James Murphy
EAST GAMBIER v NORTH GAMBIER
THERE is every chance the Western Border match of the round will play out at McDonald Park again this week.
Last round the Bulldogs drew with top-two side West Gambier and now they host third-placed North Gambier.
Despite currently holding the wooden spoon, East has been an improved side in the second half of the season.
Meanwhile the Tigers enter the match off a three-game losing streak and will be out to rediscover some form this weekend.
Last time the two sides met North held on for a three-point win after a second-half surge from the Bulldogs.
Sam Stafford kicked a game-high four goals on the day, while Nick McInerney and Jake Schutz were the top performers.
Those three are looked to most weeks and the level of their game often dictates the standard of play across the ground.
The likes of Josh Jenner and Cameron Ortlepp have also been consistent this season, while Sam Egan comes off a solid performance against the Saints last week.
They will all be leaned on this round as they square up with an in-form East Gambier.
The Bulldogs have enjoyed a near full-strength roster in recent weeks and after their first win of the year in Round 12, will be eager to replicate that feat coming off the draw against the Roos.
Reece Lillecrapp has been in top form this season with five best-on-ground performances.
His midfield efforts provide connection through the ground, while Nick Lock has also been a cut above since being moved on ball this year.
Co-coach Jake Dowdy leads the forces down back, while John Forster and ruckman Carl Slape have been reliable leaders up the ground.
Riley Flamank has been the main target up forward with 21 majors from 11 games.
Mark Rumbelow and Shaun Lock have also had their fair share of goals and there will be plenty of pressure coming out of the midfield for the Tigers to deal with.
An arm wrestle could unfold, with both meetings this season not decided until the final quarter.
