There will be some cold ones on ice for after the Bull Sharks – Tweed Coast game when a couple of old friends from the coaching ranks reunite.
But first there’s a game to be won and you can bet the Bull Sharks brains trust of Kain Ford, Shaun Hart and Matthew Kennedy will be doing everything in their power to ruin Tigers coach Dean Solomon’s day.
Missing the party will be another former colleague at the Gold Coast Suns Andy Lovell who will be trying to secure the points in the QAFLW clash against Yeronga.
QFA
Bull Sharks v Tweed Coast at The Canal
Last time we met
Round 12 2024 at Tweed
Bull Sharks won 7.10 (52) - 7.5 (47)
We were challenged all day but came away with a win which was pleasing. The men put enormous pressure on the opposition in the later stages of the game to force them into error and consequently turnover. It was an old-fashioned team effort which the coaching group acknowledged post-game.
The opposition
Tweed Coast had a massive win last week and will be a real challenge for us. Their coach, Dean Solomon is one of the most astute coaches in the country and will have them well-structured and playing with plenty of spirit. Tweed always plays with spirit.
The challenge
We must learn from last week and get back to the way we want to play. We need to absolutely respect the opposition, get away to a good start and not let them get any momentum at all as they can score quickly.
Shuffling the magnets
There could be up to five changes this week with injury and returning players. The inclusions should add to our stocks although we will lose a couple of key players which balances the ledger.
Ones to watch
Jed Kowald should make a return this week after being back in his home state of WA. He is a running machine with great skills and an appetite for the contest and will be a very handy inclusion for us.
The focus
Go in with a strong mindset and understanding of what has worked for us. Get away to a good start and hit the scoreboard as they will get their tails up if we let them in early.
Final word
A loss is disappointing although as we all appreciate, we learn and get better. The boys can’t wait to go around this weekend and expel a few demons from last weekend and get back to our winning ways.
With Matthew Kennedy
QAFLW
Bull Sharks v Yeronga at Leyshon Park
Last time we met
Round 9, 2024 at The Canal.
Bull Sharks won 15.11 (101) - 1.0 (6)
Bond dominated in a home game kicking four goals from centre bounce. A true team defensive effort, we were able to launch multiple attacking plays off the back of very strong team defence structure and shape.
The opposition
Yeronga are struggling, they’ve lost many key players to opposition clubs.
The challenge
The challenge for us will be to stay really disciplined to our style of footy and not go outside the parameters we’ve created. Ensure everyone plays their role and shows genuine team care because there is pressure on spots in the senior team. Team orientated footy is our major focus.
Shuffling the magnets
Trinity Ella will be out with a knee injury, there is an injury cloud over Charlotte Taylor after a high head knock last week and Abby Bevan and Bella Iverach must pass fitness tests to be cleared to play. The girls in the reserves who are pushing for a spot on the team include Matilda Clarkson as a small defender and Sarah Heptinstall
Ones to watch
Evie Reeves had an outstanding best on ground game last week. Grace Ella across half back and Alicia Withers who is new to the club from Broadbeach Cats were also good. And keep an eye on goal kickers Kendra Blattman and Brianna Moyes.
The focus
Get the four points and stay in touch with Southport and Morningside. It’s imperative that we win the right way and maintain momentum
The final word
We are really looking forward to how the girls approach this game. We want them to maintain the pressure and our focus on team orientated footy.
With Andy Lovell