Round 3 review
Kings v Shore (at Gowen Brae)
This will be the upset of the round. Kings have been hammered in posts for the past 4 weeks but few gave them credit for meeting the top 2 sides first up.
With both teams having sustained losses in Rounds 1 & 2 it will be a test of the 'emotional intelligence' for these teams. Have they prepared well at their respective camps; Shore at Gold Coast and Kings at school?
My pick will be a very close game with Kings ahead due to better kicking (goal and general play).
Key players will be:
Kings: Kane, Davies, Ballantyne and McCalman
Shore: Clancy (2), Emery, Woodhill and Cooke
Scots v Riverview (at Bellevue Hill)
Teamwork will be the secret in the match. Scots have a star team on paper (which they also believe) and Riverview play as though they are all mates. Riverview will need to learn how to play their patterns with the Capt and VC out for next 4 weeks.
Scots may go into this clash with a false security on the result and they will need to be beware of the smaller opposition.
Key players will be:
Scots: Kellaway, Crichton, Kamp and Short
View: Mete, Freeman and McGregor.
Newington v Joeys (at Stanmore)
This match will be a little like the Stanmore game. That is, the fancied team will probably win but will need to earn the result.
The set piece will determine the outcome at Stanmore and if Joeys can win more than their fair share of ball they will go close to toppling the boys in white.
Key players will be:
Newington: Moeroa, Lussick, Cannell and Morris
Joeys: Sandell, Hanigan, Deegan and Cohen
Summary
All the rep players coming back from a grueling 3 week campaign will need to perform. Last year, some of the lads thought they just had to run on to the paddock to win and got rude surprises.
The rep players will also need to remember that many very good players were overlooked and are coming into Round 3 fresh and eager to show their talents.