The Standard | THE first half of the Warrnambool and District league season has taught competition followers three things.
Firstly, the three premiership favourites have already proven their credentials. Reigning premier Merrivale, Dennington and Allansford all have claims to the 2015 flag.
Secondly, four mid-table contenders have become obvious. Kolora-Noorat, Old Collegians, South Rovers and Nirranda are chasing berths in the elimination final.
And thirdly, five others — Panmure, East Warrnambool, Timboon Demons, Russells Creek and Deakin University — can start planning their rise up the ladder.
But for all the ladder offers up in clarity, it’s the jostling for positions which remains full of intrigue and will have fans guessing for weeks to come.
Who will take top spot? After the Tigers’ dismantling of the Cats last weekend, the minor premiership appears theirs to lose.
And who will snatch fourth and fifth? This remains the unknown and several permutations are possible. A glance at the fixture confirms 13 wins will be enough.
What a great outcome. Not since 2012 has there been such drama over the last two finals spots, but even that pales in comparison to 2015.
Kolora-Noorat (6-3) appears to be in the box seat. Its run home includes only two of the top three, as well as a home match against Old Collegians.
Under new coach Danny Finn, the Power is yet to hit its straps. Mark Clissold has missed chunks of football while a group of teenagers are starting to emerge.
Beat the Warriors (round 15) and the Blues (round 17), and a 13-5 record is possible. That would almost certainly lock away fourth spot.
Old Collegians (6-3) have the toughest draw of the contenders but could sneak into the five.
They must beat the Lions (round 11) and the Power (round 15) if they want to be safe. Lose one and percentage could become a factor.
South Rovers (6-3) also have a couple of non-negotiable encounters in the second half of their campaign, starting with the Warriors.
Coach Nathan Isles has also highlighted a round 18 fixture with the Blues as an early elimination final. Win both and they’re in.
Nirranda (5-4) is behind the eight-ball by comparison, due to having one fewer win to its name. But its easier draw keeps it in the mix.
The Blues’ final fortnight — the Power and the Lions — will be season-defining. Their healthy percentage means they can drop one, but even that’s a risk.
Key matches: Round 11: South Rovers v Old Collegians, Walter Oval; Round 15: Kolora-Noorat v Old Collegians, Noorat Recreation Reserve; Round 17: Nirranda v Kolora-Noorat, Nirranda Recreation Reserve; Round 18: Nirranda v South Rovers, Nirranda Recreation Reserve.
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
