EFL 2019: Balwyn and Vermont to meet in top-of-the-table clash
The top-of-the-table clash between Vermont and Balwyn could reveal if Rodney Eade’s side can trouble the standard-setter of the competition on the path to this year’s EFL Premier Division grand final.
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How big is the gap between Balwyn and Vermont in EFL Premier Division?
The Round 17 clash between the two sides could provide some answers as to whether the Eagles can be challenged on the path to this year’s grand final.
Balwyn sits second on the ladder and is guaranteed a top-three finish after dismantling an in-form Norwood on Saturday.
But the top-of-the-table clash this weekend could show if the Tigers can match it with the standard-setter of the competition.
Vermont scored a 45-point win when the two sides met in Round 8.
“They’ve got a pretty strong side and (they’re) nearly at full strength,” Balwyn coach Rodney Eade said.
“When we played them last time when we had our best forward, best mid and best defender out so we’ve got confidence we’ll be better than last time.
“The pleasing thing for me is we’re still improving, there is still room for improvement and they’re willing to listen.
“Some individuals have really gained some momentum and form.”
Balwyn was untroubled on its way to a 76-point win over the Norsemen at Cherry Rd on Saturday.
Norwood had won its previous five games but was handed a 14.19 (103) to 3.9 (27) defeat.
The Norsemen kicked just one goal in the second half.
Eade said his side’s relentless approach broke the game open.
“I think it was just a good four-quarter performance where we were relentless in what we did with our pressure and attack on the footy and our work-rate to support each other,” he said.
“All the things we talk about, all the things that we value were there in abundance.
“We made some errors and missed some goals ... but generally the willingness to stick to the task and stick to what we want to get out of what we want to do for each other was really pleasing.”
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Chandler Medal winner Cam Manuel returned from injury and kicked three goals to be in the best players.
Eade said the Tigers would need a repeat of their efforts against Norwood if they are to challenge Vermont.
“Vermont is the standout side in the comp, there is no doubt about that and everyone is chasing them,” he said.
“For us to be a chance to beat them, we need to bring that four-quarter effort.
“Even if we might not play well, it will be our effort and willingness to put pressure on them and stay in the contest and hunt for the ball. That’s what we’re looking at.”
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