North Hobart’s TSL clash with Roos could be a shoot-out between Demon Sean Willis and Roo Josh Green

For the first time in many years North Hobart sits above Clarence on the TSL ladder and the Dees want to keep it that way when they clash this weekend.

Action from TSL game between Clarence v Glenorchy from Richmond Oval. Clarence's, Josh Green celebrates with team mates after kicking a goal. Picture: Zak Simmonds

• Stats and individual ranking of every player in the TSL — here’s how to get them
• Clarence gives Glenorchy one hell of a TSL plucking at Richmond Oval

THE return of sharp-shooter Sean Willis will add spice to North Hobart’s forward line for today’s TSL clash with Clarence at North Hobart Oval but the Demons are wary of the Roos’ green machine Josh Green.

The game is critical to both side’s hopes of finishing in the top four _ the first time the State League finals series has been reduced from a top five.

Clarence onballer Ethan Jackson is a ball-winner North Hobart will watch closely and former Brisbane and Essendon forward Josh Green is likely to attract close attention from Demon defender Hugh Williams.

“Green is dangerous forward of the ball and Jackson is getting around 20 touches and five tackles a game, so he’s a player that is doing some damage for them,” Robinson said.

North Hobart is third on the ladder and Clarence fourth. Both sides are on eight premierships points and separated by only 1.65 per cent.

Action from TSL game between Clarence v Glenorchy from Richmond Oval. Clarence's, Josh Green celebrates with team mates after kicking a goal. Picture: Zak Simmonds

“Clarence has been playing good footy,” said North Hobart coach Richard Robinson.

“They are very good at contested football _ Riley, Jackson and Davis lead the way for them in that regard.

“They tackle really well and ‘Jez’ [Clarence coach Jeromey Webberley] has them playing really good football.

“We’ve got to try and stop ’Jez’s’ ball use as well.

“It’s a massive challenge but one we are looking forward to, particularly back on our home deck.”

Clarence’s switch and run style, combined with its liking for the corridor, is not worlds apart from North Hobart’s attacking brand.

“We are both really young sides and our game styles are pretty similar,” Robinson said.

Big Dee Hamish Allen has a mammoth assignment in the ruck against Roos Ryan Bailey and Sam Green.

“We need Hamish to give us first use of the ball,” Robinson said.

“Willis coming back will add a bit of spark to the forward line and our back six has been good all year so I am expecting the same from them.”