Kate Withers
FOOTBALL
GIPPSLAND LEAGUE
Just two games will be played in the Gippsland League this weekend in the second half of the split round 16, kicking off with Saturday’s clash between archrivals Traralgon and Moe.
Both sides have plenty to play for and with just two weeks remaining in the season proper one win separates them on the senior ladder.
Moe are a game ahead in fourth spot and can shore up their position this weekend with a win over Traralgon.
The Maroons won the last encounter in round seven by 39 points and have the added advantage of playing on home turf this time around.
Traralgon coach Mark Collison said the split round had rejuvenated the playing group for this weekend’s crucial encounter with Moe.
“Obviously we have been pretty excited. We had a bye on the weekend and [have] been looking forward to getting on the track this week,” Collison said.
He said the side was “starting to get better” and cited its win over Drouin a fortnight ago as a promising sign.
“We had a really good win and I thought it was a really good effort from us,” he said.
The Maroons will also welcome back three key players from injury – Haydn Hector, Mitch Mustoe and Adam Jaensch.
“We’ve got some players available which is good and we’re pushing spots for a bit of competitiveness,” Collison said.
“It’s going to be hard this week – the side is completely different and they’re a really good side and are sitting fourth for a reason.
“They’re very capable of beating anyone so we’ll pay them the respect they deserve and put a bit of time into them but the main focus is producing our best footy because it’s clearly good.
“We’re pretty confident if we bring our best there’s no reason we can’t win.”
Warragul v Maffra
With a finals spot riding on the result of this weekend’s clash with Maffra, Warragul will be looking to use the home-ground advantage to full effect.
The Gulls sit in sixth spot on the Gippsland League senior ladder with eight wins for the season – behind Traralgon on percentage – and can move inside the five with a win this weekend.
They fell victim to Maffra in round seven to make it seven on the trot for the Eagles. The Eagles came to a halt in round 10 at the hands of Sale and again in round 13 to Leongatha and with everything to play for this weekend the Gulls are sure to will themselves into action on home turf.
