Right: Moorabbin Kangaroo player Fia Tootoo is returning for the second semifinal this Saturday and will need to be jumping to stop the mighty Doveton Eagles.By Glen Atwell
JUST like card players, the Moorabbin Kangaroos have got their best poker faces on in the lead-up to second semi-final against Southern Football League rival Doveton Eagles.
But at 2.15pm on Ben Kavanagh Reserve this Saturday, the Kangaroos will be forced to show their best hand.
Two weeks ago the Division Three powerhouses clashed at the Kangaroos’ home and it was the Eagles that showed a royal flush, belting the Kangaroos by 79 points.
After being soundly beaten by the Eagles during their two encounters this year, Kangaroos coach Brad Collins said his side had backs to the wall.
“We’re definitely going in underdogs, but we were far from our best in round 18.
“And finals football is a completely different kettle of fish,” Collins said.
The Tootoo brothers, Anthony and Fia, return to the side this week and Collins is expecting big things.
“We’re looking for a big finals series from the Tootoos,” he said.
Collins said six players were missing from the line-up in round 18, but makes no excuses.
“We’ve been touched up by the Eagles this year.
“But with key players returning and a full strength side on the field, you never know,” Collins said.
Perhaps most importantly for the Kangaroos is Mimo Dimashki, who must kick goals if the Kangaroos are to win.
“Mimo will be important, that’s for sure,” Collins said.
Collins named Kangaroo defender Casey Mazoletti as the man to stop Eagles’ goalkicking machine Travis Gardner.
Adapting to the wide expanses of Kavanagh Reserve won’t be a factor, according to Collins.
“Some inexperienced players can get lost on a ground that size, but we’ve got plenty of experienced players in the group,” he said.
Eagles coach Paul Wilson said he was expecting a number of Kangaroos to return to the side for the second semi-final.
“I expected about four to run out last time that didn’t, so they’ll definitely have some players back,” he said.
Wilson said his players were ready for a fiery contest.
“I’m expecting it to be a bruising encounter, just like it was in round 18.
“The week off for the winner will be very valuable,” Wilson said.
It was a true test of character for the Doveton players, who rolled out of bed and on to Power Reserve for an early training session last Sunday.
“It was hard getting a few boys out of bed,” Wilson laughed. “But it was a great session, the team is nice and fresh.”
