Bacchus Marsh takes on Ballarat on Saturday at 2.15pm at Maddingley Park
CLUB: BACCHUS MARSH
COACH: Tom German
FOR THE RECORD
(Scoop): The Cobras were one of the first to begin practice matches in early March against East Keilor (EDFL). How did the group go, firstly, and secondly, connect with so many new faces?
(Tom): There were pleasing signs against a really good, strong side. East Keilor (including Heath Shaw) gave us positive feedback from the hit-out. We had a few out for various reasons, we ran a 12-man bench and gave our youngsters an opportunity as reward for their hard work over the pre-season.
(Scoop): Jack Williams, Jason Robinson and Michael Colliver have been touted as high-quality additions to the line-up - tell us about these three in particular...
(Tom): You're right about the quality! Each have displayed genuine enthusiasm and leadership on the track and to the small sample size we've seen on (practice) match day. Jack at key back, Jason at half back, and Michael at half back/wing is an exceptional runner. They're different players, but equally as important.
(Scoop): The Cobras have been heavily reliant on Daniel Burton, Nick Stuhldrier and yourself shouldering very high minutes through the midfield. Can we expect more of the same in 2022 or will you experiment / explore new options?
(Tom): I'm happy with our midfield depth and what it will bring.
IDENTIFIED STRENGTHS
(Tom): Our spine is very solid and our midfield very competitive.
IMPROVEMENTS:
(Tom): More run / better ball movement, etc.
PRE-SEASON TRAINING
(Tom): There's no denying it's been a challenge due to COVID. That aside, I’m very happy with our efforts on the track and with our levels of continuity. Our training camp down at Aireys Inlet was also a success.
DRAW COMMENTS:
(Tom): Overall we weren't unhappy with our draw. It's a very even competition, whichever way you look at it.
PLAYER INS:
Jack Williams (Camperdown), Jason Robinson (Camperdown), Michael Colliver (VAFA), Sam Crea (Glen Orden), Ryan Chandler (Hillside), Rex Hickman (Mallee Eagles), Max Eastmure (Torquay)
PLAYER OUTS:
Ryan Bartlett (work), Lachie Christopher (Mansfield), Jayden Owen (Gisborne), Billy Griffiths (Gordon), Sam Griffiths (Gordon), Kane Dickson (Dunnstown), Kane White (Skipton), Tim Hughes (Skipton), Tom Wardell (Dunnstown)
VFL AFFILIATED PLAYERS:
Nick Stuhldrier (Port Melbourne)
B/MARSH PASS MARK:
(Tom): Finals
IMPROVERS (OUTSIDE OF BACCHUS MARSH):
(Tom): Ballarat
FLAG TIP (OUTSIDE OF BACCHUS MARSH):
(Tom): North Ballarat City
