Ladies and Gentlemen we are finally here. After the season commenced on April 9th we have finally reached an end. Much debate ensued as the season continued to develop, but right from the very outset you could tell these two sides in Wembley & Whitford were the teams to beat (even if though MrM tipped an all magpie affair Wembley v North Fremantle...)
It's been good fun for majority of the season as we have had little to talk about, till Round 18 as Whitford unleashed a bombshell that Wembley had done the dodgy on a team sheet, in B Reserves mind you, but nevertheless a bombshell indeed. It made for good conversation, if only we got that kind of involvement every week.
In off field news MrM was truly outstanding this season, I am still no closer to finding a MrsM however it hasn't been through lack of trying as MrM has been likened to Jarryd Hayne chasing a new dream each week.
MrM does come with some bad news though as this is it for MrM in terms of write-ups for the foreseeable future. MrM has accepted an invitation to complete his MBA overseas and it's an offer that cannot be turned down, so as MrM embarks on his journey late December, please keep him in mind but it's also with great joy that MrM in his final write up can bring joy for all as big news developed yesterday
After campaigning from MrM and his close pal Tony Galati the West Australian Government have abolished the Potato Marketing Board meaning more potatoes for all. So even though MrM may not be around next season, keep those hot chips in order as he will still have eyes and ears letting him know what's happening.
For the final time this season and for what could possibly be the last time ever...lets get stuck into this weeks football.
Drew Banfield COLTS
Collegians v Whitford @Bassendean Oval
Previous meetings this season
Collegians 5.7 (37) defeated Whitford 5.4 (34)
Collegians 8.5 (53) defeated by Whitford 9.5 (59)
Collegians 4.6 (30) defeated Whitford 3.7(25)
With all games decided by less than a kick this game is definitely going to be a ripper and was very close to being rewarded with the FOTW tag, but falls just short. Collegians are a perennial powerhouse in the Colts competition and this season has been no different. They feel away midseason due to player numbers but have bounced back to find form at the right time and will go into this game knowing they can get it done. Whitford were on top of the ladder for majority of the second half of the season but fell off to finish third, but after some good finals performances they have lifted themselves into a Grand Final. It's definitely going to be a tight match especially at Bassendean Oval as the oval is quite heavy, but plenty of space to run. I think that the boys from the Golden Triangle can get a win here.
Collegians by 1 goal
B Reserves
Wembley v North Fremantle @Bassendean Oval
Previous meeting this season
Wembley 9.8 (62) defeated North Fremantle 8.6 (54)
Wembley 8.7 (55) defeated by North Fremantle 9.8 (62)
Both of these sides have had some very close encounters as well and it's definitely going to be another tough test for both sides here. Wembley were the best Reserves side all season and really only lost 1 game, even though the ladder says different. They play a very good style of football and it will take a very good effort from North Fremantle if they are to defeat them. North Freo have had a good back half of the session and have played some very good football in this finals series as they look to win a B Reserves flag. A silly statement, but it will come down to the wire and I can see Wembley being the team in front when it counts.
Wembley by 2 goals
B League
Wembley v Whitford @Bassendean Oval FOTW
Previous meetings this season
Wembley 8.9 (57) defeated by Whitford 8.13 (61)
Wembley 18.13 (121) defeated Whitford 12.5 (77)
Wembley 13.5 (84) defeated Whitford 8.10 (58)
Promotion to A Grade will mean little for these two clubs on Saturday as they are playing for something more important than that and it's definitely going to be a grudge match and that's why it's this weekends Final Of The Week.
Wembley have been the dominant side all season and it's a true credit to themselves for the hardwork they have put in especially as they move into a new facility. They play a very good style of football and given the vast expanses of the Bassendean Oval I can see it going very well on Saturday. If T.Noakes slots back into the Wembley forward line then they will be tough to beat if they can get the supply down there, as in the Second Semi Final they were outstanding. Whitford, well they too play a good style of football, and definitely will be hoping that they can match it with Wembley on Saturday. Whitford have a tough few choices to make in regards to selection, with some coming back from injury but it should bolster their side. MrM big concern is can Whitford match it with Wembley endurance wise and with the way Wembley move the football, I think it will see them struggle. Wembley will be to good here and it will be back to Wembley they goooooooooo.
Wembley by 2 goals
That's it everyone, it's been good fun. Thanks to all who contribute, thanks to those who don't (because some have interesting views that don't need to be shared). MrM looks forward to the next chapter of his storied career.
