KOONDROOK Barham simply can’t let this chance slip. Tomorrow’s Central Murray Football Netball League match of the round presents the Raiders with a golden opportunity to grab a win against a fellow finals opponent.
The Raiders’ only fitness concern at the moment is Shane Guerra, with the veteran a potential return from an elbow injury this week. Neil Bradley has had some juggling to do in recent weeks due to injury, but if Guerra is fit he will have a full squad to choose from as the Raiders host a side struggling with injuries.
Tooleybuc Manangatang took a depleted side into last week’s game against Tyntynder, with injuries to Joel Cullen, Josh Stone and Kayne McAlpine adding to an already-lengthy injury list.
A calf problem will likely keep Cullen sidelined for a few weeks, with McAlpine facing a similar prognosis following a groin injury. Stone will have a scan to assess the full extent of a knee injury.
Ruckman Ryan O’Sullivan will miss at least another month with a broken hand, while general soreness is likely to see Corey Kelly on the sidelines again.
Bradley said the Raiders’ come-from-behind win against Tyntynder had given the playing group a boost.
“It was fantastic to come from five goals behind and get up,” he said.
He said this week’s game took on added significance after the pleasing win.
“It’s just super important that we take another step back up the ladder,” he said.
“We can’t afford to lose this one.”
Tooleybuc Manangatang coach Brad Morris acknowledged the extent of the challenge for the Saints.
“They rolled us last time. They move the ball similarly to Tyntynder… We’ve got to be ready to counteract their attack and push forward defensively,” he said.
“It’s going to be a tough game with a few injuries, so we’ll see how we go.”
The Saints gelled and hit a purple patch of form that was highlighted when they inflicted Kerang’s first defeat at home in four seasons.
With seven wins from 10 appearances, Brad Morris’ side has set up a tilt at the finals — potentially with a double chance. The injury curse has arguably come at a time when it could be more readily managed with some winnable games coming up.
Tomorrow’s game shapes as a tough one, though. The Raiders have managed their own injury woes and hit some good form, after dropping a tight game against Kerang.
Last week’s bye would have helped, with a good win the only acceptable outcome for the Raiders tomorrow.
