ROUND 18 PREVIEW: CATS v NOOSA
A big day at the Cattery tomorrow as Broadbeach fresh off a bye begin the final block of 4 matches of home and away matches. A reminder of the early start for the seniors of 1pm.
In their last outing, Broadbeach fought hard in trying conditions and a committed opposition to prevail against Palm Beach at Salk, with results also pleasingly going the Cats way in the earlier games.
2020 B&F winner Max LOWER led all comers on the ground with 33 possessions and 6 clearances, however best afield honours went to 100 game stalwart Brandon CHADWICK, who provided a heap of run on top of his 27 disposals and 4 clearances. Excellent performances by newcomer Alex MALONEY and Ben HANCOCK quelled the influence of the likes of Crossley, Crowley and Mcinenney. The Mayor MONCRIEFF worked tirelessly up the field and was rewarded for his efforts with 6 goals, and IRWIN continued his strong form with a couple and to go with strong work rate. BURTON and JASPER were back to their dangerous selves, kicking 3 and 2 respectively in an all round pleasing performance. Debutant Jacob WELSH added some physicality to the midfield which would have pleased those in attendance.
For tomorrow match against the battling Noosa, it will all come down to attitude. On paper the Cats should win but it’s a funny old game football and any opposition can be dangerous if given a sniff. Coach O’Brien will be looking for a committed first stanza, and for our experienced players to take control early in the game.
We welcome back several key players from injury this week. Lucas JELLYMAN-TURNER returns after missing close to 2 months, firstly after being rewarded for his excellent early season performances by being listed by and selected in the VFL for Aspley, and then unfortunately sustaining a hard injury. Ty ARMITAGE returns from an ankle injury, and Brad LOWE who was in great from early in the season also returns after a knee injury. Silky left footer Aussie HARRIS returns after Suns/allies duty and coach O’Brien is rapt to promote yet another Broadbeach junior to make his senior debut. Jared ECKERSLEY, a Qld under 17 squad member has been rewarded for hard work and good form and has earned his opportunity across half back. Good luck Jared!
Liam NELSON (ankle), Darcy IRWIN (ankle) are still a bit sore and have been managed for this game and LYONS, GROSE and WINTER have been omitted. James GLEDHILL is close to a return also, however the decision was made by player and club to take a conservative approach and hold him back for another week.
The development team also have a couple out but have still named a strong side. In a tight race towards the finals, the reserves can still sneak into second place and will be looking to win and win well tomorrow. Morningside currently occupy second spot and are 2 games and percentage ahead, however we play then in a fortnight and indeed the Panthers are yet to play the undefeated Labrador, so it is within reach, as long as the boys turn up to play and get it done tomorrow.
It is pretty simple for the colts, win or miss finals. Noosa were too good last time earlier in the season, however at the time personnel and numbers wise we were a touch thin and coach Crackers will be pleased to have 22 fit players this time around along with the availability of some key talent, including Jonah SEMMLER, who returns after a few weeks out injured. Match will commence after the seniors at 3:45 pm.
5th placed Broadbeach will play 4th placed Burleigh in the women’s game commencing at 5:30 pm which will be an interesting contest and the women’s development team will fancy their chances of a second win, likewise against Burleigh.
Good luck to all teams.