A classic Group 9 rivalry is set to ignite this weekend as the Southcity Bulls host theYoung Cherrypickers in a pivotal match for both clubs. For the Cherrypickers, this game is a chance to build on recent momentum and solidify a top-three spot. For the Bulls, it’s an opportunity to find consistency and prove they are a team capable of challenging the competition’s best.
Cherrypickers president Andrew Smith believes his side is heading into the game with a new found confidence, particularly after a strong performance against Gundagai. He praised the return of key players, noting that they are crucial to the team’s success.
“Tom Demeio returned early for us to play against Gundagai. He was excellent. He’s got two games under his belt now, so I’m looking forward to him getting back to his best over the next few games, which is pretty pivotal with the side.”
Smith is well aware of the challenge that a home-ground Bulls side presents. He respects their talent and acknowledges that their ladder position doesn’t reflect their full potential. “South City aren’t going to be an easy side. They’re very similar to Albury. You don’t know which one you’re going to get, and playing them at home, in Wagga, is certainly going to be on the tougher side of things. We expect a different side to what we played the first time around.” He specifically highlighted two of Southcity’s danger men: “They’ve got the last year’s Weissel medal winner, Kyle McCarthy. He’s a veteran, but he’s a very good footballer. Cleve McGhie can turn a game on its head by himself if he’s switched on. They’ve got a good side all over the park, which sort of surprises me with where they’re sitting on the ladder.”
The inconsistency in the Bulls’ game, according to Smith, is their biggest downfall. He believes they can compete but have just fallen short in “icing their moments.” “It’s obvious they had similar problems to us, like getting their game faces on and just ice their moments, which they just fall short of in some games, but they are certainly a good football team. A lot of good individuals on the side.”
Ultimately, for the Cherrypickers, this clash is about more than just a victory. It’s about building form and maintaining a strong “for and against” as they eye a top-two finish.
“It just goes to show that we’re a good quality football side and we’re not going to be one to be forgotten when it comes to the finals too. We’ve certainly got a good chance to take it out again, if we can put our best foot forward. It’s always a big asset to have a good for and against. Certainly, we are aiming for that third or second spot… our main focus is just to play good footy and win the remaining three games and take some good form into the finals.”
With the home crowd behind them and a desperate need for a win, the Bulls will be looking to prove their president’s words right. The Cherrypickers, meanwhile, will be aiming to consolidate their position as a genuine premiership contender. This local derby promises to be a fiery and intense contest with plenty on the line.
– Tully Potts
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