Firstly many of you will be aware that there was no write up for the games last weekend. I'll apologise, and the answer is yes, it's because Wanneroo lost.
Whilst Wanneroo may have lost the game, they also lost someone very near and dear to the players, members and all associated with the Wanneroo Amateur Football Club Community.
Current club trainer and Life Member Wayne Knowles "Knowlsey" passed away.
Many may have noticed him on the boundary line for many seasons as the old trainer Wanneroo had, but his contributions extended beyond that, he meant much more to everyone who ever met him and he will definitely be missed.
Sometimes you realise a few things in life are much bigger than football.
We move on to this weekends games and the battle for the Top 5 definitely heats up. Plenty of sides in action this weekend where they desperately need a win to ensure they can maintain touch. If all "favourites" for the games win on the weekend, the gap will grow and be harder for each side outside the Top 5 to claw back.
In election news we are 9 days away from the big decision. Malcolm is battling the flu and nearly derailed his election campaign with his inability to deliver on the mic while Bill made another return to Perth yet had somehow managed to miss an opportunity to mingle with high profile folk like MrM.
Has anybody seen the Liberal #FakeTradie ad? It turns out the gents a real tradie, go figure. Definitely a head scratcher, still doesn't excuse the ad is terrible regardless if a fake or real tradie...
Time to dissect and preview this weekends football action now.
Collegians v North Fremantle @Dalkeith Oval MOTR
Last time they met
North Fremantle 19.10 (124) defeated Collegians 12.9 (81)
This game looms as a season defining game for both clubs as both need a win. It's the battle of the Western Corridor Elitists, and it's this weeks Match Of The Round.
Collegians are flying at the moment and stole a win against Wanneroo last weekend. (When I say stole, I mean it, daylight robbery) they are in a good spot as any to earn the right for a double chance come finals time and a win here would definitely give them a good standing to do just that. North Freo have been sliding in recent weeks and will no doubt be searching for answers as to how they started the season so well, but have since dropped off the pace. As previously stated, a massive game for both clubs and it will be interesting to see if Collegians can continue that form that has made them possible contender. Given its a home game at "The Shank", I'll say they can.
Collegians by 3 goals
Mt Lawley v Wanneroo @Hamer Park 1
Last time they met
Wanneroo 6.9 (45) defeated by Mt Lawley 16.8 (104)
Mt Lawley had a commanding win last weekend and will look at last time they played Wanneroo and think, they will be in prime position to do that just again. With the "Brothers of Destruction" leading the goal kicking ladder, it will take a big effort for Wanneroo to stop them. Wanneroo were disappointed with last weekends loss, but a new week means a new chance to make amends for last. The clear key to win this game is limit the ball supply to the big forwards. Given its past players day for Mt Lawley I am sure a big crowd will be witness to a good game. I think Wanneroo can win here and keep there finals hopes alive.
Wanneroo by 2 goals
Kingsway v Melville @Kingsway Reserve
Last time they met
Melville 11.12 (78) defeated by Kingsway 11.14 (80)
Kingsway currently occupy 5th spot on the ladder and and slip up from here on in could cost them and all the early season work they did to ensure they put themselves in a good position come round 18. A win here is needed and a big win is also needed, Kingsway don't have a great percentage, so if given the chance they should be looking to put the foot down when winning. Melville are languishing at the bottom of the ladder at the moment, and it will be a tough task to try and climb off the bottom of that. They need to try and avoid heavy defeats also as the percentage effectively puts them 2 games behind Swan Ath. Kingsway should get it done here.
Kingsway by 5 goals
Wembley v Swan Athletic @Pat Goodridge Reserve
Last time they met
Swan Athletic 15.6 (96) defeated Wembley 9.14 (68)
You read that right folks, last time these two teams played, the struggling Swan Ath defeated Wembley. Wembley are flying at the moment and will be looking to keep thst up as they currently occupy top spot on the ladder and it's there's too lose. They'd want to make sure they don't slip up again against Swan Ath, who are desperate for a win also. Swan Ath, gave themselves a little breathing room last weekend with a win over Quinns but can't afford to rest up as they surely will have plenty to contend with this weekend. Especially the Swan Ath midfield and backline which will be under siege with a very strong Wembley side. I can't see Wembley this one.
Wembley by 5 goals
Quinns District v Whitford @Ridgewood Park
Last time they met
Whitford 18.8 (116) defeated Quinns District 7.10 (52)
Quinns have found the going tough in B Grade so far and have the longest losing streak currently in B Grade, which stretches back to as far as 9 weeks ago. They will be up against it here though as Whitford are going along smoothly. Whitford are definitely going along nicely and should be pretty happy with their efforts so far this season. If they can maintain this form, they are definitely finals bound and definitely a chance to finish in the top 2. Whitford should win here and do it convincingly.
Whitford by 6 goals
Good luck to all teams this weekend, let's get the B Grade chat up and running once more..