Burra, Swans set for battle of the birds

Ballarat v Sebastopol

WHAT an important clash this one for two sides inside the McDonalds Ballarat Football League’s top six with the Swans hosting Sebas this Saturday afternoon at Alfredton Oval.

All eyes will be on the selection table with the availability of Josh Gibson always a talking point when mentioning Swans’ games. Whereas the Burra will be looking to recall a host of players who missed in last week’s loss to Bacchus Marsh, including captain Tony Lockyer who was a late withdrawal.

Question marks are being raised if Sebastopol is the real deal or not this season with their inconsistent form a worrying sign, but expect a passionate response in this one.

Prediction: Sebastopol in a tight tussle.

Lake Wendouree v Melton

The Lakers look to claim a scalp as they host of the premiership contenders in the Melton Bloods in a matchup set to have huge ramifications on the competition’s top six.

Wendouree comfortably took care of Darley last weekend and sitting level on points with Sebastopol, East Point and Redan a win or loss here is crucial towards a remarkable finals berth.

The Bloods got back on the winners list in a tight tussle over the ever-improving Swans with Ben Archard named best on ground in the victory. His prowess in the ruck and the dangerous combinations of the Carter brothers inside forward 50 might be enough for them to scrap across the line here.

Prediction: Melton by 24 points.

Redan v Darley

Should be an interesting clash to see a couple of rebuilding sides going to battle with the Devils third consecutive game on the road a real talking point here.

Darley remain winless this season and their record away from Darley Park looks even worse with an average losing margin of over 50 points.

Redan won a bruising encounter with Sunbury last weekend and their big body midfield of Lachie George, Daniel Bond and Craig Cooper-Peters should have a field day in this encounter.

Prediction: Redan comfortably.

Sunbury v Bacchus Marsh

Match of the Round as this one shapes as a do or die clash.

Sunbury will be desperate to get back David Kovacevic to go head-to-head against the Marsh’s, Daniel Burton, who would have to be the new favourite for this year’s Henderson Medal after his best on ground performance last weekend over Sebastopol.

The Cobras are also set to welcome back the Owen Brothers and Aaron Willitts to bolster their attacking options with a victory here cementing a finals berth and ending their opponents September dreams.

Prediction: Bacchus Marsh by 18 points.

Melton South v East Point

Fresh off the bye the reigning premiers make a trip down the highway and will be looking to bolster their already impressive percentage in this one.

In such a tight competition every point counts and with their full attacking arsenal now at full availability, expect East Point to run riot over Melton South.

Prediction: East Point in a landslide.