Division 2 Preview: Round 7

Anna Pavlou – @Annalyst_Sports

Yarra Old Grammarians have proven that they can hurt teams on the scoreboard, so it’s up to Eltham to shut them down from the middle and slow down the goal onslaught. Eltham are still looking for their first win and are relying on their younger players, Simpson and Robertson, to push through. The four points will be crucial for Yarra this week if they want to retain their spot in the top four. Watch out for Rangers goal kickers Hall and Scott.

The undefeated Old Paradians are looking to keep a clean record when they play Power House away from home. The House have played better football at home, but will need a consistent four quarter effort to avoid being run over. Leading Division 2 goalkicker, Michael Boundy, is a target for the Raider’s, so Gregory (Power House) and the backline must tighten up.

UHS-VU’s spread of goal kickers and around the ground support will prove a challenge for Bulleen who must figure out how to stop not one, not two, but a whole team of able contributors. UHS-VU have shown that they are a true finals competitor, and if they take the four points, they may just jump into the top two. Riding high after their big win over Power House, Bulleen will use their big ground to their advantage, as they have the legs to utilise its’ length. UHS-VU play best on a wide ground, so it will be an interesting encounter to see how they match up if they are forced to play long-bomb footy.

Both coming off disappointing losses, Melbourne High will be searching for the catalyst to lead them through what looks to be a tough battle. St Johns need to apply scoreboard pressure to genuinely compete in this match, while the Unicorns need the percentage boost if they want to overtake the Bushrangers in fourth position on the ladder. This could become the match of the round as both sides seem to be equal on field.

After their shock loss to UHS-VU last week, the Friars will want to get back on track and stay in the top 2. Emmaus St Leos, on the other hand, will want to make another push for top six and keep above the other lower-placed sides. Keep an eye out for the battle between Neate (Whitefriars) and Birkett (Emmaus) who are eager to add to their goals for season 2018.