Swans seek redemption over Redan

Ballarat v Redan

WITH only two home and away games left for each side in the McDonalds Ballarat Football League, this one shapes as almost an unofficial elimination final at Alfredton Oval.

Swans had their first bye of the season and with another one scheduled in the final round, this matchup against traditional rivals is shaping be a must win.

Last time these two sides met Dean Chester booted five goals in the Lions thumping win. You would not be shocked to see the veteran recalled to allow Lachlan George an opportunity to move back into the midfield.

Redan may have been victorious quite comfortably last time, but the Swannies were without Jake Dunne and 2019 Tony Lockett Medallist Andrew Hooper.

The duo has kicked 28 goals in their nine games combined this season, and their prowess between the sticks, plus the ball collecting abilities of captain Sam James may be the reason they sneak home and inflict a bit of redemption from earlier in 2021.

Prediction:  Ballarat by 12 points.

North Ballarat v Sunbury

Sunbury’s recent run of form has been tremendous, with four wins out of their last five games.

That effort has seen them move back inside the competition’s top six for the first time since round one after their comprehensive win over Lake Wendouree last weekend.

This week they make the trip up the highway to take on the flag favourites North Ballarat in a game where it’s a true battle of North’s attack verses the Lions impeccable defence.

Mars Stadium and Clarke Oval share many similarities with the vast expanses accustomed to both side’s running power and game style.

However, the fact North Ballarat are undefeated on their home deck so far this year, and the way they are able to find multiple avenues to goal might just be enough to give them the edge.

Prediction: North Ballarat secures the minor premiership.

Sebastopol v Melton

Match of the round with Sebas hosting the Melton Bloods at the Marty Busch Reserve in a contest that is expected to be as close as they come.

The last time these two sides went to battle it was a one-point thriller with the Bloods exacting some revenge for Sebastopol bundling them out in the 2019 preliminary final.

Both sides have had a host of injuries so far this year, with the Burra expected to recall James Richards, Chase Dummett and 2016 Team of the Year recipient Jack McNab – who’s been out with a hamstring injury.

The Bloods had a tough hit out against Bacchus Marsh last weekend with their top end talent of Jack Walker, Braedan Kight and the Carter brothers were the difference in them walking out with the four points.

This and the X-factor of Kevin Klix inside forward 50 might be difference again in the Bloods walking away with a tight earned victory.

Prediction: Melton in a flip of the coin.