Western Jets will make the trip north in search of its second win of the season as it takes on Queensland in Round 4 TAC Cup action, as Daniel Short reports.
The Jets have come up short on its past two outings, but coach Torin Baker is excited for the opportunity that Queensland represents.
Baker said this week’s preparation would be critical to getting the result given travelling interstate is a new experience for many of his squad.
“It’ll just be important that we prepare well,” Baker said.
“It’ll be a first for a lot of players in their footy experience.
“Some of them may not have travelled and played interstate before so we’ll need to make sure preparation is done well. But at the same time we’re picking an experienced group and we think they’re capable of going interstate and still being able to focus on the job.
“If you happen to be lucky enough to be drafted, especially if you go to an interstate club where you’ll be travelling every second week, I think it’s a good experience for the players.
“I think it can only be a good thing for their overall footy development.”
The Queensland camp is looking forward to a home clash after a solid 17-point win over the Northern Knights last weekend.
Coach Adrian Fletcher was pleased with aspects of the performance but stressed the group still had plenty to work on.
Fletcher also forecasting a stronger Queensland line-up for this weekend.
“They (Northern Knights) gave us a really solid contest with their tackling pressure; we need to get better at that side of it,” Fletcher said.
“But some of our ball movement was really impressive.
“The boys are getting the patterns right.
“You’ve got to take your kids to Melbourne; it’s the best thing for them. We don’t realize how these kids are fighting for spots in their local TAC Cup teams, there’s 100 kids there (vying for spots).
“We want a high intensity to make sure you hold your spot.”
In other Round 4 games:
Bendigo Pioneers vs Oakleigh Chargers
Friday night football hits Bendigo again this week, this time at TAC Cup level. The Pioneers struggled against Dandenong last weekend, going down by 61 points after a slow start allowing the Stingrays a nine-goal opening quarter. The Chargers pulled away from the Eastern Ranges in the second half to record its third win of the season, and is one of four clubs with three wins, albeit it has played an extra game.
Sandringham Dragons vs Northern Territory
Sandringham Dragons recorded its third win of the season over Western Jets courtesy of a dominant third term. The Dragons sit third of the table but do have the luxury of playing four matches for three wins. It takes on Northern Territory in its first run in the 2016 TAC Cup season.
Dandenong Stingrays vs NSW/ACT Rams
The Rams played with the sort of aggression and dare coach Tadhg Kennelly had forecast for three quarters last week, before a final term lapse nearly saw the Cannons pinch it. It will have another tough challenge on its hands this weekend as it takes on the undefeated Dandenong Stingrays. The Stingrays have gone from strength to strength since the start of the season and will be looking to keep its winning record intact.
Calder Cannons vs North Ballarat Rebels
Neither side has opened its account in 2016, but both have had opportunities. The Calder Cannons have suffered six and 12 point losses over the past two rounds, almost pulling off a remarkable comeback against NSW/ACT last week. Having trailed by 40 points at three quarter-time, the Cannons fell a goal short. The Rebels have been within reach in all its matches at half-time before fading. One side will take home its first win of the season.
Geelong Falcons vs Northern Knights
The Northern Knights are yet to claim victory, but its past two outings have been tight knit affairs. It will be hoping for a four quarter performance against the Falcons on Saturday. While the Geelong Falcons sit at 2-1 coming off a huge win over Gippsland Power. Its only loss has come against the undefeated Bushrangers, with the Falcons looking for another strong showing on its home ground of Simonds Stadium.
Eastern Ranges vs Tassie Mariners
Eastern Ranges couldn’t stay with the Chargers in the second half, falling away to succumb to its first loss of the season. But off the back of two promising early season performances, expect another good showing by the Ranges. It hosts the Tassie Mariners, who make the trip to Box Hill City Oval in what is sure to offer great exposure to the group.
Murray Bushrangers vs Gippsland Power (TAC Cup Radio)
The Murray Bushrangers had its closest encounter for the year in last weekend’s 13-point win over North Ballarat Rebels following two huge victories to start the year. Off the back of its strong form, the Bushrangers sit unbeaten and on top of the TAC Cup ladder. Its opponent, Gippsland Power is yet to record victory and is coming off a 93-point loss to the Falcons last weekend.
Click the link below for the full Round 4 teams.
Last Modified on 22/04/2016 16:57
