Division 2 Preview: Round 4

Anna Pavlou – @Annalyst_Sports

UHS-VU vs Old Paradians

The Vultures are on a roll, however this battle against Old Paradians should be an intense and close one considering both can kick big scores. The fast pace of the Vultures is something the Raiders can match across the whole ground, so expect a quick moving footy at both ends. It will come down to the pure skill around the contest and who can use their space better. The Raiders will need to keep an eye on Jackson in particular. Uni High will need to watch Cotter and Plunkett. It’s a tough pick, but UHS-VU have shown why they deserve their spot this season so far, so should take the chocolates.

Yarra Old Grammarians vs Emmaus St Leos

After both teams were defeated unfortunately last week, they’ll be rightfully eager to make amends and snatch the much-needed points. The Bushrangers know how to blast their opponents defence open with a variety of small and tall forwards, like Harbeck and Hall that’ll do the most damage. The Animals must stop their run on, but are better in and around the contest, thanks to the handy help from the Baranello boys around the ground. Yarra can win this one, but it will be a tight battle to follow closely.

MHSOB vs Bulleen Templestowe

Bulleen would be bitter after splitting the four points with the Jocs last week. MHSOB on the other hand will be eager to keep their name on the winners list as they attempt to cement an early final four spot. Both capable of kicking big scores, it will be up to each sides defence to determine the game. Watch out for the lesser-discussed Jordan and Hayes, who will be a danger to the Bullants, while Glenn Costas should lead his Bullants team again when they need it.

Power House vs Eltham Collegians

Both winless and both hungry to claim the four points up for grabs, Power House and Eltham will be working hard to prove their worth in Division 2. It could be a low scoring contest, as both teams are gritty around the ball and will rely heavily on the hard-ball plays to win the footy. This game will be won in the forward half and around the contests. Stubbs and Carroll will be key for Power House, while forward Robertson and Jinnette for Eltham can be the difference on the day.

St Johns vs Whitefriars

The Jocs have a major test ahead when they take on the top-of-the-table Whitefriars, who are averaging 141 points a game. Coming off a draw, the only change the Jocs need to make is fixing their slow starts, which sets up for the rest of the game. Whitefriars, on the other hand, should take the four points comfortably after showing for three consistent weeks that they are definite finals contenders. The Jocs need to keep tabs on James Campbell (4 last week) and Geilings (3 last week) as well as the consistent Michael Nitas. Overall, it should be a rough contest but the Friars are too experienced not to come out on top.