Sale City coach David Piasente says he is confident his side can go back-to-back against Yarram in this year’s North Gippsland Football League grand final.
Piasente told The Express the Bulldogs’ ball movement and ability to register quick goals under pressure were key areas his side would look to come Saturday.
But Piasente flagged the Demons’ ability to win contested possessions as an area his side would have to be cautious of.
“I’ve touched base with most of the players to see how their recovery is going and most of them are ready for one of the biggest games of their lives,” he said.
“Their recovery is the most important part of any finals series, you have to get yourself spot on to play against Yarram who are a bloody good side.”
Sale City won last year’s grand final in a 39-point blowout against Heyfield.
The Bulldogs have been unable to have a rest this finals series after losing to the Roos in the qualifying final by 13 points.
It followed consecutive wins against Churchill in the semi-final and last weekend in the preliminary against Heyfield.
“I took a lot of confidence out of our first final and while we didn’t win it, we know we can go a step higher and have a good chance at getting the flag this weekend,” Piasente said.
The Bulldogs will rely on the strength of Justin McClay and Tom Bowman in the backline while Matt Ferguson, Bohdi Walker and Stuart Buckley will stabilise the forward line with the assistance of Jacob Schuback and Brad McKay in the midfield.
It will be Yarram’s second finals game this year after an impressive nine-goal defeat against Heyfield in the semi-final.
The Demons will be without Matt Clavarino after he broke his leg in the side’s last game.
Yarram coach Chris Pettitt said there was a number of players he was considering calling up to the side.
“A key forward in Dylan Rash, Liam Bently a running half back, Luke Le Blanc, Jessie Field and Jacob Davis from the thirds are all on the cards at this stage,” Pettitt said.
The North Gippsland Football League grand final will be played at Traralgon Recreation Reserve on Saturday from 2.30pm.
