LEITCHVILLE/GUNBOWER will make at least two changes to its side going into tomorrow’s Heathcote District Football Netball League senior grand final.
The Bombers take on North Bendigo for the third consecutive time in the deciding match of the season, with the league’s northernmost side best placed to claim its first silverware since joining the competition in 2010.
Both Jack Dye – who broke his collarbone in the Bombers’ second semi-final win against the Bulldogs – and ruckman, Michael Pilcher – who suffered compartment syndrome after receiving a corked thigh two weeks ago – have been ruled out.
“After the tough second semi-final, we dealt with the loss of Jack and Michael for the decider, which was very disappointing for the two players and the playing group,” Bombers coach, Matt Hawken said.
“They have both have delivered terrific seasons on the back of hard work.
“We have been able to move forward, recognising their contribution on the season, but focusing everyone else on recovery.”
Lee Pollock, who missed the second semi-final due to a back spasm, should come in to cover Pilcher, with Daniel Meroli, Jack Lunghusen, Luke Sevior, Sean Hay and Tom Brereton all in consideration for the grand final side.
The Bulldogs also go into the match missing a number of its key players that have helped the side claim consecutive titles.
Ruckman, Brett Strange – who has not played since mid-July due to a knee injury – was officially ruled out at the weekend, with Tyson Findlay set to miss after injuring his hamstring in North Bendigo’s 36-point preliminary final win against Huntly.
The absence of Strange will give Pollock the advantage in the ruck contest, which was evident in both the Bombers’ round 16 and second semi-final wins.
Pollock will link up with Brad and Matt Ladson, as well as the league’s Rising Star recipient, Jackson McEwen, in the middle of the ground to generate play, but Jarrod Findlay and captain, Jordan Ford will have other ideas for the two-time defending premiers.
“Our ability to win the midfield battle was crucial in winning the second semi-final, and we will be looking for our midfield to deliver the goods,” Hawken said.
“We found some good match-ups for key North Bendigo personnel and demonstrated a terrific ability to persevere and get over the line.”
If Steve Pretty and Ayden Walton united again to shut down Sam Barnes and Brady Herdman in the Bulldogs’ forward line, the Bombers may return from Huntly with an elusive premiership cup, whilst Matt Perri and Daniel Coates will need to dominate in Leitchville/Gunbower’s forward line to ensure this occurs.
PREDICTION: A stable line-up will help Leitchville/Gunbower produce a 10-point win.
