Round 14 gets underway for the Mallee Football League this week with 3 tantalising matches.
Ouyen hosts Hopetoun this week, and after the Demons gallant loss to Beulah, they will be looking to record a big win against the undersized Devils. Relton Roberts was a standout in the Ouyen forward line last week, and Brad Vallance will be looking to fire again after being well held last week. If this forward line gets up and about, it could be a long day for their opposition.
Hopetoun had a difficult day out last week against Sea Lake, and will be looking to bounce back with a more competitive performance this week. The ever reliable Hayden Drew will need more support this week from both ends of the ground.
The second match of the round pits Walpeup-Underbool against Jeparit-Rainbow up at Underbool. Last time these two sides met, the Roo's were quick to gain the ascendancy and record their first win of the season. The Lakers will be looking to reverse the outcome this time around, and after putting in some good performances over the previous couple of rounds, could be a chance this week. Tyler Edelsten and Adam Schultz have been leaving nothing on the park for the Lakers each week for the
Lakers, and they are likely to feature in the best again this week.
The Roos will be fresh after the bye last week and will have plenty of players lining up to potentially get their third win. David Piasente is always a danger man for the Roos, and Kane Munro has shown solid form up forward all year. Another big week from this two could go a long way towards a win.
The final match of the round is between last year's premiers, Woomelang-Lascelles, and the second placed Sea Lake-Nandaly Tigers. Both teams have been impressive this year and enjoyed contributions from a wide range of players. Brodie Adcock was good last week for the Cats and will be hoping his run of form will continue deep into the finals. Corey Kelly is rarely beaten, and the Tigers will need to find a good matchup for him.
The Tigers are coming off a big win last week and will be full of confidence. Cliff Ryan had a day out, and if he can produce another game alike that, then the Cats are in trouble. Luke Martin was quiet for the Tigers last week, but this game should suit him more.
By Daniel Huttig
