Ellinbank DFL Round 12 preview

The Cats chalked up its second win of the season last week when it was too strong for Lang Lang and will enter this week’s game confident as it only lost by three points to the Lyrebirds last time they meet. Since then there is plenty to suggest Neerim has improved by half a dozen goals. While Buln Buln have plenty of home grown talent it has managed to pick up quite a few handy recruits this season led by Tom Axford, Mat Notman, Adam Rakip not to forget Lex Wright who has been at the club a few years now but originally from Nilma Darnum.

As their ladder position suggests it is hard to thumb your nose up at the Saints. Under Fia Too Too in his first full season as coach Nyora has played with real unity and purpose. Many critics have questioned their depth but with the late arrival of Nick Fairbank and the transfer back to the club of Rory Gilliatte last week it is gradually strengthening this perceived weakness. Fair to say Gilliatte at 36 years of age will not have the mighty influence he was when he won the Trood-Rodda medal in 2006 but if still fit will be a solid pick up. Its opponents the Blues after an indifferent start look like they are starting to shift up a gear or two. Not surprisingly their mini-revival has coincided with the return of its star on baller Paul Pattison in recent weeks. Veteran utility Luke McFarlane, who many thought would be consigned to the reserves has also popped up with some level-headed games behind the centre in recent weeks to show he still has something to offer at senior level.

The Magpies have looked on the verge of taking a top scalp all season but despite many long periods of dominance just hasn’t kicked enough goals against the top four teams. Its leading goal kicker is small Jack Hazendonk (17) who is having an outstanding year. More goals may come if Ben Hancock returns but the big utility has only managed four games and without his presence it is hard to not pick the in-form visitors. The Crows midfielders have won plenty of kudos this season but a good deal of praise must also go to old warriors Ken Towt and Leigh McDonald while Ben Cuckson is another under rated performer that can fill spaces at short notice all over the field.

It has lost three games but there is still a lot to like about the Dusties. It has a disciplined defence top midfield but has kicked poorly on goal – however it gets the ball inside fifty. Tyson Bale continues to show tremendous grit and courage alongwith veteran trio of Shane Brewster, Tye Holland and Mick Ablett. Last week the Eagles would have been thrilled with the game of Tim Mashado as he has what they collectively lack – run and pace. Last time the sides met the Dusties won by 54 points