FOOTBALL
MID GIPPSLAND
With just two rounds remaining of the Mid Gippsland Football League regular season, Yallourn/Yallourn North has cemented its players as a finals favourite with a 128-point demolition of Boolarra on Saturday.
The Bombers are eight points clear of second-placed Yinnar at the top of the table.
Only percentage separates the Magpies and third-placed Thorpdale, while Trafalgar and Newborough round out the five.
In round 17 the MGFL under 16s teams will take part in an all abilities round which aims to give people with a disability the chance to experience local football.
Trafalgar’s massive first half lead against Newborough last round was enough to hold off a Bulldog fight back and it will be hoping for more of the same this round against Morwell East.
While the Hawks sit in seventh place, they are just one win behind fourth-placed Trafalgar.
The last time the two teams met in round eight they played out a thriller at Ronald Reserve, with Trafalgar clinching a one-point victory.
Boolarra v Newborough
After an up and down season, Newborough will use Saturday’s clash with Boolarra to find form after falling just short of a fairy tale comeback against Trafalgar last round.
With the Demons yet to register a win in season 2017 and the reigning premier eager to book its September spot, Newborough will go into the match confident.
The Demons will hope the Bulldog’s patchy form this season will provide an opportunity to please the home crowd.
Hill End v YYN
Hill End’s ability to play great football was showcased when it moved forward against Thorpdale last round.
But the Hill Men can expect their decision-making skills to be put to the test when they come up against Yallourn/Yallourn North.
The Bombers are on a roll and will see the match as an opportunity to lock in the minor premiership.
Thorpdale v Yarragon
Third plays ninth at Thorpdale Recreation Reserve when Thorpdale takes on Yarragon.
The Panthers started off well against Yinnar last week and led at the first change before falling away and slumping to a 118-point loss.
This round they face a tough challenge against a Blues outfit which has won three on the trot.
Mirboo North v Yinnar
Mirboo North will aim to put together four quarters of consistent football when it hosts Yinnar this round.
The Magpies have had some struggles in recent games and had to fight hard for their wins.
It will take hunger, grit and determination to hold the Tigers at bay this week but Yinnar has the quality to get the job done.
