Football
20 June, 2024
Saints look forward to Tigers test
After securing a thrilling win against Dimboola last week, the Horsham Saints travel to Nhill to take on another tough test in round nine of the Wimmera Football Netball League.
The Saints are currently sixth on the ladder, with three wins, the same as Minyip Murtoa. The Tigers are a game behind in seventh, so it's a must-win for both teams.
The Saints were close to getting Judd Wright back last week, but he reinjured his ankle while training, and they lost Jordy Keyte on the weekend to a knee injury.
Saints' coach Ben Knott knows it won't be an easy task.
"Historically, we have gone to Nhill, and it has always been a struggle there, so I expect another close game," Knott said.
"They have some players we will need to work on, such as Jake McQueen, so we have watched the footage and worked out a plan to combat some of their dangerous players.
"There is a lot we can still improve on, such as our defensive side, but it's pleasing to learn while you're winning, instead of losing."
At Horsham City Oval, Horsham will look forward to testing itself against the premiership favourite, Southern Mallee Thunder.
They have an entire squad to choose from and coach Jordy Burke is looking forward to seeing where they are really at.
"Now we get to test ourselves, and we are looking forward to it. I am happy with the improvements we have shown," Burke said.
"We have to play direct footy and don't let them get a chance to set up, and that was an extra focus this week during training.
"It's good to see where we sit, and after the match, regardless of what happens, we can assess our goals, and sitting in the top five is a good thing."
In the other match, Minyip Murtoa and Dimboola face off at Dimboola Recreation Reserve. This is an important match in the context of Dimboola's season.
The Roos currently sit eighth, one win behind the Burras in the top five, so a loss means they could be two games out of the five, depending on what happens in the Saints game.
On the other end of the spectrum, a win for the Burras can give them some space in the top five, but it will be tough with the Burras still missing a few key players through injury.
The Warrack Eagles have the bye alongside Ararat and Stawell who played each other in this fixture on Good Friday.