Football
17 May, 2024
Thunder faces tough challenge against Minyip Murtoa
The Southern Mallee Thunder travel to Minyip Recreation Reserve tomorrow to take on Minyip Murtoa in round five of the Wimmera Football Netball League.
![Nick Yarran returned in style in his first game last week kicking three goals. PHOTO: LES GRAETZ](https://wmnnews-4634.kxcdn.com/img/containers/assets/news/yarran.jpeg/238843adeba20c89420b4093845b55d8.jpeg)
Tim McIntyre is still out with a knee injury for the Burras but Nic Ballagh might return.
Oscar Gawith has been a challenging proposition in recent weeks, moving into the forward line after playing down back and kicking goals. He can stand up when the Burras need him to.
The Thunder should welcome back Sam White and Simon Clugston from the concussion they suffered in round one.
Thunder coach Kieran Delahunty says they are still finding their feet with each other, but are growing every week.
"The more footy we play, the better we get as a team and we are still trying to learn and find out more about how each other plays," Delahunty said.
"This will be a good test against the Burras as they have some good midfielders and we will have a plan with one or two of them.
"Oscar Gawith is also in good form so we will have to keep a close eye on him and where he plays."
Minyip Murtoa coach Gareth Hose is confident in their chances.
"We are expecting a tough battle and it is another good opportunity to see how we stack up against one of the top sides of the competition," Hose said.
"A few weeks against Stawell we let ourselves down so hopefully we can put a better fight up against the Thunder, learn from those losses and who knows what could happen."