Coaches Corner

Well its that time of the year when you really want to be in a position to have some fun in the upcoming weeks in finals footy.

The A grade have been chasing their tail since round 3 when we were 3 losses, and no wins, and from there it’s been a big job to try and catch the competition.

There have been some real good wins, none probably as important as the Blackwood win at Blackwood. In what was a shocker of a day weather wise, we really went there knowing we had a job to do, and thankfully due to one of the most disciplined and professional displays from the boys all year we grabbed the points and kept our dream alive. Had we lost it was season over, so it keeps us alive. We then went through the motions but got over Bridgewater on Saturday, and now it’s down to this week’s game against Mt Barker.

We must win and rely on top team Mt Lofty beating Hahndorf, but we are just concentrating on getting our result. Our last few weeks have been good; we have really been playing some good footy and deserve the opportunity to play in finals if we can get the win this week.

The B grade is already set in the elimination final to play Mt Barker, so they will play each other 2 weeks in a row.

As a club we have had some injuries in both grades over the past few weeks, which isn’t always great news, but we do have good depth so it’s all about making the most of your opportunities. Unfortunately club stalwart Michael Hamilton has played his last game for the year after severely injuring his ankle on Saturday in the B’s. We wish you a speedy recovery Hammo.

Anyway we have to prepare for our big game this week, so its important we keep some of the good form up that we have generated in the past month or so.

The U14’s also must win this week, so we wish Dingo and the boys all the best in there quest to snare 5th spot this week.

I must also say thanks to Marc Amstberg for his efforts with the Senior Colts this year, they are playing for pride this week as there season comes to an end, but even though there have been some disappointing results as a group this year, some of the individual improvements especially in the last 6-8 weeks has been very encouraging. Well done Amsty and thanks.

Good luck to all players in finals, and lets hope we can keep the Doggies alive over the next few weeks.

Go you Doggies

Shane Collins
Coach