THE Heathcote District Football Netball League’s minor premier will be decided tomorrow, when Leitchville/Gunbower takes on Elmore in the final round of the home and away season.
Despite beating Heathcote last week by 125 points, the Bombers relinquished top spot to North Bendigo by less than a one per cent margin after the Bulldogs crushed Mount Pleasant by 126 points.
A similar equation arises this week, with the Bombers needing to record a slightly greater winning margin than North Bendigo over Huntly to reclaim top spot.
The Bombers have been untouchable after a slow start to the season, when they were handed their only two defeats in rounds one and two against North Bendigo and Colbinabbin.
Remarkably, since then they haven’t been threatened, recording 13 victories by an average margin of 86, including seven defeats of more than 100 points.
The result tomorrow is a foregone conclusion, with the Bombers having beaten Elmore by 100 points when they met in round nine.
Nonetheless, Elmore has easily secured fifth place on the ladder and will be looking for a strong outing as preparation for the elimination final on August 14.
Bombers coach Matt Hawken said his side was in excellent shape heading into finals.
“We had Cam Ross return last week after missing eight weeks and get through the game well; co-captain Hoby Bussey, Jack Dye, Sean Hay and Brendan Meroli will miss this week but have all re-commenced training after injuries and will be pushing for selection in the first week of finals,” he said.
“Experienced players Dan Meroli, Drew Bartram and Ayden Walton will return to the side for Elmore.”
Hawken said his side’s main aim was to play well leading in to finals, although top spot was certainly a consideration.
“We can’t control what North Bendigo and Huntly do so our key focus will be playing a strong brand of footy against a top five side to round out a successful home and away season,” he said.
“Our aim at the start of the season was top three and we have achieved that; top spot would be a nice little bonus after dropping our first two games of the season.”
Hawken said the club’s youth had stood tall this season.
“We have blooded five debutants with a possibility of another debutant this Saturday,” he said.
“The Under 17s have had an outstanding season under Craig Dye and look to have top spot wrapped up, whilst the Reserves will finish fourth,” he said.
“I’m very confident our boys are in good shape leading into finals and the experience gained in the past few finals series will prove beneficial.
“The team is playing an exciting brand of football and will hit their best form at the pointy end of the season.”
PREDICTION: Leitchville/Gunbower will win by 80 points.
