Derby more than ‘bragging rights’

By Todd Whelan

It’s on again!
Darley will be hoping to maintain its recent advantage over cross town rivals Bacchus Marsh when the two teams meet this Saturday.
The Devils have won their last five meetings against the Cobras and will enter the local derby as warm favourites to win at home. Darley Park has become an overwhelming assignment for any visiting team let alone the Cobras with the Devils unbeaten run at home extending to nine after their Round 1 disposal of Sunbury.
While bragging rights await the winner, the result will paint a much broader picture…

A WIN:
DARLEY
– will be 2-0 without Brian Graham (suspended) and Heath Scotland (inj), a huge confidence builder for the club to kick start their centenary year.
– will extend their winning streak over the Cobras to six.
BACCHUS MARSH
– will be a major boost for the group under new coach Peter Davey. Belief will be through the roof.
– will square the ledger 1-1 in 2019 and take some pressure off a Round 3 meeting with Melton.

A LOSS:
DARLEY
– will be back with the pack at 1-1 and will have missed out on an all important home win in what looks a tough year.
– the aura and intimidation that comes with their unbeaten run at home will be over.
BACCHUS MARSH
– will be 0-2 and under the pump again next week (Melton)
– Will pose the question – are they capable of executing the new game plan?
– Darley’s recent dominance will continue to frustrate supporters.

The word on the street.

1. Darley coach Heath Scotland (shoulder) won’t play – despite the club’s reluctance to confirm or deny. Brian Graham will miss (suspended).
2. Devils will persevere with youth.
Is five too many? Not yet, as long as they keep performing.
3. Darley have more versatility than last year.
Good early signs, players adapting to multiple roles
4. Nick Graham’s influence will build from week to week.
There is no ceiling on the damage the ex-Blue will do when he has a day out.
5. Darley Park home advantage is significant.
The Devils have won their last nine at home and 16/19 under Scotland.
6. The Cobras will have made seven changes from their last meeting with Darley – 2018 Elimination Final.
7. Cobras recruit Jake DeWinter will spend more time in the midfield. The dangerous forward looks set for minutes in the middle. The X-factor.
8. The Cobras have found a beauty in Tom Brownbridge across half back. By all reports reads the play well and is the organiser down back.
9. Ruckman Daniel Burton is the key for Cobras. The reigning Henderson medallist dominated the Devils last year despite the Cobras losing all three meetings.
10. Cobras new game plan is a work in progress. Expect Bacchus Marsh to be a better side in the second half of the season as they make the adjustment.