Greetings from Isolation,
The Blues loss to the Cats was even more costly as an MCC member as I enter what was supposed to be the last couple of days of isolation. Unfortunately the bride replenished the larder from the wrong market so another week beckons. Sporting bodies are not immune to the isolation challenges with players withdrawn from the Sydney GWS game last week and others now also isolating. To a certain extent these situations challenge the sanctity of the competition along with the lifting and shifting of games to dodge restrictions and lockdowns. Glad they have done it though cause it’s a long week in isolation and no footy to watch makes it longer!
Now for the games put on make iso bearable.
If it ain’t Boak ($1.26) vs A bit Gooey ($4.70)
Not quite as much noise as Jack but no less an achievement for Travis Boak as he reaches the 300 game milestone. Appeared on the scrapheap a couple of years ago, he has shifted gears and is again one of the premier players in the competition. As has Jordan de Goey for the Pies as he spends more time through the middle, needs a couple more on board. Boak gets some quality teammates back with Rozee, Butters and Duursma while the Pies lose a couple of handy ones and will debut two more in Ginnivan and Tohan. Really a sign of the trajectory of both clubs, the Pies are lower rated so Port will take this one out.
Mr Ed ($1.59) vs A Noble Cause ($2.66)
While Charlie has struggled the other Curnow has been such a resilient warrior for the Blues and gets to 200 games. The McKay brothers were to face off with the lads likely to go head-to-head, alas Harry is out. The Blues pulled out a great win after a poor start last week with Sam Walsh leading the way. Tarryn Thomas might not be getting the numbers but is not too far short of Walsh for his Roos, his creativity and vision have the team looking much better. They also get a pair of midfielders in Cunnington and Anderson which will certainly challenge the Blues. They Roos may also have an advantage in the ruck with Goldy but just think the Blues can stretch out to win this one.
Berry Good ($1.22) vs Touk his Time ($5.30)
The Lions will be assisted with the return of Jarrod Berry to the midfield, might be handy to help look after the influence of Touk Miller. Touk has been outstanding for the Suns and his teammates are starting to jump on for the ride. From a personnel perspective the Suns are well placed to take the Queensland title. The Lions need to hit back after succumbing to the Tigers and really need Joe to be much stronger in the contest. Reckon Chris Fagan will have the attitudes appropriately adjusted for the Lions to get back on the winners list.
Deesperation Time? ($1.97) vs Boogie Woogie Ugle Boy ($2.02)
Are the Dees out of form or is it just late season tapering? A few players are off their game and need to get back, the Hawks put time into Christian Salem who was not nearly as effective while they also ensure May and Lever were engaged. How will the Dogs approach this, they usually play the extra in the middle which could leave Lever or May free to intercept. The loophole Ugle-Hagan might have to work off both of them, he has a bigger test but certainly looked the part last week. The Dees tore them apart last time and have been superb against other well credentialled opposition once they can enforce their style. Harmes back will assist in shutting one of the Dogs down, just have to work out which one. The Dees are winning these critical games.
Guv ($1.48) vs Iso ($3.00)
The Eagles celebrate 150 games for Jeremy McGovern, not the finest looking athlete but just knows where the ball is going. They take on the Saints and have their hopes doubled with half of the Saints key ruck combination isolated in Melbourne. With Rowan Marshall out Paddy Ryder has to carry the load himself. They are 5-2 when they play together and 3-7 when they don’t in 2021. Nuff said Guv, Eagles win.
Charddy Sippers ($2.36) vs Deestroyers ($1.71)
The Hawks may not have destroyed Melbourne but have they provided the blueprint as to how. A masterclass from Clarkson that will have plenty of clubs wondering. They get to host Adelaide in the Loungeroom for an Adelaide home game. Plenty to prove for both sides but not a lot to gain, the Hawks look to have better depth and experience.
The Away Team ($1.71) vs Mum’s the Word ($2.38)
Essendon in the pineapple state are getting the rough end as they have another home game out of state. Did what they needed to over the Roos but will need to be better against the Giants. They have the skipper back in Coniglio who is more important with Toby left in isolation, the big in is Mumford. A great ruck contest between he and Draper who looks to play very much in the same style. It’s do or die for the Giants who can’t afford to fall 1½ games behind the Bombers so reckon they will be on this week.
G-wizz ($1.43) vs Done and Dustied ($3.20)
Geelong raised the usual ruckus around playing at home, in reality the opportunity to face the Tigers at the G should help them plan to go one better this year. (Assuming the Grand Final does get there) They are assisted greatly by loss of Dustin Martin, the ultimate differentiator in the big one. How the Tigers respond to the loss of the champ will be interesting, especially with the other injuries they are carrying. Their form from last week will challenge Geelong, they were too quick for Brisbane and enforced their game style. Nankervis made a huge difference and the challenges Geelong have in the ruck are well documented. Who delivers the spark if Richmond need one? Shai Bolton most likely. Do think the Cats forwards can stretch the Tiger defense and their best avenue to victory. Just think the speed of the Tigers can get them home.
Horseplay ($1.37) vs Mundy’s Expert ($3.60)
What would David Mundy’s profile be like at a Victorian club? Not much different I reckon. He would just get his job done week in week out with a minimum of fuss and maximum effectiveness. A great effort to reach 350 games. Sydney will look to spoil the occasion as they have often done this year. The top four remains in sight an if they get there a real chance for the title. Expecting a better performance from Freo but Sydney are just going too well.
No Ammos for another week,
Go Blues, Go Ed!
Cheers, Sal
The Tigers (Covid) Almanac 2020 will be published in 2021. It will have all the usual features – a game by game account of the Tigers season – and will also include some of the best Almanac writing from the Covid winter. Pre-order HERE
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