In the four League matches played between Gibson and Esperance this season, the accumulated margin between the two is just seven points in favour of the Tigers.
The closeness between the two sides could be an indication of how the teams will fare in tomorrow’s qualifying final at Gibson Oval.
Gibson were six and 14 point winners earlier in the season in matches at Esperance Oval as the Bulldogs responded with a 23 point win in round eight on the Tigers’ home deck.
Gibson vs Tigers. photo: Greg Symes.
The last meeting between the two sides a fortnight ago was a low-scoring struggle in wet conditions with Gibson kicking the last three goals including one on the siren, to win by 10 points, the biggest lead of the entire match.
Both teams have been the benchmark for the League this season and as previous scorelines indicate, they are evenly matched when both squads are at full strength.
Gibson coach Aogan McCallion and spearhead Jordan McAllister were rested for the Tigers’ match against Ports last weekend.
The pair will be likely to return to the Tigers’ side for tomorrow’s qualifying final after their teams 51 point win against the Blues last Saturday.
Midfielder Edward Graham, defender Liam Baines and forward Matt Harding made welcome additions to the Bulldogs’ lineup against the Lions last Saturday after missing the previous matchup with the Tigers.
An eight-goal third quarter after an inaccurate first half laid the platform for Esperance’s 124 point win, tall target Sam Franzone kicking six goals for the Bulldogs.
Esperance vs Newtown-Condingup. Photo: Greg Symes.
Meanwhile, Newtown-Condingup and Ports will be looking to prolong their season for one more week with victory in the elimination final on Sunday at Ports Oval.
The Lions will rely on their older heads such as captain Regan Morris; Ben Leopold; and Nathan and Tyson Francis to establish victory as Ports’ side are collectively one of the youngest in League history.
One thing in favour of the Blues is that their youthful legs may be able to outrun the Lions and they should be able to generate forward drive late in the match.
It is just a question of how the Ports players adapt to the pressure of senior finals, with bouncedown scheduled for 3.10pm.
