WRFL: Suns and Braybrook meet in Division 3 grand final

Across the ground, there will be potential matchwinners when the Suns and Braybrook face off in the WRFL Division 3 grand final. Here’s who to keep an eye on.

It all comes down to the Suns and Braybrook.

The two sides will face off in the WRFL Division 3 grand final on Sunday afternoon with the Suns set to go in as hot favourites.

Braybrook has found form at the right time of year to storm into its first decider since 2014.

The Suns have won the three previous meetings between the sides this year.

Here are 10 players who could shape the contest.

Shaun Buttigieg-Clarke, Braybrook

Broke through for the 100-goal mark in the preliminary final against Albanvale and will be hoping to hit the scoreboard in a big way at Avalon Airport Oval. This season he has six goals in three games against the Suns. But if he gets his opportunities he’s more than likely to make the most of them.

Dean Cachia, Suns

The Suns coach has enjoyed a magnificent season in front of goal with a resounding 101 majors from just 14 games. What’s been the key is he has taken most of his opportunities including a huge 21 goals against Laverton. Attacks the ball with presence and can bring the ball to ground for his dangerous smalls.

Adam Forth, Braybrook

The general in defence for the Brookers. He’s likely to get the match up on Suns coach Dean Cachia but he’ll also play a key role in ensuring his teammates are sticking to their guns. If the Braybrook back six brings it best, you just never know what could happen.

Suns playing coach Dean Cachia. Picture: Andy Brownbill

Josh Foster. Picture: Andy Brownbill

Josh Foster, Suns

Has enjoyed a brilliant season for the Suns which saw him named in the Team of the Year. The hard running midfielder can turn the game in the middle of the ground with his line breaking speed.

Blake Jago, Suns

A small forward with a keen eye for goal. Jago has booted 55 goals from 14 matches this season and looms as an x-factor. Has six goals in two previous games against Braybrook.

Aidan O‘Rafferty, Braybrook

A classy midfielder who can go forward and sneak goals, he has 11 for the season. O’Rafferty’s smarts around the ground make him a dangerous matchup for any Suns opponent. He has enjoyed playing against them this year with two best on ground displays in their previous three games. Earned a place in the Division 3 Team of the Year.

Nicholas Papakalodoukas, Braybrook

A tough in and under midfielder who isn’t afraid to throw his weight around in the contest which will be key against the Suns’ bigger bodies. Was best on ground against the same opposition in the final game of the home-and-away season. Named in the Division 3 Team of the Year and should be right in best on ground medal contention if the Brookers are to prevail.

Braybrook’s Nicholas Papakalodoukas. Picture: Andy Brownbill

Michael Ryan, Suns

The Suns’ skipper is able to have a strong presence right across the ground, not just in the ruck. He works hard defensively to give his defenders a chop out and it’s a role which will be just as important this weekend.

Adam Scarpino, Suns

Has been sensational at fullback for the Suns throughout the season always taking the opposition’s best forward. Will most likely go to Buttigieg-Clarke on Sunday afternoon for what should be an enthralling battle.

Matthew Turcinovich, Braybrook

His smarts around goal have seen the hybrid forward kicked 50 majors for the season, the second most of any Braybrook player. He’ll be hoping to put together his strongest showing against the Suns yet having kicked just two goals in their previous three meetings.