A juicy semi-final contest between Southern Districts and Waratah will kick off the round at TIO Stadium tomorrow with the losing team eliminated, and the winner advancing to next weekend’s preliminary final.
The Crocs go in as slight favourites off the back of strong post-Christmas form and a win against the Warriors the last time these teams played. Districts have won five of their past six games including a 26-point win in last weekend’s elimination final against PINT.
The midfield duo of Jye Bolton and Jed Anderson is a damaging partnership, while the ruck combo of Wyatt Ryan and Matt Dennis will ensure that their midfielders will often get first hands on the football.
Matt Johnston played his first game in over a month last weekend and was impressive on return while key forward Jarrod Brander was solid last weekend after being held goalless a fortnight ago.
Dylan Barry has been the surprise packet recently having kicked 11 goals in his past three games, so the Warriors will need to be accountable for him.
Waratah were just one kick away from winning against Nightcliff last week and booking a spot in the Grand Final qualifier. Lachlan Cassidy continued his strong season topping the disposal list for the Warriors, while ex-AFL player Ryan Clarke has also been finding plenty of the football.
Jayden Magro was a noticeable absentee last week, but former AFL-listed player Anthony Munkara booted three goals and has a good record against the Crocs having posted a six-goal best-on-ground performance during the Warriors’ huge win in Round 1.
Arnold Kirby was the Warriors best against the Tigers, but he will have his work cut out for him tomorrow with Districts’ strong pairing.
Expect an entertaining contest as both teams compete to keep their season alive.
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