Place Preview - Another Crunch Game for Reserves
Andrew Thomson
With every match now assuming finals-like importance the Western Magpies Reserves can take another big step toward what looked like a finals appearance a month ago, with another win over third placed Wilston Grange on Saturday.
The Pies had a good win over the Gorillas a fortnight ago and then followed it up with a resounding victory over Broadbeach last week to turn their season around.
The Pies have several changes to the team with Matt Thompson, Riley Easton and Jae Humphrey promoted to the Seniors and Jadan Morton and Brodie Easton other players unavailable due to a pre-planned bye weekend break.
In comes Redlands listed ruckman Liam Dwyer after a lay off with a hand injury which will be a big help to the Pies in ruck as back up ruckman Tadiwa Parirenyatwa suffered a serious knee injury at training on Thursday night. Dwyer will take some of the load off young ruckman Monty Vine who has been good recently.
Matt Garland up forward must be close to a senior recall but he will be a key player if the Pies are to repeat their victory of 2 weeks ago. Jake Heard has returned to his explosive best across half forward and Luke de Nys gets better each week now he has shrugged off his injury woes.
In midfield the consistent Bryce Crossley with support from the ever improving Logan Murray, Matt Mazarolle and Ben Hooper will need to get their hands on the football to drive the Pies forward.
Key defenders Sean McEvoy and Gabe McKinnon have both been excellent and have had good support from James Page and Nathan Morrow, another pair getting better with each match.
The Magpies are not be at full strength this week and it will take a big effort to prevail, but a win will be vital in the push toward a finals position at year's end.
Place Preview - brought to you by 2015 Major Sponsor - Place Graceville
The fantastic team at Place have recently signed on for the 2015-2017 seasons as one of our valued club partners and sponsors, and as much as the club appreciates their support - Place will appreciate the club support in return. So for all your real estate needs, make sure Place are your one stop shop.
As an added bonus, Place will be providing further financial support to the club for every new listing - so make sure you tell them you're from the Western Magpies Community when you talk to them and support those that support you!