I'm sure it doesn't need to be said but this week is again a big week in WAAFL B Grade action. A chance for many to stamp their authority and continue to build towards finals, a chance for a few to move a game clear from those chasing them and by the end of this weekend, and the battle for relegation could come down to the outcome of games this weekend.
If you haven't heard the news by now then you must have your head in the sand and MrM has no time for naivety from anybody. Tony Galati or Tony G as his friends call him, has said he will shave off his famous eyebrows if he can raise $500,000 for Telethon this year. Tony without his eyebrows would be a sight to see, so I think we should all start donating to the cause because the money will be put to good use. MrM is all for good causes, except I may have missed the boat by not changing my Facebook Profile picture to one with a rainbow filter this week.
Many important games to discuss so let's get into it.
Hamersley Carine V Wanneroo @Carine Open Space
Last time they met
Wanneroo 8.14 (62) defeated by Hamersley Carine 9.11 (65)
A game close to being Match Of The Round. Last time these two played Hamersley came from 5 goals down as Wanneroo snatched defeat from the jaws of victory. Hamersley should be livid they let a game slip last weekend and will no doubt be out to ensure they don't lose two in a row, they will be without Justin Joyce who was awarded captain of the WAAFL U/23's side. Wanneroo gained back some confidence last weekend as they managed to get it done against Whitford. A few outs due to state duty for both sides. It will be an interesting game across the road from the scene of one of MrM's finest moments. Wanneroo to avenge their previous loss to Hamersley here.
Wanneroo by 2 goals
Swan Athletic v Collegians @Fawell Park
Last time they met
Collegians 10.11 (71) defeated by Swan Athletic 14.5 (89)
This weekend presents another chance for Swan Ath to fine tune their game plan before they face the top sides of the ladder in the coming weeks. No side wants to lose, so Swan Ath will need to be on their game here as Collegians have shown they can match it with the top. After defeating contender Hamersley last week, Collegians will be out to make it two in a row and knock off another contender in Swan Ath. Should be another close contest. I think Collegians can cause an upset here, but I'm going tip Swan Ath given its a home game,
Swan Ath by 2 goals
Scarborough v Maddington @Millington Reserve
Last time they met
Maddington 9.9 (63) defeated by Scarborough 19.7 (121)
Scarborough are another side out to get the win this week and get their game plan tuned ready for a big few weeks ahead. They sit atop the ladder and have another chance to improve their strong percentage. Maddington are desperate for a win and a loss this weekend could mean they fall 2 games behind 9th. Unfortunately for them, I given them a 0.1% chance of winning, slim odds, but always a chance in a two horse race. Scarborough to win by the length of Millington though and it's a big length.
Scarborough by 8 goals
Wembley v Whitford @Pat Goodridge Reserve
Last time they met
Whitford 13.12 (90) defeated Wembley 5.8 (38)
Wembley are again on the late season charge and will need that train to keep on rolling if they want to ensure they play finals. A full strength they should be confident of beating anybody. Whitford are still a chance of playing finals so they can't be counted out. That being said though I'd be very surprised if this result is the same as last time, it could be as much as a 120 point turnaround. Wembley will be too good here.
Wembley by 5 goals
Stirling v Kingsway @Richard Guefli Reserve MOTR
Last time they met
Kingsway 14.9 (93) defeated Stirling 13.11 (89)
If Stirling lose they will almost be destined for relegation. If Stirling wins, then the battle truly heats up. Which is why I have awarded this game Match Of The Round, not to mention the rivalry and Grand Final Rematch 2.0.
Stirling put up an improved performance last week but fell short against a strong Wembley outfit. If they can keep up that effort for the rest of the season then they could survive. Everything is on the line this weekend for Stirling. As it is for Kingsway, a win and they can consolidate themselves in B Grade ready for 2016. A loss and it will be panic stations from here on in. I can tell this game will be close and fiery and not just because these sides don't like each other, with everything on the line, they have nothing to lose. Stirling to win here and get that relegation battle on for the rest of the season.
Stirling by 1 goal
Good luck to all this weekend. Good luck to the WAAFL State U/23's today and tomorrow as they look to win the national championship on Saturday. 6 players will represent the B Grade fraternity and we wish them and the rest all the best.
