Tigers coach names Saints favourites

TOOLEYBUC Manangatang and Woorinen will both be out to make amends for their failed finals campaigns last season when they do battle in tomorrow’s elimination final.

Tigers coach Marcus DeMaria had no issue naming the Saints as favourites and conceded “quite a few people will be tipping them” with the return of important players at the back end of the season.

Last year, the Saints were bundled out of the finals by eventual grand finalists Koondrook Barham, while Woorinen were sent packing in straight sets losses to Mallee Eagles and the Raiders.

Speaking ahead of the game, DeMaria was looking for a strong team effort against the Saints.

“This is a massive game for us, last year we got the double chance and this year it is do or die, so we need to approach this one as being desperate and doing whatever it takes to win,” he said.

“I think they are going to be dangerous and everyone is a little worried about them this year, they are getting players back at the right time and are capable of beating anyone.”

The Tigers will look for contributions across the board, including their bench players, to get the win.

The two sides produced a draw in their only clash for 2016.

Saints coach Brad Morris said his side would give themselves every chance to beat the Tigers.

“We have played good footy over the past few weeks and we have put in some really good efforts, we will go in and give ourselves every chance,” he said.

“Our strength over the last few weeks has been consistent efforts across the ground and we are looking to maintain that, getting a solid output from all of the boys.

“I wouldn’t say we are favourites, with the result of the last game it will be a great encounter and coming away with the draw it leaves the contest open ended.”

Tip: Tooleybuc Manangatang by 16