The key players for Suns and Albanvale in WRFL Division 3 grand final

Albanvale and the Suns will both have plenty of talented players when they take to the field in Saturday’s WRFL grand final. Here’s who will be key.

There will be two different storylines heading into Saturday’s WRFL Division 3 grand final.

The Suns, the favourite, return to the big stage aiming for redemption after last year’s shock defeat to Braybrook on the final day of the season.

Then there’s Albanvale, a refreshed looking Cobras have been at the pointy end of the ladder again in 2023 under new coach Nick Smith, and are looking to close the season out with some silverware.

Both sides are filled with players who are among the best in the competition.

Here are those who will shape the game.

Ostinn Bellingham, Albanvale

Provides speed through the middle of the ground for the Cobras. Importantly, he’s shown he’s capable of going forward and hitting the scoreboard.

Darren Borg, Albanvale

Will play just about any role across the field for his side. An unsung hero of the Cobras given his ability to lock down an opponent.

Reece Duffield of Albanvale and Michael Ryan of Suns will do battle. (Photo by Josh Chadwick)

Reece Duffield, Albanvale

The best ruckman in the competition. Duffield is a presence in all areas of the ground given his aerobic capacity. Won’t be pushed around by his opponent either.

Reece Field, Albanvale

A small forward with blistering speed. Field is his side’s leading goalkicker this season with 70 majors. Kicked three goals in the second semi and five in the preliminary final.

Reece Field. (Photo by Josh Chadwick)

Daniel Hovey. Picture: Andy Brownbill

Daniel Hovey, Suns

What a brilliant season it has been back in Suns colours, finishing as the competition’s leading goal kicker with 112 to this point. Kicked seven goals in the second semi which means he is going to take some stopping.

Patrick Hynes, Suns

A gun midfielder who joined the club from Glen Orden in the off-season. After missing the first half of the season through suspension, Hynes has established himself as a key figure in the Suns’ engine room.

Chris Lear, Suns

His drive out of defence will be one of the key factors to his game while also stopping the Cobras’ smalls. Isn’t afraid to come off his man and help his fellow defenders in the air.

Michael Ryan, Suns

Returned for the second half of the season and what a difference he has made in the ruck. His battle against Duffield is going to be an intriguing one.

Brenden Wilson of the Suns. (Photo by Josh Chadwick)

Jackson Smith, Albanvale

A tall wingman who can play anywhere across the ground. Possessing a booming left foot, Smith is a difficult match up and can break the game open with his skills.

Brenden Wilson, Suns

The midfielder was a key recruit for the flag favourite in the off-season who has slotted in seamlessly. Formerly of Werribee Centrals, Wilson has been named in the best on 10 occasions.