Border Mail |
WANGARATTA Rovers’ coach Mick Caruso says the Hawks expect Jason Akermanis to play in tomorrow’s stand-alone blockbuster at W.J. Findlay Oval.
The North Albury coach, who has played every game this season, was a shock omission at Thursday night selection.
Akermanis has been listed as “rested” this week and says he will coach the Hoppers from the sidelines this week.
But Caruso said his club would be surprised if that was the case.
“We’re expecting him to play,” Caruso said.
“I remember going back to round 1 he wasn’t going to play but I don’t think he’s missed a game yet.
“We’ve got specific match-ups in place and if he plays, all well and good, but if he doesn’t that’s well and good, too.”
Caruso said his club wouldn’t be insulted if Akermanis didn’t end up playing.
Meanwhile, the Hawks’ mentor said his side hadn’t got carried away by last Saturday’s strong showing against Albury.
The Hawks bounced back from a 66-point hiding by Lavington to push the Tigers to within two points.
“It was good to get back and play some good footy last week but the boys were still very disappointed we failed to get the points,” he said.
“While we were satisfied with our effort, we definitely weren’t happy with it.
“We still know we’ve got a way to go to where we want to be.”
Caruso said there was little doubt tomorrow’s clash was vital for both clubs.
“We’re obviously vying for a similar position in the top-five and early wins in the season are like gold,” he said.
“Both teams are two and three and it’s a big game for both of us.”
Rovers are preparing for Hoppers’ star Dan Leslie — who kicked six goals in a return to the forward half last week — to play at both ends of the ground tomorrow.
