Sorrento sets the pace but Frankston YCW is ready to surge in MPNFL Division 1 title race
THE MPNFL Division 1 premiership race is wide open at the halfway mark of the season. But crucial questions remain unanswered...
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THE MPNFL Division 1 premiership race is wide open at the halfway mark of the season.
Luke Tapscott’s Sorrento is setting the pace, with Mt Eliza in hot pursuit.
Edi-Asp, Pines and Frankston Bombers look capable of challenging for the title — but the big question is, can powerhouse club Frankston YCW recover from a form slump and win a fifth successive flag?
RELATED: Sorrento turns tables on Frankston YCW while Mt Eliza holds off Frankston Bombers
SORRENTO (1st, 8-2)
After a dominant period in the old Nepean league, the Sharks have stepped seamlessly into the top division. Former AFL players Chris Dawes, Mitch Hallahan and Luke Tapscott headline a strong side also boasting prolific goal kicker Leigh Poholke, power forward Nick Corp and quality youngsters Shannon Gladman, James Brigden and Will Tucker. A strong flag fancy.
MT ELIZA (2nd, 7-3)
Young and exciting, the Redlegs have won six of their past seven to raise hopes they could win their first flag since 2005. Ex-Casey VFL players Jordan Moncrieff (28 goals) and Jimmy Freeman (20) provide good targets, while skipper Shane Tennant has been a tower of strength in defence.
FRANKSTON YCW (3rd, 6-4)
Hit hard by injuries, YC have dropped the past four games — their longest losing streak in over a decade. But champions find a way. We will be eagerly watching the Stonecats’ response.
EDITHVALE-ASPENDALE (4th, 6-3)
Graeme Yeats’ Eagles are a well-balanced, strong outfit, boasting arguably the best backline in the comp, led by Mark Mullins, Mick Meehan and ex-Tiger Brett O’Hanlon. Former Noble Park star Sam Monaghan has been a good inclusion. A serious premiership threat.
PINES (5th, 5-4)
The Pythons have looked good in the past three weeks, with Aaron Edwards firing off 19 goals in the past two games. If they take their chances in the run home, they can play finals.
FRANKSTON BOMBERS (6th, 5-5)
Three of the Bombers’ losses have been by two, three and four points. That hurts, and could ultimately prove telling in the race for a top-five spot. Ex-AFL forward Jarrad Grant has been good, kicking 21 goals, while Corey Buchan, Ben Northover, Dale Sutton and Sam Fox are having fine seasons.
BONBEACH (7th, 4-5)
Injuries have taken a toll on last season’s grand finalists who were thrashed to the tune of 103 points last week. The Sharks will need to cause some upsets if they’re to see more finals action.
ROSEBUD (8th, 2-6-1)
The Buds have had their moments, upsetting Frankston YCW, getting within a kick of Edi-Asp and drawing with Seaford. A few more wins will make their return season in the top division a satisfying one.
MORNINGTON (9th, 2-7)
There was an air of excitement with club great Simon Goosey returning to coach, but the Bulldogs have been cruelled by injuries and their goal now is to avoid relegation.
SEAFORD (10th, 1-7-1)
The Tigers started the season with a rousing win over Pines but have struggled since.
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