EDFL: Aberfeldie and Strathmore meet in Premier Division grand final
Aberfeldie and Strathmore have stars across the park who could win them a premiership but there’s heartbreak looming at the selection table for both sides.
Essendon
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Recent grand final history couldn’t be any different ahead of the EDFL Premier Division decider.
Aberfeldie is preparing for its eighth straight decider, winning three along the way, while Strathmore is playing in its first decider since the 2014 premiership.
Abers currently holds the record in the head-to-head this season, two to one.
Although the pair have faced off twice in the past month.
Strathmore took the four points in the final game of the home-and-away season while Aberfeldie produced a powerful display in the second semi-final to earn a week off.
While in the Queen’s Birthday weekend clash, it was Aberfeldie who snuck across the line.
A thrilling encounter awaits at Windy Hill on Saturday afternoon.
KEY PLAYERS TO WATCH
Adam Iacobucci, Strathmore
One of the experienced heads of the Mores’ line-up, Iacobucci remains one of the most dominant players in the competition. Has been named in Strathmore’s best on 13 occasions this season.
Will Jury, Strathmore
Was labelled as the “best player in the competition” by his coach Matt Horne after the preliminary final victory and you’d expect him to have a big say on the outcome of this game. Has consistently kicked goals out of the midfield which is a matchwinning trait.
Nick Meese, Aberfeldie
There’s no doubt the big man will once again be in league medal contention after another brilliant season. His teammates love being at his feet with his usual dominance in the air but faces a huge challenge against Vavra.
Sam Paea, Aberfeldie
Has spent time away from local level this season due to VFL commitments but when he has been available he’s been brilliant. Strathmore have done a good job against him in recent matches holding Paea to three goals.
Lucas Rocci, Aberfeldie
Rocci has been a consistent goalkicker when he’s been in the Aberfeldie line-up this season and has proven he can win a game off his own boot. When he’s not kicking goals himself he’s creating opportunities for others.
Andrew Vavra, Strathmore
Faces an exciting battle with Meese in the ruck which will prove pivotal. Vavra has been brilliant throughout the season with his presence around the ground one of his strongest traits.
THE X-FACTORS
Daniel Thompson, Aberfeldie
A general in defence for Abers and his role will only become more important in the absence of skipper Luke Davis. Likes the big games and should be a joy to watch.
Athan Tsialtas, Strathmore
After missing the first half of the season, the star forward has been a consistent goalkicker since returning to the Mores’ line-up. Booted three in the preliminary final so will head into the decider full of confidence.
WHAT THE COACHES SAID
Aberfeldie, Adam Marcon: “It’s been a really enjoyable couple of weeks, there’s been a great buzz around the club especially at training on Tuesday night. All the key stats — clearances, contested ball and inside 50s — will determine who wins this game. We need to be making sure there is pressure on the ball carrier all day. Restricting Strathmore’s ball movement is going to be key for us.”
Strathmore, Matt Horne: “We’ve got three sides (seniors, reserves and under 18s) in grand finals so it’s extremely exciting for our club. I feel like it has been building since Nathan Grima was in charge then I took over. In the three previous games this year, the team that has controlled the contest has controlled the game. They’re a powerful side through the middle and in their forward half so we’ve focused on a couple of areas where we think we can improve from last time.”
HOW WILL THE TEAMS LINE-UP?
Aberfeldie
There could be heartbreak for several players with changes possibly on the way. Captain Luke Davis has already been ruled out due to facial fractures, he suffered the injury in the last game of the home-and-away season. Ben Smokrovic, Jayden Foster and Kyle Reimers all missed the second semi-final and are believed to be ready to go after recovering from various illnesses and injuries. Sam Cattapan will captain the side in Davis’ absence. A tough time ahead at the selection table.
Strathmore
Changes could also be on the way at Strathmore as tough decisions loom for Matt Horne and his coaching staff. Floyd Bollinghaus hasn’t taken part in a finals series yet while Lachie Johnson missed last weekend’s preliminary final. Ben Reddick and Callum Clinnick are two other names who could come into contention.
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