Border Mail |
A RESURGENT Jindera has lured developing big man Sam Dewar to the kennel.
In a significant boost to the Bulldogs’ chances of retaining their spot inside the top six, Dewar arrives from North Albury after playing a handful of senior matches in his first season of senior football with the Hoppers last year.
Dewar, 20, hasn’t been able to break into the Hoppers senior team this season, prompting him to join teammate Alex Takle — who also started the season at Bunton Park — at the Bulldogs.
“I played a few senior games under Bob Craig last year but obviously it is a lot harder to get a game at North Albury this season,” Dewar said.
“I was pretty keen to keep playing seniors, so when Jindera showed some interest I jumped at the opportunity.
“I know Michael Bain, Taylor Schultz and Alex Takle who went out there this year so I already know a few of the boys.”
Dewar said North Albury coach Jason Akermanis had made a huge impression on him since arriving at Bunton Park.
“I loved Aker as a coach; his football knowledge is second to none and he is so approachable no matter who you are,” Dewar said.
After playing the opening month of the season in the Hoppers reserves, Dewar hasn’t played since Anzac Day after suffering a hand injury.
“I can’t wait to get out there on the weekend because it has been a bit frustrating sitting on the sidelines watching everyone else,” he said.
“Jindera has made a promising start to the season and from what I have seen should be able to pinch a win or two come finals.”
Jindera assistant coach Andrew Wilson said the developing ruckman would provide the Bulldogs with more flexibility.
“We were probably lacking that extra tall because when you come up against the flag contenders they have got plenty of height,” Wilson said.
“Sam will not only help shoulder the ruck load but will provide another tall marking target when resting forward.
“The biggest bonus for us is we can now swing Brett Garland forward alongside big Ash Murray and create plenty of headaches for the opposition.
“I think we will be a lot more dangerous side with Brett spending most of his time in attack.”
After missing finals last year, Jindera has started the season 6-2 and face finals wildcard Lockhart at Lockhart on Saturday.
The Bulldogs have enjoyed the past fortnight off with the interleague bye followed by the general bye.
They will also have a bye again next week after their round 10 clash against Howlong was transferred to Good Friday.
Wilson said the break had come at a perfect time for the Bulldogs.
“I suppose we won’t know if having three weeks off in a month is a good thing or a bad thing until we see how our results go,” he said.
“But after playing eight straight matches the boys were looking for a bit of a break and it has given us a chance to get a few players back on the track from injury.
“We had a tough week on the track last week training wise.
“If we can get the job done this week we get another week off before a season-defining month where we play all the flag contenders in a row.”
