Western Magpies travel to Surfers Paradise for their round 3 QAFL match in what shapes as a danger game for the visitors.
Reports indicate the Demons have several returning starts for the clash after a disappointing start which has seen them lose both matches to date quite comfortably. However the Surfers Paradise ground has been the downfall of the Magpies in the past and they will need to be switched on from the first bounce.
The Magpies will not want to have a slow start as happened against Sandgate and coach Glenn Humphrey will stress the importance of a disciplined approach to the game plan as well as to try to win the opening tussles to get off to a good start.
The Magpies will welcome the return of running half back Sean Mewing who will provide drive and dash from through the middle of the ground.
Tall forward Jaden Morton will also come into consideration after missing the opening rounds due to unavailability and if he plays with give the Magpies another option up forward.
Val Pope was back to his skilful best last match and his clean ball handling skills stood out and he along with Matt Thompson, full forward Matt Garland and youngster Ben Hooper, impressive in debut last round, will be the goal scoring options.
Redland based player Cory Hopkins, a Sherwood junior, found his feet last match to give plenty of drive form the midfield and Chris Judson was industrious in midfield as usual—better use of the ball by Chris would make him even more dangerous.
2012 premiership ruckman Dom Beer has returned to form after missing 2013 with a chronic ankle injury and it was when he got on top in the ruck against Sandgate that the Magpies fight back and eventual victory was instigated.
Ben Jaenke-Cain had arguably his best match for the Magpies’ last game and he along with the perennial Peter Kilroy will combine with mewing to provide a springboard for attack for across half back.
Hayden thick is arguably the best fullback in the QAFL and is rarely beaten and with sidekicks in teenager Doug Lawrence and Redland based Blaec Ablett provide the defensive muscle that will be decisive in curbing the Demons forwards.
The Magpies go into this clash as favourites but will need to be on their mettle against a desperate Surfers team looking for its first QAFL victory.
The Western Magpies Reserves will be aiming to remain undefeated when they play last year’s Division One premiers Surfers Paradise, who have a win and loss this season.
The Colts paly the top of the table Surfers Sharks which is made up of both Surfers and Southport players and will face a challenge to win. They improved last outing and will be aiming for further improvement on Saturday.
Last Modified on 26/04/2014 13:15