James Murphy
MILLICENT v SOUTH GAMBIER
LAST year’s grand finalists will meet again for the third time in 2023 when Millicent hosts South Gambier in Round 12 of the Western Border football competition.
The Saints had the jump on its rival in the 2022 title clash and has continued to lead the way in both hitouts this campaign.
However, the young rebuilding Demons were well within reach, particularly in the most recent encounter.
They will look to put the pressure on again and despite the home-ground advantage, Millicent will need to keep its wits about it.
A closer-than-expected result over a winless East Gambier kept the Saints on their toes last week, following the previous round’s loss to West Gambier.
They will look to get the momentum rolling again after winning their first 10 matches of the season.
The absence of two in-form talents will hinder the side somewhat, with Millicent playing coach Clint Gallio and young-gun Kade Varcoe both outs.
They are set to represent SA Country in the annual derby with WA Country, this year held in Perth as a curtain-raiser for the Fremantle v Sydney AFL match.
Regardless, Millicent has a deep talent pool and Tom Renzi is no stranger to stepping into the coaching role.
The likes of Jacob Carger and Frazer Bradley come off strong performances, while Zac McGuinness continues to stand tall in defence.
Gallio and Varcoe will both be missed around the contest, with some youth likely to step in and cover those losses.
The backline will also provide back up with the likes of Kade Bradley able to push up the ground and keep the ball from penetrating the defensive arc.
Looking at South and it will also hope to exit the weekend with consecutive victories, having toppled the Tigers last round.
With a top-four spot still within reach every game will be vital to keep the Demons’ finals hopes alive.
Mitchell Harrold comes off a best-on-ground performance and his speed down the wing will be important again.
Ethan Chuck was another who impressed on the weekend and his efforts had him receive the Road Safety Best on-field Decisions award, as voted by the opposition on the day.
South has relied on a diverse attack and anyone could step up on the day in front of goal.
Chuck and Mitchell Sims were the main culprits last round, while coach Brayden Kain is always a reliable avenue.
Another hard-fought game could unfold and the Saints will need to keep their wits about them if they are to ensure a win.
