ORBOST SNOWY ROVERS
Current position: Fifth
Points: 24
Strengths: A physical side who play the smaller grounds as good as anyone. The Blues have a potent forward line led by co-captain Hamish Nettleton who gets good support from brother Curtley and developing small forwards like the Fenner brothers. Wes Russell is a top class ruckman, while Ash Jonkers has been a revelation through the middle when he has played, offering much-needed support to Braeden Ross and Gus Rogers. Max Welsh has been sensational at centre half back, his exquisite kicking a feature.
Weaknesses: In recent weeks the Blues’ depth has been tested by injury. Their game plan has evolved in recent seasons but is still vulnerable to real pressure that sides like Wy Yung put on their half backs transitioning the ball forward. That pressure can make life tough for the forwards. They don’t play as well on the big grounds. Miss the run and carry of Max Herbert.
Key player: Hamish Nettleton – he’s the barometer, if he has a huge day, the Blues nearly always win.
Run home: Paynesville (A), Boisdale Briagolong (H), Lindenow (A), Stratford (H), Lakes Entrance (A) and Lucknow (H).
Prediction: A tough run home for the Blues if they are to match last year’s effort of playing finals. They will need to win all six matches to ensure a spot, as five may not be enough with an inferior percentage to the four sides above them. A tough ask and will probably just come up short. If they can make it they are always capable of causing an upset.
IMAGE: Orbost Snowy’s Hamish Nettleton
