Division 2 Preview: Round 8

Anna Pavlou – @Annalyst_Sports

Emmaus St Leos vs St Johns

The Animals and St Johns are sides who will match up well, especially around the ball as the stoppages work might just decide this game. This will be a test of strength and the tem willing to put their head over the ball will prevail. If the Jocs find their feet in front of goal and take every opportunity early, then they are a chance. St Leos could beat them by packing the contests and clogging up the corridor, but St Johns will need to find a way out. Baranello is Mr Consistency for St Leos and St Johns need to find a way to curb his influence.

UHS-VU vs Eltham Collegians

Eltham were beaten by a better side last week, but should look to this week to improve and open up their scoring outlets from the middle and tighten up their defence. UHS-VU are eager to earn a percentage boost and overtake Whitefriars on the ladder, so will look to their key forwards for big bags of goals and defenders to shut down any opposition goal opportunities. Eltham could flourish on a smaller ground but should be aware that the Vultures love the wings and can hurt opposition with wide runs and carries. That being said, UHS-VU should take the four points, but it could be an opportunity for Eltham to show a bit of fight.

Yarra Old Grammarians vs Bulleen Templestowe

It’ll be interesting to see if Yarra Old Grammarians play a sling shot game against Bulleen, who, over the past three weeks, have proven themselves to be a scoring threat who can flatten their opponents in long, one-on-one contests. Watch this space for a high scoring affair, but both sides must be aware that their goals must come from clean, quick contest breaks. Dakin (Bulleen) vs the Trend boys (Bushrangers) is the match up to watch.

Old Paradians vs Whitefriars

This one is scheduled to be the game of the round as the two premierships favourites battle it out at the Raiders home in a match that may mirror one of the finals in 2018. Both high scoring and clean possession sides, it’ll be up to who can outlast the other and uphold their skill for a consistent four quarters. Watch for Nitas and Neate for the Friars in front of goal, who have now kicked nearly 60 between them in a matter of weeks. Boundy is the name to watch from Old Paradians, as he’ll be hungry to add to his collection.

MHSOB vs Power House

With MHSOB just outside the top four by percentage, they’ll be looking for a big boost against a Power House side who tested the waters in patches against the Raiders last week. MHSOB have a small ground, so Power House have the chance to play a man-on-man game and beat the Unicorns at ground level. MHSOB can run and carry very well, but must watch for congestion in the corridor. Both sides are up and down, but if the House can string together four, consistent and high-pressure quarters like their third last week, then they should be able to run over the Unicorns, but not without a fight.