As the Kangaroo’s come off consecutive interstate trips to face the well-rested Eagles at their home ground, the words ‘David’ and ‘Goliath’ come to mind…
West Coast Eagles take on North Melbourne Kangaroo’s on Saturday at Domain Stadium, bounce down at 5.45pm.
West Coast will come into this prelim as hot favourites after producing dominating performances week after week this season. They have only lost twice at home in 2015, and managed to unhinge Hawthorn (the reigning Premiers) in the qualifying final two weeks ago.
The Roo’s have won nine of their last eleven matches and after half the side was rested in round 23, many of the players could still be relatively fresh. North have defied critics this season, being the first team in history to make a preliminary final from eighth spot on the ladder. They have also won two of their last three matches at Domain Stadium so they seem to grasp this ground well.
West Coast’s Scott Selwood and Patrick McGinnity will be the likely suspects to make way for the return of Brownlow medallist Matt Priddis and midfielder Chris Masten. They both missed the last match due to injury, however coach Adam Simpson has said during the week that both players are “on the right track”, indicating an almost certain inclusion into the team.
Explosive midfielder Luke Shuey has also had an injury cloud hovering above his head after being seen in a moon boot. He apparently missed training last week, however he was spotted moving freely at training on Monday.
All eyes will be on the match-up in the ruck with West Coast high flyer Nic Naitanui and Roo’s 2015 All Australian Todd Goldstein set to produce a mouth watering display of height and strength. Perhaps the game will be won in accordance with which ruckman makes the bigger impact…?
The Kangaroo’s killed me in the footy tipping this season, you can never pick what they are going to produce on the day! Unfortunately, I think even their best efforts wont be enough against the powerful Eagles.
I’m tipping West Coast to win by 20 points.
Let us know your finals predictions: @TweetPerth @Emmalianapayne
