Division 6 Reserves - Two Sleeping Giants?
Brahma Lodge v Fitzroy
Arguably the match of the round, as the Tigers host the Lions in this highly anticipated clash between two sides with aspirations for finals action and success.
Brahma Lodge, after a shock Rd 1 loss, kick started their season last Round with a commanding 64 point victory over Trinity OS. Interestingly, almost identical to the corresponding fixture last season where the Tigers won that encounter by 63 points.
The return of association medalist Kurtis Smith to the Lodge B grade paid dividends, allowing Nick Hall to be freed up and rested when needed. Add the inclusions of Hickey, Taylor and Carling along with the dangerous Phil Hall finding a return to form (5 goals), made the Lodge a formidable force and they flexed their muscles.
Plenty of height around the ground, the Tigers have a good balance of height, goal kicking power and one of the more experienced midfield/half back lines to be a serious contender once again this season.
Fitzroy were the big talk in the off season after their heavy recruiting, but unfortunately this hasn't translated to on field success yet, their start to the season not made any easier by squaring off against both relegated clubs in the opening rounds in Elizabeth & Pulteney - both of which are expected to be amongst the action when the whips are cracking come season close.
Nick Capasso has been a consistent focal point for the Lions, with the forward so far attributing 40% of the 'Roys goals this season, while at the other end of the ground, Stotter and Bennett have been very good under the enormous pressure and weight of inside 50's from opposition sides and captain David Palmer has been tireless in his endeavor around the ground.
The Lions have experienced an unsettled lineup to start the year - having already used 27 players through the side - and will be hoping to lock down a more consistent side over the coming weeks if they're to live up to the hype pre-season and fire.
Despite the different starts to the season, both Brahma Lodge and Fitzroy appear on paper to match up quite well. Smith/Hall (BL) vs Lennon (FIT), Taylor (BL) v Bennett (FIT), Freeman (BL) v Stotter (FIT), Hickey (BL) v Wild (FIT) all crucial battles which will go along way to the outcome of this match.
Can Fitzroy win this away clash? Yes they can, but the question will be a matter of how they manage the tall timber of the Lodge while nullifying the impact of Leigh, Hickey, Burchall, Gehlkin and i particular the run off half back.
Team that can get out to a 3 goal buffer first will win this game, I fancy that'll be the Tigers - they play their ground better, and have more key personnel around the ground. Fitzroy will have their hands full cutting the supply to Freeman and Hall and that'll prove the difference.
Tip: Brahma Lodge 25 points