae have the potential to become a lethal combination and both of them are probably due a bag in the near future.
Matt Killey comes off a strong defensive performance and he will be put to the test against some young and athletic Demons.
The workrate of Diarmid Cleary across the ground is always high, while Adam McKinnon is another consistent performer.
The two teams match up well at this early stage of the season and a close battle could unfold.
The game will kick off at 5pm (SA time).
