VALUABLE INCLUSION: Experienced goalsneak Daniel McLaughlin will return from a one-game ban to line up against the Tigers tomorrow. PHOTO: Les Garbutt
Rovers take confidence into battle with Tigers
Written by SCOTT ANDERSON.
WANGARATTA Rovers will head into tomorrow’s clash against ladder leader Albury with a degree of confidence, despite the fact they will head across the border with three of their stars still on the sidelines.
Coach Matt Allen said last weekend’s bye had been refreshing for the Hawks, but conceded Jack Hill (ankle), Tas Clingan (hamstring) and Caolan Buckley (shoulder) would not make the trip to Albury.
Nonetheless, Allen said the addition of Daniel McLaughlin, who sat out of the Hawks’ clash against Wangaratta last round through suspension, would be a welcome return.
"It was good to have the week off, but I don’t think we’re going to get any extra players back," he said.
"Tas and Caolan will both be out for another week, so that’s disappointing.
"But Daniel will be back, and his inclusion will be very greatly appreciated.
"Overall everyone is in pretty good shape at the moment, but the ones who are out are very good players."
The Tigers have made the Albury Sportsground a fortress over the past two years, having won their past 16 matches at the venue, and only one of the seven victories they have recorded there this year has been by less than 12 goals.
When the Hawks hosted Albury in round six, it was a fairly tight battle for two quarters, with the Tigers leading by 25 points at halftime.
But the reigning premiers stormed home with 11 goals to one after the break to win by 92 points in the end.
Still, Allen said there were signs the empire may be on the wane, with the Tigers tested by both Lavington and North Albury in the past two rounds.
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