WRFL: Altona and Werribee Districts face off for Division 1 premiership
The key players from Altona and Werribee Districts will decide Saturday’s WRFL Division 1 grand final. Here’s who to look out for.
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It all comes down to this.
Altona against Werribee Districts.
The two clubs will do battle for the Western Region Football League Division 1 crown on Saturday afternoon at Avalon Airport Oval.
Altona is chasing its first premiership since 2012 while Districts are aiming for their first senior competition premiership after crossing from the VAFA in 2014.
The Corey McCall coached Vikings have been one of the benchmarks of the competition having qualified for the grand final with a narrow six-point win over Caroline Springs in the second semi-final.
“I’m really excited but the nerves are really starting to kick in,” McCall said.
“After the win against Caroline Springs it was more of a relief to have reached the last game of the season. Having the extra week to freshen up was important because it was a tough game against them. We did an extra session in the lead up and we’re primed to go.
“Werribee are the in form team right now. They’ve been really impressive with how they’ve gone about their three finals. They’ve got great confidence and have played some great footy.”
Chris Gilham and Districts have faced a do-or-die final every week on their path to the finals.
First they accounted for Hoppers Crossing in the elimination final before proceeding to beat Deer Park and Caroline Springs.
“There’s a lot of different feelings heading into the weekend,” he said.
“We’re really proud to have three sides involved in grand finals. This week is tough especially when guys know they might be missing out. Everyone is raring to go.
“We’ve had a month of challenges to get here. Our second half of the month has had us to build to this point and we’re excited about the challenge that lays ahead.”
KEY PLAYERS TO WATCH
Josh Bench, Altona
One of the stars of the competition. Bench has put together another brilliant season. Has remarkable been named in the best 15 out of 18 games.
Elliot Cavallaro, Altona
Rejoined the club at the start of the season and hasn’t looked back. Has a terrific goal sense and get put it between the big sticks in a variety of ways. Has 60 goals for the season.
Steve Kennedy, Altona
The Altona skipper remains one of the elite players in the competition. Played in the club’s last premiership and his experience could be invaluable on the big stage.
Ben McMahon, Werribee Districts
One of the best ruckman in the competition. McMahon’s back half of the season has been nothing short of brilliant. Has shown he likes the match up against Altona after a three-goal performance back in Round 2.
Connor Menadue, Altona
Arguably the biggest name in the Vikings’ line-up. Menadue has been brilliant in his return from AFL level with his junior club. Has 32 goals to his name and looms as a matchwinner.
Daniel Nielson, Werribee Districts
The former North Melbourne player has again been one of the most important pillars for Gilham’s side this season. Could easily kick a bag if he gets going.
Lachlan Rainbow, Werribee Districts
Which end will he play at? Rainbow has shown throughout the finals series he can win games off his own boot but also do a job defensively.
Dillon Viojo-Rainbow, Werribee Districts
Surely in the mix for the club’s best and fairest this season. Viojo-Rainbow has been impressive in the big games throughout the season. Can do damage forward of centre with 15 goals for the season.
Harrison White, Werribee Districts
A rising star who has announced his arrival in the past few weeks. Can he cap it off with one more big game and a premiership medal?
Taylor Whitford, Altona
Returned for the second semi against Caroline Springs and made an immediate impact. Has played just 10 games this season and should be cherry ripe for this one.
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