WFL finals preview 2018

WFL & WNA finals

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33

WFL Finals

Warrack Eagles

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Eagles’

Warrack Eagles’ road to the finals Coach: Ryan McKenzie

Round 1: L. 10.7 (67) lost to Southern Mallee Giants 16.14 (110). Anzac Park.

Round 2: W. 20.11 (131) d Nhill 11.10 (76). Away.

Round 3: W. 8.12 (60) d Minyip-Murtoa 7.9 (51).

Away.

Round 4: L. 9.10 (64) lost to Horsham 11.18 (84).

Anzac Park.

Round 5: L. 9.7 (61) lost to Ararat 13.15 (93).

Away.

Round 6: Bye. Round 7: L. 11.13 (79) lost to Stawell 13.6 (84).

Away.

Round 8: W. 11.13 (79) d Horsham Saints 8.13 (61). Anzac Park.

Round 9: W. 29.20 (194) d Dimboola 5.2 (32).

Away. * Round 10: L. 6.8 (44) lost to Southern Mallee Giants 14.14 (98). Away.

Round 11: W. 12.15 (87) d Nhill 5.7 (37). Anzac Park.

Round 12: W. 13.8 (66) d Minyip-Murtoa 8.9 (57).

Brim.

Round 13: L. 14.7 (91) lost to Horsham 16.11 (107). Away.

Round 14: W. 14.15 (99) d Ararat 7.11 (53). Brim.

Round 15: Bye. Round 16: W. 11.8 (74) d Stawell 7.9 (51). Anzac Park.

Round 17: L. 6.7 (43) lost to Horsham Saints 6.8 (44). Away. ** Round 18: W. 20.27 (147) d Dimboola 9.7 (61).

Anzac Park. *Highest score ** Lowest score Total: Won: 9. Lost: 7. For: 1406. Against: 1099.

Points: 44. Percentage: 127.93.

L

BY DAVID JOHNS

et’s turn back the clock 12 months. What we were saying then about Warrack Eagles in Wimmera Football League is pretty much the same as this season.

The Eagles have been a frustrating team to follow, but after all of their inconsistencies now find themselves fighting it out in the finals.

The late confirmation of the Eagles securing an elimination-final berth came after some gritty efforts late in the season and it’s that hardened edge that should hold the team in good stead.

But it would be hard for any punter to confidently put money on this side, considering the Eagles’ zigzagging win-loss record throughout the season.

Early-season predictions had the team sitting top three on the back of news that Nick Peters and Jeremy Clayton had joined the camp. But perhaps there was general underestimation of the impact of notable departures and the high level of competitiveness across the league.

Warrack Eagles are in the finals because they are starting to play to the level and consistency fans have been expecting. Interestingly, the Eagles appear to enjoy taking on the challenge of playing highly ranked opponents and in games of late have fully tested teams including minor premier Horsham.

There seems little doubt that Warrack Eagles, under the leadership of Ryan McKenzie, have the ability to push deeply into the finals. Let’s not forget they nearly played off a grand final last year.

But the question is – which Eagles will turn up to play in the finals? Will it be the hardrunning, direct and determined Eagles or the patchy-form Eagles?

Daniel Bell

Leading goal-kickers

Dalton Jaensch 35, Ryan McKenzie 31.

2018

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time to shine Much depends on how the robust McKenzie, equally at home in attack or on the ball, plays and whether the team can fully exploit the rucking, marking and goal-kicking ability of big man Shannon Argall.

Ball magnet Peters can also play at a level above the competition when on song. His foot skills are elite in Wimmera league and his ability to turn defence into attack is considerable.

The Eagles’ scattergun approach to playing attacking football is great to watch when they get it right and opens opportunities for their squad of youngsters.

And it’s a method that also opens the door for rising spearhead talent Dalton Jeansch.

If Jeansch can find space and team-mates honour his leads, his ability to be damaging will come to the fore.

The Eagles have also come to rely heavily on the mop-up expertise of Riley Morrow, who accumulates important settling touches through half back each week.

The x-factor player the Eagles are likely to miss, and who could make the team a five-goalbetter side if available, is wildly talented Charlie Wilson. But Wilson, on the footy pathway, might have bigger fish to fry.

So just what are the Eagles’ chances to not only get past the first week of finals but to also threaten for a spot in the season climax? Pick a card.

The team has the potential but inconsistency throughout the season more than suggests it will need to pull out something special to be a serious threat.

Warrack Eagles

Players to watch Ryan McKenzie Exceptional on-field leader who never asks his team-mates to do something he’s not willing to do himself. The Eagles would love to clone him so they could have him both in the middle and in front of goals at the same time.

Shannon Argall A big man who has the capability to control and change momentum of games. He will need to put this on show for the team to get past the first week of finals. Has a strong grab and big engine.

Riley Morrow Unassuming defensive clean-up player and accumulator of possessions. Lightly built and often unsung but one of the Eagles’ most level-headed and consistent players.

Nick Peters Can at times seem to have the ball on a string.

Wins a lot of football and his delivery into the Eagles’ forward line could well be a major highlight of the finals.

Riley Morrow

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35

Horsham Saints

WFL Finals

Horsham Saints’ road to the finals Coach: Luke Fisher

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Round 1: L. 8.4 (52) lost to Horsham 13.19 (97).

Away.

Round 2: L. 7.9 (51) lost to Ararat 7.10 (52). Home.

Round 3: Bye. Round 4: W. 11.10 (86) d Stawell 5.11 (41). Home.

Round 5: W. 13.15 (93) d Nhill 5.3 (33). Away.

Round 6: W. 18.20 (128) d Dimboola 4.4 (28). Away.

Round 7: W. 14.14 (98) d Southern Mallee Giants 6.7 (43). Home.

Round 8: L. 8.13 (61) lost to Warrack Eagles 11.13 (79). Away.

Round 9: W. 9.9 (63) d Minyip-Murtoa 3.10 (28).

Home.

Round 10: W. 8.13 (61) d Horsham 5.3 (33). Home.

Round 11: L. 4.7 (31) lost to Ararat 16.8 (104).

Away. ** Round 12: Bye. Round 13: L. 12.11 (83) lost to Stawell 17.15 (117).

Away.

Round 14: W. 19.19 (133) d Nhill 9.10 (64). Home.

Round 15: W. 21.20 (146) d Dimboola 3.4 (22).

Home. * Round 16: W. 6.7 (43) d Southern Mallee Giants 4.9 (33).

Round 17: W. 6.8 (44) d Warrack Eagles 6.7 (43).

Home.

Round 18: L. 9.3 (57) lost to Minyip-Murtoa 15.14 (104). Away. * Highest score ** Lowest score Total: Won: 10. Lost: 6. For: 1230. Against: 921.

Points: 48. Percentage: 133.55.

Leading goal-kickers Matt Combe 26.

I

BY DAVID JOHNS

f there is a team coming into Wimmera Football League finals boasting an x-factor then it is hard to look past Horsham Saints.

The Saints, based on their past month of hectic home-and-away football, also certainly rate as more than a finals dark horse.

Horsham Saints have had an up and down season due to injuries and player unavailability through pathway commitments and have done exceptionally well to finish where they have on the ladder.

This has happened despite team leaders, week in and week out, having the tough job of trying to establish a stable and settled side.

It has taken a quality mix in leadership to get the equation right.

Coach Luke Fisher, apart from his obvious ballwinning abilities, has provided on-field leadership and direction for the team and at the same time has had former premiership mastermind Shayne Breuer running an efficient bench.

Outside observers can clearly see the influence and strengths of both of these leaders, with Fisher one of the stars of the competition and now playing with freedom after knee trouble, and Breuer applying his wealth of footy knowledge through a clipboard.

The Saints have been an enigma. One week they have beat a highly credentialed team such as the Southern Mallee Giants, the next they have struggled to kick a winning score against a team they should overcome easily.

But this is a team that is now hitting its straps at the right time of the season.

Sam Breuer

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finals x-factor

Horsham Saints

Players to watch Michael Rowe The big man has returned to the competition and has steadily become one the most crucial players in the Saints line-up. A quality tap ruckman, his strong marking behind the play and work around the ground is critical for the Saints.

This is on the back of the likes of Mitch Martin and Justin Helyar returning from elite under-18 commitments, forward Matt Combe overcoming injury and in the shadows of the home-and-away season, star Jacob Cooke-Harrison on the park after missing most of the year.

All of a sudden, Horsham Saints now appear to be a 15 to 20-goal side instead of a 10-goal group and this obviously augurs well for their finals campaign.

The Saints base their game on zoning pressure and backing themselves through the likes of Sam Clyne, Fisher, Fergus O’Connor and Sam Jasper to generate tempo football.

The reality is the Saints are the best structurally organised team in the finals.

The return of ruckman Michael Rowe to Wimmera league has been fantastic for the group. Rowe’s ruck work and competitiveness across the ground is invaluable.

Alexander McRae is the club’s backline general and Andrew Devereaux is his worthy lieutenant.

At the other end, Jacob O’Beirne and Combe, with Cooke-Harrison, provide a multi-pronged forward line that can give opposition defenders a mighty runaround.

But what about the team’s grand-final aspirations?

The team was in the season play-off only two years ago and still boasts solid finals experience throughout the side.

The Saints’ team brand of football, for which they are renowned, has all the attributes to be playing on the big day in September.

The Saints will need to draw everything they have to get across the line, but results suggest they also play on high levels of self-belief.

Luke Fisher

The Saints coach is a front and centre specialist whose ball use on either side of his body at both ends of the ground is first class. He has had greater impact for the Saints this season after a serious knee injury.

Alexander McRae A hard-to-beat defender and at the core of theSaints’ defensive six. He always takes the opposition’s best forward and his shut-down role each week has been critical in getting the Saints to the finals.

Sam Jasper Fergus O’Connor

A proven finals performer. Oozes class when he gets into space and can rip opposition midfields apart with line-breaking runs.

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37

WFL Finals

Ararat Rats

Ararat’s road to the finals Coach: Shane Fisher Round 1: W. 21.16 (142) d Stawell 9.5 (59). Home. * Round 2: W. 7.10 (52) d Horsham Saints 7.9 (51).

Away.

Round 3: W. 21.15 (141) d Dimboola 1.3 (9).

Home.

Round 4: L. 10.4 (64) lost to Southern Mallee Giants 15.13 (103). Away.

Round 5: W. 13.15 (93) d Warrack Eagles 9.7 (61). Home.

Round 6: W. 14.7 (91) d Minyip-Murtoa 11.10 (76). Away.

Round 7: L. 10.11 (71) lost to Horsham 16.12 (108). Home.

Round 8: W. 20.11 (131) d Nhill 9.5 (59). Home.

Round 9: Bye. Round 10: W. 7.19 (61) d Stawell 6.11 (47).

Away.

Round 11: W. 16.8 (104) d Horsham Saints 4.7 (31). Home.

Round 12: W. 16.17 (113) d Dimboola 4.8 (32). Away.

Round 13: L. 11.8 (74) lost to Southern Mallee Giants 17.15 (117). Home.

Round 14: L. 7.11 (53) lost to Warrack Eagles 14.15 (99). Away.

Round 15: W. 10.12 (72) d Minyip-Murtoa 4.10 (34). Home.

Round 16: L. 5.6 (36) lost to Horsham 17.13 (115). Away. ** Round 17: W. 8.18 (66) d Nhill 8.7 (55).

Round 18: Bye. *Highest score. ** Lowest score.

Total: Won: 11. Lost: 5. For: 1364. Against: 1056.

Points: 48. Percentage: 129.17.

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Surprising Rats T

BY DAVID JOHNS

here is little doubt the surprise-packet in Wimmera Football League this year has been Ararat.

The improvement from the Rats has exceeded all expectations, at least from outside the club, and generated considerable interest across the expanse of the competition.

Ararat coach Shane Fisher has done a magnificent job with his list and now, at the death knock, would be hoping he can get everyone back on the park and, importantly, playing well.

Fisher has had to deal with crippling injuries in the second half of the season, which has placed a question mark over the potential of his team to push deeply into the finals series.

The Rats have, at stages during the season, set the pace with head-turning performances and despite relinquishing second spot on the ladder of late, would still be happy to win a finals cap.

History reveals that Wimmera league is always healthier when Ararat sides are performing strongly and that’s been the case this year.

The red and white force from Alexandra Oval has beaten teams this season by running opponents off their legs and using precision disposal skills to hit targets.

When the technique has worked it has worked well.

Forget disappointing home-and-away results from Ararat of late. This is a team with its sights firmly on the finals – perhaps something even some club insiders might not have expected.

Ruckman Zach Louder has been fantastic for the Rats this year. He has provided his fleet-footed players with great use of the ball as well as being a solid and pivotal contributor across the ground.

Dan Mendes

Leading goal-kickers Lachlan Hamilton 50, Ben Free 22, Tom Mills 21.

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right in the mix He’s conspired alongside players such as Mendes brothers Nick and Dan, Jake Robinson and Riley Taylor.

From defence, red-headed line-breaker Adam Haslett is a favourite of fans who enjoy good old-fashioned players who love a one-on-one scrap.

Haslett is also adept at setting up offensive moves by breaking up opposition forays forward.

When the Rats push forward, they often direct traffic through reliable Tom Mills and have had a winner in front of the sticks in Lachie Hamilton.

One of the strengths of the Ararat group is that it has several handy players who tend to slip under the radar and can hurt opposition teams that haven’t done their homework.

A bye leading into the finals came at a perfect time for the Rats to either rest weary bodies or help players trying to recover from injuries to get right for the team’s first finals campaign in many years.

The league is now watching the Rats closely and a big question on the lips of many is whether Jack Ganley, who only played six games this season before breaking his leg, will be making a finals appearance.

Early word is that Ganley and Dan Mendes, hamstring, will be right for the first week of the finals, but Jake Williamson might now be in trouble with an injured knee.

The Ararat club declared early in the season it wanted to consolidate and build on its reputation as Ararat’s flagship sporting representative group.

It has achieved that to some degree and now has the opportunity to fly the flag even higher in the finals.

Ararat might be too lean and lame to seriously threaten the top couple of sides if they push further into the finals.

But it might be a case of watch out in 2019.

Ararat Rats

Players to watch Adam Haslett A player who, if he played in an earlier era, would be compared with former Horsham premiership defender Terry Arnel. I love the way he goes about his football and is a lynch pin of the Rats outfit.

Zach Louder

Has impressed all season, at most times as a lone ruckman for the Rats. His tap work has been exceptional and his ferocity around the ground makes his team-mates stand tall.

Tom Mills

Despite a season with relatively few standout moments, the intensity of finals football is likely to suit his style of play. Finals are based on making the most of important moments and he is the candidate for the Rats to be anything on the day.

Nick and Dan Mendes

This brotherly combination is a mighty asset for the Rats and if Dan is back for the finals, will lead to a considerable reshuffle of the team’s midfield.

Both are major reasons the Rats have done well this year.

Tom Mills

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39

Southern Mallee Giants

WFL Finals

Southern Mallee Giants’ road to the finals Coach: Coleman Schache

Round 1: W. 16.14 (110) d Warrack Eagles 10.7 (67). Away.

Round 2: L. 10.10 (70) lost to Minyip-Murtoa 13.7 (85). Hopetoun.

Round 3: L. 7.7 (49) lost to Horsham 12.12 (84).

Away.

Round 4: W. 15.13 (103) d Ararat 10.4 (64). Beulah.

Round 5: Bye. Round 6: W. 14.18 (102) d Stawell 4.7 (31). Beulah.

Round 7: L. 6.7 (43) lost to Horsham Saints 14.14 (98). Away.

Round 8: W. 26.22 (178) d Dimboola 2.3 (15).

Hopetoun.

Round 9: W. 21.19 (145) d Nhill 3.5 (23). Away.

Round 10: W. 14.14 (98) d Warrack Eagles 6.8 (44). Hopetoun.

Round 11: W. 12.10 (82) d Minyip-Murtoa 6.5 (41). Away.

Round 12: W. 13.8 (86) d Horsham 11.1 (67).

Beulah.

Round 13: W. 17.15 (117) d Ararat 11.8 (74).

Away.

Round 14: Bye. Round 15: W. 11.18 (84) d Stawell 9.5 (59). Away.

Round 16: L. 4.9 (33) lost to Horsham Saints 6.7 (43). Beulah. ** Round 17: W. 29.19 (193) d Dimboola 5.3 (33).

Away. * Round 18: W. 23.20 (158) d Nhill 8.2 (50). Hopetoun. * Highest score ** Lowest score Total: Won: 12. Lost: 4. For: 1651. Against: 878.

Points: 56. Percentage: 188.04.

Leading goal-kickers

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Giants W

BY DAVID JOHNS

immera Football League fans expected competition newcomer Southern Mallee Giants to quickly make an impression and become a pacesetter – and they have proven as much.

Sam Weddell

Ben Webster 31, Brock Orval 25, Haydn Drew 25.

In fact the Giants, after a highly competitive year, are the only side to finish where 3WM’s Local Football Live commentary team predicted at the start of the season. The overall picture provided by the Giants in the competition is that they have added new faces and fresh spice to the league and now even rival Horsham as the team everyone else wants to beat.

Early season form suggested the Giants might only be simply competitive without being outstanding – but quickly spurred on, perhaps awakened, to what Wimmera football was all about.

As the year progressed, the Giants adjusted their structures and intensity to be, overall, the best team on paper in the competition. The Giants, when opposition sides let them play the way they want, move the ball better than any other side in the league. As a result they can score freely and often.

What some of us have noticed is that when the Giants have come up against teams that structure up strongly and slow them down, they become vulnerable.

This has never been more evident than in the two games the team has lost against Horsham Saints.

The advantage the Giants have over other top five sides in the finals is the ability to be able to change their structures on the fly. The team has an abundance of versatile utility players who appear at home in various positions and roles. This flexibility is the envy of most other teams in the competition and is a significant advantage in finals football.

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Southern Mallee Giants

meet expectations

Players to watch James Wray Elusive across half forward and great user of the ball.

Brings many of his team-mates into the game.

A serious player to watch when the ball is anywhere near him and the goals are beckoning.

Coach Coleman Schache’s on-field leadership also sets a competition benchmark. His ability to draw his team-mates into following his direction is second-tonone.

He is also a talented ball-winner in his own right.

Athletic Sam Weddell across half back provides a relentless attack on the ball as a major intercept-marking rebounder. Weddell sets up a lot of springboard play for the Giants but will need support in this area in the pressure of finals football. Other running players include James Wray, whose class and ball use has come to the fore as the season has progressed.

Rover Clint Burdett has also hit late-season form after coming back into the side, changing the dimension and adding pace and smarts to the Giants’ midfield. Then there is the bullocking toughness of Tyler Lehmann who is a rugged element to the game, for which Mallee football is renowned. Lehmann is great to watch.

Webster brothers Ben and Josh are utilities at home at either end of the ground, Haydn Drew has featured in the best players all year and Sam White is a dangerous forward who can kick multiple goals. And then there’s Reece McNally, who helps an A-grade on-ball fleet get first use of the ball and the ever-damaging Brock Orval pushing forward with every opportunity.

In short, the Giants are holding all the weapons needed for the finals and playing on the big day in September is all before them.

Holding up a Wimmera league premiership cup would be a staggering achievement for this outfit, which has taken all before it since its historic formation through merger. Can they win the flag? Yes, they can. Will they find it tough? Yes, they will.

Sam Weddell The leader of the Giants’ defensive six. Important with his intercepting and ball use that creates space for the Giants further down the ground. A probing left footer who meets challenges head on.

Brock Orval The finals are waiting for Orval. A player who loves the big stage and can quickly kick four or five and win a game off his own boot. Opposition defenders beware.

Tyler Lehmann The Mallee bull who provides the muscle for the Giants through the middle. Hard to beat in oneon-one contests and another who wins the hard football to free up team-mates.

Coleman Schache

Southern Mallee Giants FNC We would like to thank our sponsors, members and supporters for their support over the 2018 season and into the finals series.

Our club wouldn’t be able to achieve all that we have without you all. Wishing all teams the best of luck in the finals.

Let it be injury free!

Please support our sponsors: • Bow Bakery • Brad Petschel Auto Elec • Bull & Mouth Hotel • Cambacanya Browns Gypsum • Cheryl’s Café • Complete Auto & Ag • Conways Pies • Cropsmart • Dunn Ezy Seed Cleaning

• Eloora Hardware • Emmetts Warracknabeal • feet first footwear • Flexigrain • Gendio Weighbridges • Hopetoun Bulk Storage • Hopetoun Community Hotel • Hopetoun Fuel & Nursery

r o i n e S / Junior & l l a b t o Fo b u l C l l a Netb unt o C e t Vo Wednesday, August 29, 2018

• Hopetoun IGA • Hopetoun Newsagency • Hopetoun Post Office • Horsham Lanes and Games • Johnson Asahi Hay Exporters • Ladbrokes • Liston Newton Advisory • Marshman Tyre & Auto

• McGee Electrical • Mallee Pharmacy • Mildura Finance • Mogas • Naylor Agencies • North West Ag Services • O’Connors Farm Machinery • Peter Poulton Automotive

• Project Kels Hair Salon • Restoration Alley • Riordan Hay Contracting • Sassi Beauty Bar & Hair • Shannon Bros • Shelton & Lane • Southern Mallee Diesel • Southern Mallee Seed Grading • SprayJoe

Sunday 23rd September 2018 10.30am start at Beulah TO OUR AMAZING SPONSORS, YOU ARE INVITED TO JOIN US TO SAY A HUGE THANK YOU FOR YOUR ONGOING SUPPORT!

Meat provided for lunch but please bring a salad.

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Go the Giants!

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41

Horsham Demons

WFL Finals

Horsham’s road to the finals Coach: Deek Roberts Round 1: W. 13.19 (97) d Horsham Saints 8.4 (52). Home.

Round 2: W. 25.16 (166) d Dimboola 3.4 (22).

Away.

Round 3: W. 12.12 (84) d Southern Mallee Giants 7.7 (49). Home.

Round 4: W. 11.18 (84) d Warrack Eagles 9.10 (64). Away.

Round 5: W. 9.8 (62) d Minyip-Murtoa 5.11 (41).

Home.

Round 6: W. 26.8 (164) d Nhill 5.9 (39). Home.

Round 7: W. 16.12 (108) d Ararat 10.11 (71).

Away.

Round 8: Bye. Round 9: W. 11.14 (80) d Stawell 10.8 (68). Home.

Round 10: L. 5.3 (33) lost to Horsham Saints 8.13 (61). Away. ** Round 11: W. 26.22 (178) d Dimboola 2.1 (13).

Home. * Round 12: L. 11.1 (67) lost to Southern Mallee Giants 13.8 (86). Away.

Round 13: W. 16.11 (107) d Warrack Eagles 14.7 (91). Home.

Round 14: W. 14.8 (92) d Minyip-Murtoa 10.5 (65). Away.

Round 15: W. 15.16 (106) d Nhill 9.8 (62). Away.

Round 16: W. 17.13 (115) d Ararat 5.6 (36). Home.

Round 17: Bye. Round 18: W. 25.16 (166) d Stawell 8.2 (50).

Away. * Highest score * * Lowest score Total: Won: 14. Lost: 2. For: 1709. Against: 870.

Points: 64. Percentage: 196.44.

Proudly brought to you by:

Demons W

BY DAVID JOHNS

immera Football League reigning premier Horsham will enter this year’s finals series as a surprising competition yardstick.

Pre-season predictions were that the Demons would be sitting at the bottom of the top five or outside, but that has certainly proven far from what has happened.

The reason for the early doubt in Horsham’s ability to defend its premiership title was that the Demons had more than 20 clearances on the books and its list appeared decimated.

Thoughts were consistent across the league that this year might be the season that Horsham, for the first time in many years, wouldn’t be challenging for the title in September.

But the Demons have again proved hard to beat, with results punctuated by the fact the team has finished minor premier.

Based simply on form across the year and a top-of-the-table finish, Horsham rates as the premiership favourite.

The Demons have been the most consistent side all year, however, leading into the finals Horsham’s form has been patchy, mainly due to injuries to key personnel such as John Wood, coach Deek Roberts and a variety of niggles through several leading senior players.

And the question remains – is the relatively inexperienced bottom half of Horsham’s senior list going to be able to stand up to finals pressure and intensity?

Outside watchers have pinpointed that while Horsham’s top eight players and spread down the spine easily rate among the best in the competition, there is inexperience and potential vulnerability on the fringes.

Against this, throughout the season, Horsham’s young crop has proven doubters, including me, wrong all year.

Roberts has been instrumental in setting the standard for much of the season but he’s out of action and that has placed considerable pressure on players such as Brodie Mines and Ryan Kemp.

Rhona Conboy

Leading goal-kickers Ryan Kemp 71, Jordyn Burke 23, Brodie Mines 22.

Horsham Football Netball Club We would like to thank all our current sponsors for their support over the 2018 season • ACE RADIO

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42

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Go Dees Wednesday, August 29, 2018

Proudly brought to you by:

WFL Finals

answer critics Kemp, so good in last year’s grand final, appears cherry ripe for roaming commission and has featured prominently in the past few games.

Whether Roberts’ absence represents a weakness in the line-up remains to be seen. The Demons have kept winning without him.

Jordyn Burke, Billy Carberry and Alex Harfield are warriors in the midfield mix.

Burke will be important as a marking target and bringing smaller team-mates into the game.

Brad Hartigan looms large in any finals campaign. He is set to be the general for the Demons and his example will be critical for Horsham defending its title.

Much of the overall Horsham game rides on the back of the likes of players such as Ben Lakin, who has had a stellar season rebounding from half back, and Rhona Conboy, whose overall on-field leadership is second to none.

It’s important to note the Demons go in as minor premiers despite having a reserves team that has struggled all year.

This is reflective of the club’s willingness to draw on an overall list and give opportunities to four or five under-17s to cut their teeth at senior level.

Can Horsham win the premiership again? I think they will be there on the last day, but the four other highly rated teams will have something to say about that.

One thing the Wimmera league has given us all year is uncertainty on game days.

Favourites have turned out on a few occasions not to be such great favourites.

A big question for Horsham is whether a rest this week and perhaps another one in the finals will do the Demons more harm than good?

They might play three games in six weeks. We’ll wait and see.

Horsham Demons

Players to watch Ryan Kemp Best small forward in the competition who can also pinch-hit through the midfield and turn a game within minutes. A recognised goal-kicker who is also at home running the ball, breaking lines or matching it in midfield clinches.

Ben Lakin Can play either a shut-down role on an opposition’s best forward or be an intercept player across half back, creating many a forward thrust for the Demons. In outstanding form and a primary architect in Horsham wins this year.

John Wood Came back from injury this season. In big games, this talented utility is a player to watch. High-marking and deftly skilled, Wood creates a constant headache for opposition defenders. A prolific goal-kicker when on song.

Jordyn Burke

Brad Hartigan Former coach who continues to lead by example.

Is the most important cog in Horsham’s midfield in the absence of Deek Roberts. Crucial in winning the hard ball in stoppages and releasing the ball to outside runners.

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Page

43

Horsham Saints

WNA Finals

Horsham Saints’ road to the finals Coach: Shannon Reinheimer Round 1: L. 37 lost to Horsham 68. Away.

Round 2: L. 34 lost to Ararat 51. Home.

Round 3: Bye. Round 4: W. 64 d Stawell 53. Home.

Round 5: W. 57 d Nhill 40. Away.

Round 6: L. 58 lost to Dimboola 60. Away.

Round 7: L. 55 lost to Southern Mallee Giants 60.

Home.

Round 8: L. 30 lost to Warrack Eagles 59. Away. ** Round 9: W. 51 d Minyip-Murtoa 42. Home.

Round 10: W. 62 d Horsham 61. Home.

Round 11: L. 51 lost to Ararat 52. Away.

Round 12: Bye. Round 13: W. 82 d Stawell 51. Away.

Round 14: W. 84 d Nhill 46. Home. * Round 15: W. 83 d Dimboola 58. Home.

Round 16: W. 77 d Southern Mallee Giants 42. Away.

Round 17: L. 50 lost to Warrack Eagles 61. Home.

Round 18: L. 51 lost to Minyip-Murtoa 69. Away. * Highest score ** Lowest score Total: Won: 8. Lost: 8. For: 926. Against: 873. Points: 40. Percentage: 106.07.

Back to strength

W

immera Netball Association reigning A Grade premiers Horsham Saints have squeezed into the finals after a topsyturvy season battling significant playerunavailability issues.

The team appears vulnerable in the finals but is starting to look strong on paper. A Grade coach Shannon Reinheimer has provided insight into the Saints’ trials and tribulations this season.

At what stage did you believe you had an A Grade team capable of playing finals?

Reinheimer: “During our pre-season, we always knew that looking at our team list we had the players to make it through to finals. However, that vision changed at the start of the season with injuries and players absent due to other sporting commitments. The second half of the season was more positive, with players returning and allowing us to have a full squad to pick from. We have started to all gel at the right time of the season.”

What do you consider have been the major hurdles in getting your team to the finals and how did you overcome them?

Reinheimer: “Injuries and unavailability of players has been our biggest hurdle this year.

We have been constantly short, which has meant juggling players between A and B grades, which unsettled our girls early in the season. Coming into finals, we have a full squad available and have been able to settle.”

What does your team have to do to get into a position to play off in a grand final?

Reinheimer: “We will take a week-by-week ap-

2018

Silver Saints

Dinner

Friday, September 14, 2018 @ 6pm at Coughlin Park Clubrooms

Jimmy “The Ghost” Jess Come along and listen to Jimmy recount his tales of playing in the golden era for the Tigers, including the 1980 premiership.

An opportunity for all Tigers fans and footy fans in general.

Funds raised go towards Silver Saints junior development programs. $55 per ticket – 2-course meal included Tickets must be purchased prior to Monday 10th.

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Contact Stacey Ballinger 0427 149 812 or Mark Clyne 0499 924 473 for details 44

proach into the finals. Each team in the top five has very different strategies, and we will take this into account when choosing who takes the court and what positions they play.”

Who have been your key players, leaders, mentors and so on who have helped you get to the finals and what have they done that has impressed you as a coach?

Reinheimer: “We have a young squad this year with an average age of 18. Ash Grace and myself lead our midcourt truly and provide drive and support for our younger players. We have very young goalies in Maggie Caris, Lavinia Fox and Abby Hallam, who are accurate and play at a high level. Our defence end is also strong, with Rene Caris, Ellie Barnett, Tara Jasper, Gabby O’Brien and Holly Ross – our junior development player – who all work hard to shut down the opposition attack.”

From structural, physical and psychological points of view, what are the strengths you can exploit in your team and what are the weaknesses you have to overcome?

Reinheimer: “We all have to unite as a team and play our best netball no matter what combination we have on the court. Last year’s premiership and the journey we had to win on the big day is a great psychological advantage to reflect back on and motivate the whole team and give us the belief that we can do it again.”

Abby Hallam

Wimmera Football League Qualifying Final

at Horsham City Oval on Saturday, September 1 Starting times:

Seniors: Reserves: Under 17: Under 14:

2.20pm 12.30pm 10.45am 9.10am

Football Southern Mallee Giants v Ararat Horsham Saints v Ararat Stawell v Horsham Demons Horsham Saints v Horsham Demons NETball

with Guest Speaker

Page

Proudly brought to you by:

A Grade: B Grade: C Grade: 17 & Under: 15 & Under A: 15 & Under B: 13 & Under:

3.30pm 2.15pm 1.15pm Noon 11.00am 10.00am 9.00am

Horsham Demons v Minyip Murtoa Ararat v Horsham Demons Ararat v Horsham Saints Horsham Demons v Horsham Saints Stawell v Ararat Horsham Saints v Stawell Horsham Saints v Nhill

Elimination Final

at Davis Park, Nhill on Sunday, September 2 Seniors: Reserves: Under 17: Under 14:

2.20pm 12.30pm 10.45am 9.10am

Football Horsham Saints v Warrack Eagles Southern Mallee Giants v Nhill Nhill v Horsham Saints Warrack Eagles v Dimboola NETball

A Grade: B Grade: C Grade: 17 & Under: 15 & Under A: 15 & Under B: 13 & Under:

3.30pm 2.15pm 1.15pm Noon 11.00am 10.00am 9.00am

Ararat v Horsham Saints Warrack Eagles v Stawell Stawell v Minyip-Murtoa Ararat v Southern Mallee Giants Dimboola v Horsham Saints Minyip-Murtoa v Ararat Warrack Eagles v Ararat

For disabled parking and inquiries phone 5381 0134.

No bookings will be taken after 5pm Friday. www.theweeklyadvertiser.com.au

Wednesday, August 29, 2018

WNA Finals Fighting back Proudly brought to you by:

Ararat Rats

Ararat’s road to the finals Coach: Donna Spalding Round 1: W. 56 d Stawell 31. Home.

A

rarat is a traditional giant in Wimmera Netball Association but has had to climb its way back up the ladder and in the process has endured a tough season, winning 10 games but losing five.

The Weekly Advertiser asked A Grade coach Donna Spalding to provide insight into the Rats’ resurgence.

At what stage did you believe you had an A Grade team capable of playing finals?

Spalding: “It was probably at the end of the first round of matches when I knew we could make a return back to the finals after a two-year absence. Our draw against Horsham in round seven gave the girls some self-belief.”

What do you consider have been the major hurdles in getting your team to the finals and how did you overcome them?

Spalding: “Our second round didn’t go to plan. We had a chance to stay in the top three, however two of our key players were injured prior to the Warracknabeal match – centre Kate Bligh and goal shooter Tahnee Walker. This was a massive blow because both players are hard to replace. If we had won against Minyip-Murtoa in round 15 we would have cemented third spot on the ladder.”

What does your team have to do to get into a position to play off in a grand final?

Spalding: “My game plan has been consistent because it suits the players we have

on the court. Potentially this team could go all the way if we have our strongest seven on the court doing their job.”

Round 2: W. 51 d Horsham Saints 34. Away.

Round 3: W. 57 d Dimboola 34. Home. * Round 4: W. 53 d Southern Mallee Giants 49. Away.

Who have been your key players, leaders, mentors and so on who have helped you get to the finals and what have they done that has impressed you as a coach?

Round 5: L. 46 lost to Warrack Eagles 60.

Home.

Round 6: L. 22 lost to Minyip-Murtoa 44.

Away. **

Spalding: “Our key players have included vice-captain Kate Bligh, mainly in the centre. She brings a wealth of experience to this team and her passing into the circle is exceptional. Krystal Fisher, goal defence, is an agile player who has excellent reach.

She is a true competitor who has won games for us this season. Our captain Jess Williamson gives 100 percent every game and uses her speed well to make herself available down the court. Goal shooter Tahnee Walker is our most experienced player and worked well with first-year player and goal attack Tayla Borrelli. Both players have shot accurately this season.”

Round 7: D. 48 drew with Horsham 48.

Home.

Round 8: W. 55 d Nhill 26. Home.

Round 9: Bye. Round 10: W. 55 d Stawell 29. Away.

Round 11: W. 52 d Horsham Saints 51.

Home.

Round 12: W. 54 d Dimboola 42.

Away.

Round 13: W. 52 d Southern Mallee Giants 33. Home.

Round 14: L. 31 lost to Warrack Eagles 51. Away.

Round 15: L. 41 lost to Minyip-Murtoa 52. Home.

From structural, physical and psychological points of view, what are the strengths you can exploit in your team and what are the weaknesses you have to overcome?

Spalding: “Our team is a blend of both experience and youth. The players show a sense of care for each other on and off the court. They know that there is no ‘I’ in team.”

Round 16: L. 37 lost to Horsham 59. Away.

Round 17: W. 44 d Nhill 34. Away.

Round 18: Bye. * Highest score ** Lowest score Total: Won: 10. Lost: 5. Draw: 1. For: 754. Against: 687. Points: 46. Percentage: 109.75.

Kate Bligh

ARARAT FOOTBALL NETBALL CLUB The AFNC wish all Clubs, Teams and Players the best of luck for the finals.

The AFNC would like to sincerely thank our players, club volunteers and Corporate Sponsors for their generous support during the 2018 season.

Presentation Dinner Junior Netball and Football When: Sunday September 30, 2018 Where: Alexandra Oval Function Centre from 11am

Proudly supported by:

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Senior Netball and Football When: Friday October 12, 2018 Where: Alexandra Oval Function Centre from 6pm $40 pre paid or $50 at door.

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Page

45

WNA Finals Desire to win

Proudly brought to you by:

Minyip-Murtoa Burras

Minyip-Murtoa’s road to the finals Coach: Claire Drum Round 1: W. 54 d Dimboola 41. Murtoa.

Round 2: W. 54 d Southern Mallee Giants 26. Away.

Round 3: W. 42 d Warrack Eagles 40. Minyip.

Round 4: W. 62 d Nhill 22. Away.

Round 5: L. Minyip-Murtoa 37 lost to Horsham 55.

Away. **

Round 6: W. 44 d Ararat 22. Murtoa.

Round 7: Bye. Round 8: W. 56 d Stawell 27. Minyip.

Round 9: L. 42 lost to Horsham Saints 51. Away.

Round 10: W. 64 d Dimboola 49. Away.

Round 11: W. 55 d Southern Mallee Giants 26.

Minyip.

Round 12: L. Warrack Eagles 45 lost to MinyipMurtoa 42.

Round 13: W. 59 d Nhill 32. Murtoa.

Round 14: L. 44 lost to Horsham 59. Minyip.

Round 15: W. 52 d Ararat 41. Away.

Round 16: Bye. Round 17: W. 71 d Stawell 35. Away. * Round 18: W. 69 d Horsham Saints 51. Murtoa. * Highest score ** Lowest score Total: Won: 12. Lost: 4. For: 847. Against: 622.

Points: 56. Percentage: 136.17.

M

inyip-Murtoa has had to pick up the pieces after deathknock grand-final disappointment in Wimmera Netball Association last year.

The Burras have continued to be a force this year, winning 12 of their 15 games, and now confront another testing finals series. With teams preparing for the end-of-season playoffs, The Weekly Advertiser asked Burras coach Claire Drum for her thoughts.

At what stage did you believe you had an A Grade team capable of playing finals?

Drum: “From the start we had faith that we could make finals. We had all but one of last year’s team available and were fortunate to pick up Georgia McLennan to replace injured Jessie Elder.”

What do you consider have been the major hurdles in getting your team to the finals and how did you overcome them? What are the biggest hurdles now you are in the finals?

Drum: “Losing two of our three strong defenders to season-ending injuries has been a challenge but we have been fortunate to bring back Bianca Drum and bring up Stacey Arnold from B Grade. Both players have stepped into the team well and have added their own skills.”

What does your team have to do to get into a position to play off in a grand final?

Drum: “It’s pretty simple really – win all our games. Each of the teams in the finals has its own style, so we have to play to negate them while also playing our own game strongly.”

Who have been your key players, leaders,

mentors and so on w h o have helped you get to the finals?

Drum: “All memb e r s of the team have worked hard to improve themselves.

Paula Wiedermann as captain has led the team well and taken on the load of working with two new defensive partners while lifting her own game. Kirby Knight remains strong in goals and is well supported by both Maddi Morgan and Georgia McLennan. Our centre court of Ash Knight, Billie Bibby and Laura Delahunty, as well as Georgia, continually strive to improve.”

From structural, physical and psychological points of view, what are the strengths you can exploit in your team and what are the weaknesses you have to overcome to be successful in the finals?

Drum: “With the results of the past three years, A Grade has a stronger desire to finish the season positively and has been working hard on strengthening our team confidence, skills, adaptability and structure.

How do you see the short and long-term future of netball at your club?

Drum: “The club has had excellent results in seniors in the past four years. We have a great junior program where development has been the focus, closely tied with the enjoyment of the game. Continual coach, umpire and player development will strengthen the game.”

Georgia McLennan

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Wednesday, August 29, 2018

WNA Finals

Proudly brought to you by:

Horsham Demons

Tough opponents A

perennial Wimmera Netball Association powerhouse, Horsham has such a reputation that it is the team everyone else loves to beat.

But historically those opportunities have been far and few between, with the Demons consistently producing quality flagship teams.

This year the Demons have snapped close at the heels of competition leaders Warrack Eagles, winning all but two home-and-away games. The Weekly Advertiser asked coach Pauline Butler how the season had unfolded and what she expected come finals.

At what stage did you believe you had an A Grade team capable of playing finals?

Butler: “At the end of our team selection process, I thought we had a pretty good side and a lot of flexibility with girls being able to play multiple positions. Without knowing what other sides had recruited like in the off season you just never know, but after the first round I was confident that we would make the final five.”

What do you consider have been the major hurdles in getting your team to the finals and how did you overcome them? What are the biggest hurdles now you are in the finals?

Butler: “Probably the biggest hurdle for us with such a flexible side was finding out which combinations were required to win certain games.

Obviously injury is always a concern but I am confident we have the depth to cover this.”

What does your team have to do to get into a position to play off in a grand final?

Butler: “We will need to bring our A game and

play out four consistent quarters. Our approach will be the same. With each team we play we will need to look at how we shut down key players and this will differ from side to side.”

Who have been your key players, leaders, mentors and so on who have helped you get to the finals?

Butler: “All players have impressed me this year. Each player has stood up when required. They all have the ability to play multiple positions and they adjust well to changes very quickly. I will be looking at all my players to stand up in the finals and will expect them to play their role and work together as a team.”

From structural, physical and psychological points of view, what are the strengths you can exploit in your team and what are the weaknesses you have to overcome to be successful in the finals?

Butler: “We will need to look at each opposition each week and look at how we can shut down their game plan. We will be looking at how we can exploit weaknesses and adapt to change. I am confident our team will adjust when required.”

How do you see the short and long-term future of netball at your club?

Butler: “I believe our club has one of the best junior development programs going around.

Our coaches all work together to ensure girls transitioning through to the next grade or who are called upon to play in a higher grade are equipped with the relevant knowledge and skills to be successful.”

Horsham’s road to the finals Coach: Pauline Butler Round 1: W. 68 d Horsham Saints 37. Home.

Round 2: W. 67 d Dimboola 43. Away.

Round 3: W. 68 d Southern Mallee Giants 40. Home.

Round 4: L. 37 lost to Warrack Eagles 47. Away. ** Round 5: W. 55 d Minyip-Murtoa 37. Home.

Round 6: W. 66 d Nhill 33. Home.

Round 7: D. 48 drew with Ararat 48. Away.

Round 8: Bye. Round 9: W. 73 d Stawell 30. Home.

Round 10: L. 62 lost to Horsham Saints 60. Away.

Round 11: W. 72 d Dimboola 40. Home.

Round 12: W. 84 d Southern Mallee Giants 31.

Away. *

Round 13: W. 55 d Warrack Eagles 53. Home.

Round 14: W. 59 d Minyip-Murtoa 44. Away.

Round 15: W. 72 d Nhill 31. Away.

Round 16: W. 59 d Ararat 37. Home.

Round 17: Bye. Round 18: W. 81 d Stawell 37. Away. * Highest score ** Lowest score

Casey Jess

Total: Won: 13. Lost: 2. Draw: 1. For: 1025. Against: 650. Points: 62. Percentage: 157.69.

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Page

47

WNA Finals A potent force

Proudly brought to you by:

Warrack Eagles

Warrack Eagles’ road to the finals Coaches: Sarah Spicer, Jane Richardson

T

here has been little doubt for much of Wimmera Netball Association’s A Grade year that Warrack Eagles are one of the teams to beat for this year’s flag.

Round 1: W. 71 d Southern Mallee Giants 12. Anzac Park.

Round 2: W. 50 d Nhill 31. Away.

Round 3: L. 40 lost to Minyip-Murtoa 42. Away.

The Eagles have a high-quality line-up, a group that has produced 14 wins for the season.

A Grade coach Jane Richardson provided The Weekly Advertiser with a snapshot of her thoughts on why the Eagles have done well and what the future holds.

At what stage did you believe you had an A Grade team capable of playing finals?

Richardson: “When we were selecting sides in our pre-season we thought the team we put together had a really good chance of making finals. Most of the girls had played together during the past few years and knew each other’s games well.”

What do you consider have been the major hurdles in getting your team to the finals and how did you overcome them? What are the biggest hurdles now you are in the finals?

Richardson: “Trying to keep our playing list fit for the season and just managing workloads has been something we have had to work on. It’s something we continually try to manage.”

What does your team have to do to get into a position to play off in a grand final?

Richardson: “Consistency is something we have worked on since last year when we thought our games could be a little inconsistent.”

Who have been your key players, leaders,

**

Round 4: W. 47 d Horsham 37. Anzac Park.

Round 5: W. 60 d Ararat 46. Away.

Round 6: Bye. Round 7: W. 81 d Stawell 21. Away.

Round 8: W. 59 d Horsham Saints 30. Anzac Park.

Round 9: W. 75 d Dimboola 37. Away.

Round 10: W. 89 d Southern Mallee Giants 20.

Away. *

Round 11: W. 81 d Nhill 6. Anzac Park.

Round 12: W. 45 d Minyip-Murtoa 42. Brim.

Round 13: L. 53 lost to Horsham 55. Away.

Round 14: W. 51 d Ararat 31. Brim.

Round 15: Bye. Round 16: W. 68 d Stawell 24. Anzac Park.

Round 17: W. 61 d Horsham Saints 50. Away.

Round 18: W. 62 d Dimboola 29. Anzac Park.

Emma Koschitzke

* Highest score ** Lowest score Total: Won: 14. Lost: 2. For: 993. Against: 513.

Points: 64. Percentage: 193.57.

mentors and so on who have helped you get to the finals?

Richardson: “Our captain Emma Koschitzke has been an outstanding leader for us. Her work ethic at training and on game day leads the way for the rest of the group. Megan Werner has also been a key player this year. She has been a real focal point in and around goals. Briodi McKenzie has also been impressive and she and Megan have developed into a really exciting combination in goals. Penny Fisher has continued to perform well and will be instrumental in our finals campaign. For on-court leaders we can’t go past having Sarah Spicer back in the team after her knee reconstruction last year. She is a game changer.”

From structural, physical and psychological points of view, what are the strengths you can exploit in your team and what are the weaknesses you have to overcome to be successful in the finals?

Richardson: “Most of our team has played together for the past few years so that knowledge of each other’s games will certainly be a strength. We also pride ourselves on our strong all-court defence.”

How do you see the short and long-term future of netball at your club?

Richardson: “We have pretty good numbers in our senior teams and our juniors are rebuilding after a few years of low numbers. Our net set go program has good numbers though so hopefully we can keep these girls interested in netball in the future.”

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