BeeEmmAre
10th September 2008, 12:43 AM
GRAND FINALS
FIRST DIVISION SENIORS
UTS (1st 18-1) v MANLY-WARRINGAH (2nd 14-6)
At Kelso Oval, 2.45pm Saturday
How they got here
UTS BATS MANLY-WARRINGAH WOLVES
11.14 80 def Manly-Warringah 9.6 60 Round 1 9.6 60 lost to UTS 11.14 80
15.21 111 def Holroyd-Parramatta 4.5 29 Round 2 12.5 77 lost to Southern Sharks 14.14 98
19.15 129 def Penrith 1.5 11 Round 3 14.16 100 def Holroyd-Parramatta 11.12 78
16.16 112 def Macquarie University13.10 88 Round 4 33.14 212 def Nor-West 7.8 50
22.13 145 def Southern Sharks 8.7 55 Round 5 33.17 215 def Camden 8.4 52
17.13 115 def Camden 6.3 39 Round 6 26.17 173 def Penrith 3.8 26
14.9 93 lost to Manly-Warringah 19.15 129 Round 7 19.15 129 def UTS 14.9 93
28.13 181 def Nor-West 10.3 63 Round 8 16.17 113 def Southern Sharks 12.8 80
11.22 88 def Holroyd-Parramatta 5.6 36 Round 9 22.9 141 def Macquarie University 7.8 50
14.29 113 def Penrith 3.6 24 Round 10 10.14 74 def Holroyd-Parramatta 10.7 67
12.9 81 def Macquarie University 8.6 54 Round 11 19.16 130 def Nor-West 5.4 34
22.20 152 def Southern Sharks 3.5 23 Round 12 20.17 137 def Camden 12.10 82
29.20 194 def Camden 0.10 10 Round 13 23.13 151 def Penrith 10.4 64
22.10 142 def Holroyd-Parramatta 7.8 50 Round 14 14.14 98 def Macquarie University 11.4 70
17.16 118 def Nor-West 4.3 27 Round 15 8.6 54 lost to Southern Sharks 13.9 87
17.12 114 def Macquarie University 10.8 68 Round 16 12.15 87 lost to Holroyd-Parramatta 14.9 93
19.12 126 def Manly-Warringah 10.4 64 Round 17 10.4 64 lost to UTS 19.12 126
13.21 99 def Southern Sharks 7.2 44 Round 18 13.24 102 def Nor-West 9.4 58
15.8 98 def Manly-Warringah 12.12 84 Finals Week 1 12.12 84 lost to UTS 15.8 98
BYE Finals Week 2 10.12 72 def Holroyd-Parramatta 4.4 28
Season Head to Head: UTS 3, Manly-Warringah 1
Second Semi Final: UTS 15.8 98 def Manly-Warringah 12.12 84 (Wagener Oval)
Goals: UTS: A Thain 7, S Hissey, J Aitken, J Ryan 2, J Urban, L Trimboli. MANLY-WARRINGAH: E Jarvie 3, M Dodds 2, D McMillan, D Canham, M Webb, M Rawle, B Hawkins, R Hart, C Pridgeon.
Best: UTS: E Rasheed, R Moten, A Keith, C Mintern, J Ryan, L Flanagan. MANLY-WARRINGAH: B Brendan, T Armitage, B Hawkins, B Joseph, R Hart, D Canham.
Round 17: UTS 19.12 126 def Manly-Warringah 10.4 64 (Weldon Oval)
Goals: UTS: J Ryan 8, A Davis, B Nitschke, D Pearce 3, E Rasheed, J Aitken. MANLY-WARRINGAH: M Rawle 4, M Dodds 2, D McMillan, D Canham, D Pearson, T Armitage.
Best: UTS: D Mitchell, J Ryan, J Aitken, A Keith, M Ryan, R Eagle. MANLY-WARRINGAH: J Gloede, A Whitelaw, D McMillan, T Armitage, D Canham, E Jarvie.
Round 7: Manly-Warringah 19.15 129 def UTS 14.9 93 (Trumper Park)
Goals: MANLY-WARRINGAH: M Rawle 4, S Murray, M Dodds 3, D Canham, R Hart, S MacKinlay 2, D McMillan, M Webb, K Hayward. UTS: A Thain 6, A Davis 3, D Mitchell, E Rasheed, L Flanagan, J Urban, D Teasdale.
Best: MANLY-WARRINGAH: K Hayward, B Hawkins, M Webb, T Armitage, D McMillan, R Hart. UTS: L Flanagan, M Atkinson, A Whooley, J Urban, C Mintern, A Thain.
Round 1: UTS 11.14 80 def Manly-Warringah 9.6 60 (Weldon Oval)
Goals: UTS: J Aitken 3, S Hissey, E Rasheed, B Rundle, G Capozzi, S Quinn, A Davis, J Urban, J Ryan. MANLY-WARRINGAH: S Murray 3, M Rawle, B Blake 2, D Canham, T Armitage.
Best: UTS: S Hissey, J Lynas, G Capozzi, J Ryan, J Urban, D Teasdale. MANLY-WARRINGAH: R Hart, S Murray, B Joseph, K Hayward, D Stroud, M Webb.
The rundown: We?ve seen four showdowns so far this year between the two teams that are easily the best in First Division, and it is fitting that No.5 is in the grand final. However, despite the fact that the ledger stands at 3-1 in favour of the Bats, it will still be 0-0 when they run out at Kelso on Saturday. The Bats are the clear favourites, but the Wolves still have the memory of last year?s thrilling extra time win at the forefront of their minds and as defending premiers, there will be that little bit more motivation. How good would it be to see another classic like that one? I think this match will be decided at full forward, with the result possibly depending on Andrew Thain v Matt Rawle. Thain might have enough mates to help him.
The Verdict: UTS by 13 points
FIRST DIVISION RESERVES
UTS (1st 17-1) v MANLY-WARRINGAH (2nd 16-3-1)
At Kelso Oval, 12.30pm Saturday
How they got here
UTS BATS MANLY-WARRINGAH WOLVES
16.11 107 def Manly-Warringah 5.11 41 Round 1 5.11 41 lost to UTS 16.11 107
15.7 97 def Holroyd-Parramatta 8.6 54 Round 2 9.15 69 def Southern Sharks 6.5 41
28.20 194 def Penrith 1.0 6 Round 3 16.13 109 def Holroyd-Parramatta 2.6 18
17.15 117 def Macquarie University 6.8 44 Round 4 22.17 149 def Nor-West 3.2 20
23.17 155 def Southern Sharks 5.5 35 Round 5 39.18 252 def Camden 1.1 7
31.31 217 def Camden 1.1 7 Round 6 32.27 215 def Penrith 2.3 15
9.7 61 lost to Manly-Warringah 12.15 87 Round 7 12.15 87 def UTS 9.7 61
11.14 80 def Nor-West 7.5 47 Round 8 9.9 63 drew Southern Sharks 9.9 63
15.13 103 def Holroyd-Parramatta 3.6 24 Round 9 15.21 111 def Macquarie University 3.6 24
def Penrith on forfeit Round 10 22.24 156 def Holroyd-Parramatta 1.2 8
9.13 67 def Macquarie University 8.7 55 Round 11 18.9 117 def Nor-West 3.7 25
17.10 112 def Southern Sharks 8.7 55 Round 12 31.18 204 def Camden 3.2 20
35.29 229 def Camden 0.0 0 Round 13 def Penrith on forfeit
18.15 123 def Holroyd-Parramatta 8.4 52 Round 14 19.8 122 def Macquarie University 7.2 44
20.25 145 def Nor-West 0.3 3 Round 15 11.9 75 def Southern Sharks 7.4 46
17.17 119 def Macquarie University 1.2 8 Round 16 19.9 123 def Holroyd-Parramatta 6.1 37
12.8 80 def Manly-Warringah 8.7 55 Round 17 8.7 55 lost to UTS 12.8 80
10.16 76 def Southern Sharks 1.4 10 Round 18 14.11 95 def Nor-West 3.1 19
16.6 102 def Manly-Warringah 5.7 37 Finals Week 1 5.7 37 lost to UTS 16.6 102
BYE Finals Week 2 4.7 31 def Macquarie University 3.4 22
Season Head to Head: UTS 3, Manly-Warringah 1
Second Semi Final: UTS 16.6 102 def Manly-Warringah 5.7 37 (Wagener Oval)
Goals: UTS: A Leach 5, P Taylor, M Cotton 3, D Beaton, B Rundle, N Allardice, J Wheeler, T Paech. MANLY-WARRINGAH: B Andrews 3, M McWhirter, R Clack.
Best: UTS: J Wheeler, A Leach, D Bailey, B Holland, A Morley, S Silver. MANLY-WARRINGAH: C White, B Andrews, A Ahern, P Bourke, C Hickford, M McWhirter.
Round 17: UTS 12.8 80 def Manly-Warringah 8.7 55 (Weldon Oval)
Goals: UTS: T Paech 3, G Capozzi, S Neal 2, D Beaton, M Cotton, A Morley, A Leach, J Urban. MANLY-WARRINGAH: L Slobin 2, D Fagan, M Cobon, S Addicott, R Wharton, S MacKinlay, R Clack.
Best: UTS: J Urban, M Jenkins, A Morley, D Beaton, D Goggin, B Rundle. MANLY-WARRINGAH: M Jackman, R Wharton, D Fagan, A Ahern, B Atkinson, N Mc Donagh.
Round 7: Manly-Warringah 12.15 87 def UTS 9.7 61 (Trumper Park)
Goals: MANLY-WARRINGAH: B Andrews 5, B Collins 4, D Fagan, S Addicott, R Clack. UTS: T Paech 4, J Pallpratt, M Jenkins, P Taylor, A Leach, J Wheeler.
Best: MANLY-WARRINGAH: B Andrews, M Jackman, B Collins, J McGrath, M Gumbleton, T Hickford. UTS: A Leach, J Pallpratt, B Rundle, I Weir, B Holland, B Watson.
Round 1: UTS 16.11 107 def Manly-Warringah 5.11 41 (Weldon Oval)
Goals: UTS: P Taylor 4, A Thain 4, N Allardice 2, T Paech 2, J Jones, M Atkinson, A Morley, J Wheeler. MANLY-WARRINGAH: S Addicott 2, M Dodds, T Atkinson, L Slobin.
Best: UTS: M Atkinson, J Colbert, R Henderson, M Russell, B Nitschke, A Thain. MANLY-WARRINGAH: B Collins, D. Cambridge, R Clack, T Hickford, J Cowling, D Purtle.
The rundown: While the Bats put their feet up and rested last week, the Wolves were forced to fight out a tough slog in wet conditions against a determined Warriors outfit. That alone hands favouritism to UTS as they chase another reserves premiership. Add to that the three convincing wins they?ve had in the four clashes this year and it?s hard to see them being beaten. However, the Wolves are the only team to knock the Bats off this year, doing it on their home ground at Trumper Park, and they will take some confidence from that. Grand finals are a different beast, but UTS should win and win well.
The Verdict: UTS by 46 points
SECOND DIVISION
PENNANT HILLS (1st 16-2-1) v SYDNEY UNIVERSITY BLUE (2nd 17-3)
At Kelso Oval, 8am Saturday
How they got here
PENNANT HILLS DEMONS SYDNEY UNIVERSITY STUDENTS BLUE
12.11 83 def UTS 6.8 44 Round 1 10.9 69 def UNSWES Bulldogs 7.9 51
4.6 30 def UNSWES Bulldogs 2.10 22 Round 2 16.19 115 def Sydney University Red 1.3 9
11.10 76 def Moorebank Sports 6.10 46 Round 3 19.9 123 def UTS 5.4 34
13.15 93 def Sydney University Red 4.1 25 Round 4 28.29 187 def Macquarie University 1.1 7
20.22 142 def Manly-Warringah 1.0 6 Round 5 24.23 167 def Holroyd-Parramatta 0.0 0
27.24 186 def Macquarie University 1.4 10 Round 6 26.9 165 def Moorebank Sports 2.1 13
22.15 147 def Macquarie University 4.5 29 ]Round 7[/b] 16.14 110 def UNSWES Whales 10.5 65
17.12 114 def UNSWES Whales 7.15 57 Round 8 18.15 123 def Manly-Warringah 2.1 13
29.21 195 def Holroyd-Parramatta 2.0 12 Round 9 7.16 58 lost to Sydney University Red 9.8 62
7.9 51 def Sydney University Blue 6.12 48 Round 10 6.12 48 lost to Pennant Hills 7.9 51
12.16 88 def Sydney University Red 4.11 35 Round 11 18.10 118 UNSWES Bulldogs 10.4 64
21.16 142 def Holroyd-Parramatta 4.1 25 Round 12 21.9 135 def UTS 2.5 17
12.10 82 def Moorebank Sports 7.10 52 Round 13 def Macquarie University on forfeit
7.8 50 lost to UNSWES Bulldogs 15.15 105 Round 14 11.8 74 def Moorebank Sports 6.7 43
18.19 127 def Manly-Warringah 2.5 17 Round 15 24.31 175 def Holroyd-Parramatta 2.1 13
24.16 160 def UNSWES Whales 9.3 57 Round 16 21.25 151 def Manly-Warringah 5.2 32
11.8 74 lost to Sydney University Blue 11.11 77 Round 17 11.11 77 def Pennant Hills 11.8 74
drew UTS washed out Round 18 23.15 153 def UNSWES Whales 3.6 24
13.11 89 def Sydney University Blue 4.10 34 Finals Week 1 4.10 34 lost to Pennant Hills 13.11 89
BYE Finals Week 2 12.13 85 def UNSWES Bulldogs 0.6 6
Season Head to Head: Pennant Hills 2, Sydney University Blue 1
Second Semi Final: Pennant Hills 13.11 89 def Sydney University Blue 4.10 34 (Wagener Oval)
Goals: PENNANT HILLS: M Hayman 4, P Randazzo 3, R Laing 2, J Myers, P Barclay, N Ryan, N Aitken. BLUE: D Archer 2, C Greatbatch, G Mitchell.
Best: PENNANT HILLS: M Hayman, M Leeds, M White, J Myers, R Laing, B Ryan. BLUE: C Johnson, T Lewis, P Urizar-Climent, L McDowall, N Marquez, C O''Donnell.
Round 17: Sydney University Blue 11.11 77 def Pennant Hills 11.8 74 (St Paul?s Oval)
Goals: BLUE: C Greatbatch 3, B Morgan 3, N McKinnon 2, J Swarts, Z Wallis, P Urizar-Climent. PENNANT HILLS: P Randazzo 3, G Hume 3, D Smith, J Myers, C Laing, J Porter, R McCleland.
Best: BLUE: J Swarts, C O?Donnell, B Gwilliam, B Morgan, M Nicholson, Z Wallis. PENNANT HILLS: M Hayman, B Miles, M White, D Bilbe, J Myers, P Barclay.
Round 10: Pennant Hills 7.9 51 def Sydney University Blue 6.12 48 (Ern Holmes Oval)
Goals: PENNANT HILLS: J Rakic 2, D Boulet, M Hayman, L Corr, G Hume, R McCleland. BLUE: B Brown 2, D Owen, L McDowall, P Tangney, B Heys.
Best: PENNANT HILLS: S Hodgson, N Ryan, B Miles, J Myers, N Breen, M White. BLUE: M McCleary, B Brown, P Tangney, C O?Donnell, H Thomas, P Urizar-Climent.
The rundown: After two absolute thrillers between these teams during the home and away season, the Demons gained a massive psychological boost in their bid for back to back premierships with a dominant display in the second semi final two weeks ago. However, the Students bounced back with a vengeance last week, making a mockery of the wet conditions to hold the Bulldogs goalless in a massive confidence boost. There is nothing between them and selecting a winner is probably not much more than flipping a coin. I?m going to place my stock in that second semi final result, although it will be a lot closer this time around.
The Verdict: Pennant Hills by 9 points
UNDER 18 CHALLENGE CUP
UNSW-EASTERN SUBURBS (1st 19-0) v SOUTHERN POWER (2nd 12-8)
At Kelso Oval, 10.15am Saturday
How they got here
UNSW-EASTERN SUBURBS BULLDOGS SOUTHERN POWER
18.15 123 def Southern Power 2.4 16 Round 1 2.4 16 lost to UNSWES 18.15 123
def Pennant Hills on forfeit Round 2 3.6 24 lost to Manly-Warringah 18.11 119
25.13 163 def Moorebank Sports 4.3 27 Round 3 8.11 59 lost to Macquarie University 11.8 74
19.13 127 def East Coast 6.8 44 Round 4 12.9 81 def Penrith 6.5 41
15.14 104 def Manly-Warringah 5.5 35 Round 5 8.10 58 lost to Moorebank Sports 11.7 73
12.13 85 def Macquarie University 9.4 58 Round 6 13.16 94 def East Coast 5.10 40
13.19 97 def Southern Power 14.5 89 ]Round 7[/b] 14.5 89 lost to UNSWES 13.19 97
20.14 134 def Pennant Hills 5.1 31 Round 8 7.12 54 lost to Manly-Warringah 9.12 66
15.12 102 def Penrith 2.4 16 Round 9 12.13 85 def Pennant Hills 6.10 46
18.10 118 def Moorebank Sports 3.4 22 Round 10 11.13 79 def Macquarie University 7.8 50
15.13 103 def East Coast 6.8 44 Round 11 11.13 79 def Penrith 6.15 51
17.12 114 def Manly-Warringah 10.6 66 Round 12 15.7 97 def Moorebank Sports 8.8 56
8.15 63 def Macquarie University 4.8 32 Round 13 14.13 97 def East Coast 5.7 37
14.12 96 def Penrith 5.6 36 Round 14 12.15 87 def Pennant Hills 7.2 44
28.26 194 def Pennant Hills 1.2 8 Round 15 14.13 97 def Manly-Warringah 3.6 24
15.16 106 def Southern Power 6.3 39 Round 16 6.3 39 lost to UNSWES 15.16 106
9.6 60 def Moorebank Sports 6.7 43 Round 17 8.4 52 lost to Penrith 7.14 56
11.11 77 def Manly-Warringah 0.7 7 Round 18 6.7 43 def Moorebank Sports 5.4 34
16.21 117 def Macquarie University 5.5 35 Finals Week 16.4 40 def Manly-Warringah 5.8 38
BYE Finals Week 2 3.11 29 def Macquarie University 3.4 22
Season Head to Head: UNSWES 3, Southern Power 0
Round 16: UNSWES 15.16 106 def Southern Power 6.3 39 (Village Green)
Goals: UNSWES: L Williams 5, M Lewis 2, A Gulden 2, J Moore 2, C McKinlay, N McGann, A Haberley, E Okunbor. SOUTHERN POWER: M Cairnduff 2, C Byron, A Stacey, L Jansson, L Hall.
Best: UNSWES: E Okunbor, D Ward, M Lewis, A Gulden, C Jourdain, G Robinson. SOUTHERN POWER: M Young, M Cairnduff, J Brown, R Vance, W Batty, A Cook.
Round 7: UNSWES 13.19 97 def Southern Power 14.5 89 (Gwawley Oval)
Goals: UNSWES: A Henderson 4, N Whitehead 3, L Williams 2, N Bell, A Haberley, J Moore, E Okunbor. SOUTHERN POWER: M Cairnduff 2, L Hall 2, T Carter 2, D Wood, J Mahoney, J Brown, M Young, A Stacey, B Brooks, C Schultz, L Allen.
Best: UNSWES: L MacLeay, A Henderson, A Haberley, N Bell, J Moore, N Whitehead. SOUTHERN POWER: M Young, J Brown, L Jansson, M Cairnduff, D Wood, A Cook.
Round 1: UNSWES 18.15 123 def Southern Power 2.4 16 (Gwawley Oval)
Goals: UNSWES: L Williams 6, N Whitehead 4, C McKinlay 2, A Haberley 2, D Helfenbaun, L MacLeay, K Emery, J Moore. SOUTHERN POWER: M Cairnduff, L Hall
Best: UNSWES: K Emery, A Haberley, L Elasi, J Moore, L MacLeay, E Okunbor. SOUTHERN POWER: J Brown, M Young, L Hall, C Byron, M Cairnduff, R Vance.
The rundown: The Bulldogs have been virtually unstoppable all season, romping to a perfect 19-0 record. Included in that are three victories over this week?s opponents. One match, in round 7, was a thriller ? and it was one of the better matches I saw this year. The Power had their chances that day with the Dogs spraying a few shots at goal, but they couldn?t quite get it done, and all things being equal, I can?t see that changing this week. The Power have also played two high pressure matches in the past two weeks and showed a lot of ticker to get here, but would have also expended a lot of energy. Undefeated premiers is a huge accolade, and while many, many teams have fallen at the final hurdle trying to achieve that goal, it?s unlikely to happen this time. The Bulldogs easily.
The Verdict: UNSWES by 60 points
PRELIMINARY FINALS
PREMIER LEAGUE
UNSW-EASTERN SUBURBS (2nd 15-4) v EAST COAST (3rd 15-5)
At Henson Park, 2.20pm Sunday
Last Five Games: UNSWES WWWWL; East Coast WLWWW
Season Head to Head: UNSWES 1, East Coast 1
Round 11: East Coast 16.12 108 def UNSWES 8.13 61 (Charles McLaughlin Reserve)
Goals: EAST COAST: A Floyd 3, L Furlan, B Rogers, G Seebeck, R Smyth 2. UNSWES: B Abbott, L Jarjoura 3.
Best: EAST COAST: A McLennan, J Vlatko, E Wilson. UNSWES: T Luff, P Kefalas, D Rampe.
Round 1: UNSWES 15.4 94 def East Coast 10.12 72 (Henson Park)
Goals: UNSWES: B Abbott 5, D Rampe, J Kiel 2. EAST COAST: A Floyd 3, G Garner, L Stanford 2.
Best: UNSWES: D Rampe, L Jarjoura, A Darling. EAST COAST: P Entwistle, D Bowles, R Bilkey.
The rundown: The Bulldogs have clearly been in the best two teams in the competition every since round one, when they destroyed the Eagles in a dominant first half on this ground. However, after having to slog their way through the terrible conditions in Wollongong last weekend, they looked decidedly vulnerable in this match. Super Abbott sits on 88 goals and needs two big bags to get his ton, and will need to get one here for his team to win, while Jarjoura, Luff and Rampe all need to be at their best as well. Regaining Darling and Stephen Pech will be a bonus after they were rested from the mud running. The Eagles have been outstanding in their two finals so far and the question is whether the Dogs can stop Seebeck, Floyd, Byerlee and Rogers. The boys from the Village Green deserve to start favourite, but I can see a second Hills Derby grand final in three years.
The Verdict: East Coast by 15 points
PREMIER LEAGUE RESERVES
PENNANT HILLS (2nd 16-3-1) v SYDNEY UNIVERSITY (3rd 14-6)
At Henson Park, 12pm Sunday
Last Five Games: Pennant Hills WLWWL, Sydney University WWWWW
Season Head to Head: Pennant Hills 1, Sydney University 1
Round 13: Pennant Hills 8.11 59 def Sydney University 5.7 37 (Ern Holmes Oval)
Goals: PENNANT HILLS: S Low, S Jones 2. SYDNEY UNIVERSITY: M Nicholson 2.
Best: PENNANT HILLS: D Boulet, B Miles, M Hossen. SYDNEY UNIVERSITY: L Barnes, T Ly, M McCleary.
Round 4: Sydney University 11.19 85 def Pennant Hills 12.12 84 (Sydney Uni No.1 Oval)
Goals: SYDNEY UNIVERSITY: S Crichton, B Fletcher 2. PENNANT HILLS: B McLean 4, P McLaren 2.
Best: SYDNEY UNIVERSITY: A Hawkins, N Costello, J Leary. PENNANT HILLS: S Widmer, P Barnes, B McLean.
The rundown: The Students are the surprise packet of the finals, having come through two sudden death encounters, including one against a Bulldogs? team that sat on top all year. However, they have now won five in a row and would have the confidence of knowing they can beat the Demons after doing so in round four. The teams are a lot different since then and the Demons need to find a way to regroup after their mud bath last week, while the Students turned in a blistering second half. The underdogs are a huge chance here, but it looks like Eagles-Demons for the third year in a row for mine.
The Verdict: Pennant Hills by 22 points
UNDER 18 PREMIER CUP
EAST COAST (2nd 12-6) v PENNANT HILLS (3rd 13-5)
At Henson Park, 9.45am Sunday
Last Five Games: East Coast LLWWL, Pennant Hills LWWLW
Season Head to Head: East Coast 1, Pennant Hills 0
Qualifying Final: East Coast 10.10 70 def Pennant Hills 10.6 66 (Henson Park)
Goals: EAST COAST: J Gordon 4, J Steer 2, J Moeller, M Power, J Shephard, T Stubbs. PENNANT HILLS: A Govender 3, F Nixon 2, R Green 2, C Smith, M Thomas, N Varnish.
Best: EAST COAST: T Stubbs, J Collis, J Gordon, D Clinch, J Steer, J Shephard. PENNANT HILLS: M Thomas, C Smith, J Schwarze, A Govender, D Witt, N Baglin.
Round 17: Pennant Hills 10.11 71 def East Coast 5.5 35 (Ern Holmes Oval)
Goals: PENNANT HILLS: M Thomas 4, J Ferguson 2, C Smith, J Schwarze, N Baglin, A Govender. EAST COAST: J Gordon, J Dwyer, J Shephard, T Stubbs, J Steer.
Best: PENNANT HILLS: M Thomas, J Ferguson, J Schwarze, S McCreanor, L Cocks, D Witt. EAST COAST: J Collis, J Shephard, M Bailey, S Pinchen, J Steer, M Karafilis.
Round 6: Pennant Hills 10.11 71 def East Coast 8.6 54 (Charles McLaughlin Reserve)
Goals: PENNANT HILLS: K Fenaroli 2, R Green 2, J Schwarze, J Clare, M Thomas, R Wordsworth, A Govender, L Cocks. EAST COAST: J Steer 2, D Clinch, J Dwyer, S Pierce, B Carey, J Shephard, T Roberts.
Best: PENNANT HILLS: M Thomas, D Witt, R Green, N Varnish, J Schwarze, K Fenaroli. EAST COAST: J Shephard, M Power, S Pierce, A Burns, M Karafilis, J Gordon.
The rundown: One thing stands out about the three meetings between these teams, and that is the 10 goals kicked by the Demons in all of them. The Eagles turned the tables with an excellent victory over their rivals two weeks ago, but the result of that was having to slog it out down in Wollongong. They fell short despite being within striking distance all day and would love another crack at the Bombers. Can they get it though? Pennant Hills also had to fight hard before outlasting Campbelltown and their fresher legs may prove to be an important factor in this one.
The Verdict: Pennant Hills by 10 points
FIRST DIVISION SENIORS
UTS (1st 18-1) v MANLY-WARRINGAH (2nd 14-6)
At Kelso Oval, 2.45pm Saturday
How they got here
UTS BATS MANLY-WARRINGAH WOLVES
11.14 80 def Manly-Warringah 9.6 60 Round 1 9.6 60 lost to UTS 11.14 80
15.21 111 def Holroyd-Parramatta 4.5 29 Round 2 12.5 77 lost to Southern Sharks 14.14 98
19.15 129 def Penrith 1.5 11 Round 3 14.16 100 def Holroyd-Parramatta 11.12 78
16.16 112 def Macquarie University13.10 88 Round 4 33.14 212 def Nor-West 7.8 50
22.13 145 def Southern Sharks 8.7 55 Round 5 33.17 215 def Camden 8.4 52
17.13 115 def Camden 6.3 39 Round 6 26.17 173 def Penrith 3.8 26
14.9 93 lost to Manly-Warringah 19.15 129 Round 7 19.15 129 def UTS 14.9 93
28.13 181 def Nor-West 10.3 63 Round 8 16.17 113 def Southern Sharks 12.8 80
11.22 88 def Holroyd-Parramatta 5.6 36 Round 9 22.9 141 def Macquarie University 7.8 50
14.29 113 def Penrith 3.6 24 Round 10 10.14 74 def Holroyd-Parramatta 10.7 67
12.9 81 def Macquarie University 8.6 54 Round 11 19.16 130 def Nor-West 5.4 34
22.20 152 def Southern Sharks 3.5 23 Round 12 20.17 137 def Camden 12.10 82
29.20 194 def Camden 0.10 10 Round 13 23.13 151 def Penrith 10.4 64
22.10 142 def Holroyd-Parramatta 7.8 50 Round 14 14.14 98 def Macquarie University 11.4 70
17.16 118 def Nor-West 4.3 27 Round 15 8.6 54 lost to Southern Sharks 13.9 87
17.12 114 def Macquarie University 10.8 68 Round 16 12.15 87 lost to Holroyd-Parramatta 14.9 93
19.12 126 def Manly-Warringah 10.4 64 Round 17 10.4 64 lost to UTS 19.12 126
13.21 99 def Southern Sharks 7.2 44 Round 18 13.24 102 def Nor-West 9.4 58
15.8 98 def Manly-Warringah 12.12 84 Finals Week 1 12.12 84 lost to UTS 15.8 98
BYE Finals Week 2 10.12 72 def Holroyd-Parramatta 4.4 28
Season Head to Head: UTS 3, Manly-Warringah 1
Second Semi Final: UTS 15.8 98 def Manly-Warringah 12.12 84 (Wagener Oval)
Goals: UTS: A Thain 7, S Hissey, J Aitken, J Ryan 2, J Urban, L Trimboli. MANLY-WARRINGAH: E Jarvie 3, M Dodds 2, D McMillan, D Canham, M Webb, M Rawle, B Hawkins, R Hart, C Pridgeon.
Best: UTS: E Rasheed, R Moten, A Keith, C Mintern, J Ryan, L Flanagan. MANLY-WARRINGAH: B Brendan, T Armitage, B Hawkins, B Joseph, R Hart, D Canham.
Round 17: UTS 19.12 126 def Manly-Warringah 10.4 64 (Weldon Oval)
Goals: UTS: J Ryan 8, A Davis, B Nitschke, D Pearce 3, E Rasheed, J Aitken. MANLY-WARRINGAH: M Rawle 4, M Dodds 2, D McMillan, D Canham, D Pearson, T Armitage.
Best: UTS: D Mitchell, J Ryan, J Aitken, A Keith, M Ryan, R Eagle. MANLY-WARRINGAH: J Gloede, A Whitelaw, D McMillan, T Armitage, D Canham, E Jarvie.
Round 7: Manly-Warringah 19.15 129 def UTS 14.9 93 (Trumper Park)
Goals: MANLY-WARRINGAH: M Rawle 4, S Murray, M Dodds 3, D Canham, R Hart, S MacKinlay 2, D McMillan, M Webb, K Hayward. UTS: A Thain 6, A Davis 3, D Mitchell, E Rasheed, L Flanagan, J Urban, D Teasdale.
Best: MANLY-WARRINGAH: K Hayward, B Hawkins, M Webb, T Armitage, D McMillan, R Hart. UTS: L Flanagan, M Atkinson, A Whooley, J Urban, C Mintern, A Thain.
Round 1: UTS 11.14 80 def Manly-Warringah 9.6 60 (Weldon Oval)
Goals: UTS: J Aitken 3, S Hissey, E Rasheed, B Rundle, G Capozzi, S Quinn, A Davis, J Urban, J Ryan. MANLY-WARRINGAH: S Murray 3, M Rawle, B Blake 2, D Canham, T Armitage.
Best: UTS: S Hissey, J Lynas, G Capozzi, J Ryan, J Urban, D Teasdale. MANLY-WARRINGAH: R Hart, S Murray, B Joseph, K Hayward, D Stroud, M Webb.
The rundown: We?ve seen four showdowns so far this year between the two teams that are easily the best in First Division, and it is fitting that No.5 is in the grand final. However, despite the fact that the ledger stands at 3-1 in favour of the Bats, it will still be 0-0 when they run out at Kelso on Saturday. The Bats are the clear favourites, but the Wolves still have the memory of last year?s thrilling extra time win at the forefront of their minds and as defending premiers, there will be that little bit more motivation. How good would it be to see another classic like that one? I think this match will be decided at full forward, with the result possibly depending on Andrew Thain v Matt Rawle. Thain might have enough mates to help him.
The Verdict: UTS by 13 points
FIRST DIVISION RESERVES
UTS (1st 17-1) v MANLY-WARRINGAH (2nd 16-3-1)
At Kelso Oval, 12.30pm Saturday
How they got here
UTS BATS MANLY-WARRINGAH WOLVES
16.11 107 def Manly-Warringah 5.11 41 Round 1 5.11 41 lost to UTS 16.11 107
15.7 97 def Holroyd-Parramatta 8.6 54 Round 2 9.15 69 def Southern Sharks 6.5 41
28.20 194 def Penrith 1.0 6 Round 3 16.13 109 def Holroyd-Parramatta 2.6 18
17.15 117 def Macquarie University 6.8 44 Round 4 22.17 149 def Nor-West 3.2 20
23.17 155 def Southern Sharks 5.5 35 Round 5 39.18 252 def Camden 1.1 7
31.31 217 def Camden 1.1 7 Round 6 32.27 215 def Penrith 2.3 15
9.7 61 lost to Manly-Warringah 12.15 87 Round 7 12.15 87 def UTS 9.7 61
11.14 80 def Nor-West 7.5 47 Round 8 9.9 63 drew Southern Sharks 9.9 63
15.13 103 def Holroyd-Parramatta 3.6 24 Round 9 15.21 111 def Macquarie University 3.6 24
def Penrith on forfeit Round 10 22.24 156 def Holroyd-Parramatta 1.2 8
9.13 67 def Macquarie University 8.7 55 Round 11 18.9 117 def Nor-West 3.7 25
17.10 112 def Southern Sharks 8.7 55 Round 12 31.18 204 def Camden 3.2 20
35.29 229 def Camden 0.0 0 Round 13 def Penrith on forfeit
18.15 123 def Holroyd-Parramatta 8.4 52 Round 14 19.8 122 def Macquarie University 7.2 44
20.25 145 def Nor-West 0.3 3 Round 15 11.9 75 def Southern Sharks 7.4 46
17.17 119 def Macquarie University 1.2 8 Round 16 19.9 123 def Holroyd-Parramatta 6.1 37
12.8 80 def Manly-Warringah 8.7 55 Round 17 8.7 55 lost to UTS 12.8 80
10.16 76 def Southern Sharks 1.4 10 Round 18 14.11 95 def Nor-West 3.1 19
16.6 102 def Manly-Warringah 5.7 37 Finals Week 1 5.7 37 lost to UTS 16.6 102
BYE Finals Week 2 4.7 31 def Macquarie University 3.4 22
Season Head to Head: UTS 3, Manly-Warringah 1
Second Semi Final: UTS 16.6 102 def Manly-Warringah 5.7 37 (Wagener Oval)
Goals: UTS: A Leach 5, P Taylor, M Cotton 3, D Beaton, B Rundle, N Allardice, J Wheeler, T Paech. MANLY-WARRINGAH: B Andrews 3, M McWhirter, R Clack.
Best: UTS: J Wheeler, A Leach, D Bailey, B Holland, A Morley, S Silver. MANLY-WARRINGAH: C White, B Andrews, A Ahern, P Bourke, C Hickford, M McWhirter.
Round 17: UTS 12.8 80 def Manly-Warringah 8.7 55 (Weldon Oval)
Goals: UTS: T Paech 3, G Capozzi, S Neal 2, D Beaton, M Cotton, A Morley, A Leach, J Urban. MANLY-WARRINGAH: L Slobin 2, D Fagan, M Cobon, S Addicott, R Wharton, S MacKinlay, R Clack.
Best: UTS: J Urban, M Jenkins, A Morley, D Beaton, D Goggin, B Rundle. MANLY-WARRINGAH: M Jackman, R Wharton, D Fagan, A Ahern, B Atkinson, N Mc Donagh.
Round 7: Manly-Warringah 12.15 87 def UTS 9.7 61 (Trumper Park)
Goals: MANLY-WARRINGAH: B Andrews 5, B Collins 4, D Fagan, S Addicott, R Clack. UTS: T Paech 4, J Pallpratt, M Jenkins, P Taylor, A Leach, J Wheeler.
Best: MANLY-WARRINGAH: B Andrews, M Jackman, B Collins, J McGrath, M Gumbleton, T Hickford. UTS: A Leach, J Pallpratt, B Rundle, I Weir, B Holland, B Watson.
Round 1: UTS 16.11 107 def Manly-Warringah 5.11 41 (Weldon Oval)
Goals: UTS: P Taylor 4, A Thain 4, N Allardice 2, T Paech 2, J Jones, M Atkinson, A Morley, J Wheeler. MANLY-WARRINGAH: S Addicott 2, M Dodds, T Atkinson, L Slobin.
Best: UTS: M Atkinson, J Colbert, R Henderson, M Russell, B Nitschke, A Thain. MANLY-WARRINGAH: B Collins, D. Cambridge, R Clack, T Hickford, J Cowling, D Purtle.
The rundown: While the Bats put their feet up and rested last week, the Wolves were forced to fight out a tough slog in wet conditions against a determined Warriors outfit. That alone hands favouritism to UTS as they chase another reserves premiership. Add to that the three convincing wins they?ve had in the four clashes this year and it?s hard to see them being beaten. However, the Wolves are the only team to knock the Bats off this year, doing it on their home ground at Trumper Park, and they will take some confidence from that. Grand finals are a different beast, but UTS should win and win well.
The Verdict: UTS by 46 points
SECOND DIVISION
PENNANT HILLS (1st 16-2-1) v SYDNEY UNIVERSITY BLUE (2nd 17-3)
At Kelso Oval, 8am Saturday
How they got here
PENNANT HILLS DEMONS SYDNEY UNIVERSITY STUDENTS BLUE
12.11 83 def UTS 6.8 44 Round 1 10.9 69 def UNSWES Bulldogs 7.9 51
4.6 30 def UNSWES Bulldogs 2.10 22 Round 2 16.19 115 def Sydney University Red 1.3 9
11.10 76 def Moorebank Sports 6.10 46 Round 3 19.9 123 def UTS 5.4 34
13.15 93 def Sydney University Red 4.1 25 Round 4 28.29 187 def Macquarie University 1.1 7
20.22 142 def Manly-Warringah 1.0 6 Round 5 24.23 167 def Holroyd-Parramatta 0.0 0
27.24 186 def Macquarie University 1.4 10 Round 6 26.9 165 def Moorebank Sports 2.1 13
22.15 147 def Macquarie University 4.5 29 ]Round 7[/b] 16.14 110 def UNSWES Whales 10.5 65
17.12 114 def UNSWES Whales 7.15 57 Round 8 18.15 123 def Manly-Warringah 2.1 13
29.21 195 def Holroyd-Parramatta 2.0 12 Round 9 7.16 58 lost to Sydney University Red 9.8 62
7.9 51 def Sydney University Blue 6.12 48 Round 10 6.12 48 lost to Pennant Hills 7.9 51
12.16 88 def Sydney University Red 4.11 35 Round 11 18.10 118 UNSWES Bulldogs 10.4 64
21.16 142 def Holroyd-Parramatta 4.1 25 Round 12 21.9 135 def UTS 2.5 17
12.10 82 def Moorebank Sports 7.10 52 Round 13 def Macquarie University on forfeit
7.8 50 lost to UNSWES Bulldogs 15.15 105 Round 14 11.8 74 def Moorebank Sports 6.7 43
18.19 127 def Manly-Warringah 2.5 17 Round 15 24.31 175 def Holroyd-Parramatta 2.1 13
24.16 160 def UNSWES Whales 9.3 57 Round 16 21.25 151 def Manly-Warringah 5.2 32
11.8 74 lost to Sydney University Blue 11.11 77 Round 17 11.11 77 def Pennant Hills 11.8 74
drew UTS washed out Round 18 23.15 153 def UNSWES Whales 3.6 24
13.11 89 def Sydney University Blue 4.10 34 Finals Week 1 4.10 34 lost to Pennant Hills 13.11 89
BYE Finals Week 2 12.13 85 def UNSWES Bulldogs 0.6 6
Season Head to Head: Pennant Hills 2, Sydney University Blue 1
Second Semi Final: Pennant Hills 13.11 89 def Sydney University Blue 4.10 34 (Wagener Oval)
Goals: PENNANT HILLS: M Hayman 4, P Randazzo 3, R Laing 2, J Myers, P Barclay, N Ryan, N Aitken. BLUE: D Archer 2, C Greatbatch, G Mitchell.
Best: PENNANT HILLS: M Hayman, M Leeds, M White, J Myers, R Laing, B Ryan. BLUE: C Johnson, T Lewis, P Urizar-Climent, L McDowall, N Marquez, C O''Donnell.
Round 17: Sydney University Blue 11.11 77 def Pennant Hills 11.8 74 (St Paul?s Oval)
Goals: BLUE: C Greatbatch 3, B Morgan 3, N McKinnon 2, J Swarts, Z Wallis, P Urizar-Climent. PENNANT HILLS: P Randazzo 3, G Hume 3, D Smith, J Myers, C Laing, J Porter, R McCleland.
Best: BLUE: J Swarts, C O?Donnell, B Gwilliam, B Morgan, M Nicholson, Z Wallis. PENNANT HILLS: M Hayman, B Miles, M White, D Bilbe, J Myers, P Barclay.
Round 10: Pennant Hills 7.9 51 def Sydney University Blue 6.12 48 (Ern Holmes Oval)
Goals: PENNANT HILLS: J Rakic 2, D Boulet, M Hayman, L Corr, G Hume, R McCleland. BLUE: B Brown 2, D Owen, L McDowall, P Tangney, B Heys.
Best: PENNANT HILLS: S Hodgson, N Ryan, B Miles, J Myers, N Breen, M White. BLUE: M McCleary, B Brown, P Tangney, C O?Donnell, H Thomas, P Urizar-Climent.
The rundown: After two absolute thrillers between these teams during the home and away season, the Demons gained a massive psychological boost in their bid for back to back premierships with a dominant display in the second semi final two weeks ago. However, the Students bounced back with a vengeance last week, making a mockery of the wet conditions to hold the Bulldogs goalless in a massive confidence boost. There is nothing between them and selecting a winner is probably not much more than flipping a coin. I?m going to place my stock in that second semi final result, although it will be a lot closer this time around.
The Verdict: Pennant Hills by 9 points
UNDER 18 CHALLENGE CUP
UNSW-EASTERN SUBURBS (1st 19-0) v SOUTHERN POWER (2nd 12-8)
At Kelso Oval, 10.15am Saturday
How they got here
UNSW-EASTERN SUBURBS BULLDOGS SOUTHERN POWER
18.15 123 def Southern Power 2.4 16 Round 1 2.4 16 lost to UNSWES 18.15 123
def Pennant Hills on forfeit Round 2 3.6 24 lost to Manly-Warringah 18.11 119
25.13 163 def Moorebank Sports 4.3 27 Round 3 8.11 59 lost to Macquarie University 11.8 74
19.13 127 def East Coast 6.8 44 Round 4 12.9 81 def Penrith 6.5 41
15.14 104 def Manly-Warringah 5.5 35 Round 5 8.10 58 lost to Moorebank Sports 11.7 73
12.13 85 def Macquarie University 9.4 58 Round 6 13.16 94 def East Coast 5.10 40
13.19 97 def Southern Power 14.5 89 ]Round 7[/b] 14.5 89 lost to UNSWES 13.19 97
20.14 134 def Pennant Hills 5.1 31 Round 8 7.12 54 lost to Manly-Warringah 9.12 66
15.12 102 def Penrith 2.4 16 Round 9 12.13 85 def Pennant Hills 6.10 46
18.10 118 def Moorebank Sports 3.4 22 Round 10 11.13 79 def Macquarie University 7.8 50
15.13 103 def East Coast 6.8 44 Round 11 11.13 79 def Penrith 6.15 51
17.12 114 def Manly-Warringah 10.6 66 Round 12 15.7 97 def Moorebank Sports 8.8 56
8.15 63 def Macquarie University 4.8 32 Round 13 14.13 97 def East Coast 5.7 37
14.12 96 def Penrith 5.6 36 Round 14 12.15 87 def Pennant Hills 7.2 44
28.26 194 def Pennant Hills 1.2 8 Round 15 14.13 97 def Manly-Warringah 3.6 24
15.16 106 def Southern Power 6.3 39 Round 16 6.3 39 lost to UNSWES 15.16 106
9.6 60 def Moorebank Sports 6.7 43 Round 17 8.4 52 lost to Penrith 7.14 56
11.11 77 def Manly-Warringah 0.7 7 Round 18 6.7 43 def Moorebank Sports 5.4 34
16.21 117 def Macquarie University 5.5 35 Finals Week 16.4 40 def Manly-Warringah 5.8 38
BYE Finals Week 2 3.11 29 def Macquarie University 3.4 22
Season Head to Head: UNSWES 3, Southern Power 0
Round 16: UNSWES 15.16 106 def Southern Power 6.3 39 (Village Green)
Goals: UNSWES: L Williams 5, M Lewis 2, A Gulden 2, J Moore 2, C McKinlay, N McGann, A Haberley, E Okunbor. SOUTHERN POWER: M Cairnduff 2, C Byron, A Stacey, L Jansson, L Hall.
Best: UNSWES: E Okunbor, D Ward, M Lewis, A Gulden, C Jourdain, G Robinson. SOUTHERN POWER: M Young, M Cairnduff, J Brown, R Vance, W Batty, A Cook.
Round 7: UNSWES 13.19 97 def Southern Power 14.5 89 (Gwawley Oval)
Goals: UNSWES: A Henderson 4, N Whitehead 3, L Williams 2, N Bell, A Haberley, J Moore, E Okunbor. SOUTHERN POWER: M Cairnduff 2, L Hall 2, T Carter 2, D Wood, J Mahoney, J Brown, M Young, A Stacey, B Brooks, C Schultz, L Allen.
Best: UNSWES: L MacLeay, A Henderson, A Haberley, N Bell, J Moore, N Whitehead. SOUTHERN POWER: M Young, J Brown, L Jansson, M Cairnduff, D Wood, A Cook.
Round 1: UNSWES 18.15 123 def Southern Power 2.4 16 (Gwawley Oval)
Goals: UNSWES: L Williams 6, N Whitehead 4, C McKinlay 2, A Haberley 2, D Helfenbaun, L MacLeay, K Emery, J Moore. SOUTHERN POWER: M Cairnduff, L Hall
Best: UNSWES: K Emery, A Haberley, L Elasi, J Moore, L MacLeay, E Okunbor. SOUTHERN POWER: J Brown, M Young, L Hall, C Byron, M Cairnduff, R Vance.
The rundown: The Bulldogs have been virtually unstoppable all season, romping to a perfect 19-0 record. Included in that are three victories over this week?s opponents. One match, in round 7, was a thriller ? and it was one of the better matches I saw this year. The Power had their chances that day with the Dogs spraying a few shots at goal, but they couldn?t quite get it done, and all things being equal, I can?t see that changing this week. The Power have also played two high pressure matches in the past two weeks and showed a lot of ticker to get here, but would have also expended a lot of energy. Undefeated premiers is a huge accolade, and while many, many teams have fallen at the final hurdle trying to achieve that goal, it?s unlikely to happen this time. The Bulldogs easily.
The Verdict: UNSWES by 60 points
PRELIMINARY FINALS
PREMIER LEAGUE
UNSW-EASTERN SUBURBS (2nd 15-4) v EAST COAST (3rd 15-5)
At Henson Park, 2.20pm Sunday
Last Five Games: UNSWES WWWWL; East Coast WLWWW
Season Head to Head: UNSWES 1, East Coast 1
Round 11: East Coast 16.12 108 def UNSWES 8.13 61 (Charles McLaughlin Reserve)
Goals: EAST COAST: A Floyd 3, L Furlan, B Rogers, G Seebeck, R Smyth 2. UNSWES: B Abbott, L Jarjoura 3.
Best: EAST COAST: A McLennan, J Vlatko, E Wilson. UNSWES: T Luff, P Kefalas, D Rampe.
Round 1: UNSWES 15.4 94 def East Coast 10.12 72 (Henson Park)
Goals: UNSWES: B Abbott 5, D Rampe, J Kiel 2. EAST COAST: A Floyd 3, G Garner, L Stanford 2.
Best: UNSWES: D Rampe, L Jarjoura, A Darling. EAST COAST: P Entwistle, D Bowles, R Bilkey.
The rundown: The Bulldogs have clearly been in the best two teams in the competition every since round one, when they destroyed the Eagles in a dominant first half on this ground. However, after having to slog their way through the terrible conditions in Wollongong last weekend, they looked decidedly vulnerable in this match. Super Abbott sits on 88 goals and needs two big bags to get his ton, and will need to get one here for his team to win, while Jarjoura, Luff and Rampe all need to be at their best as well. Regaining Darling and Stephen Pech will be a bonus after they were rested from the mud running. The Eagles have been outstanding in their two finals so far and the question is whether the Dogs can stop Seebeck, Floyd, Byerlee and Rogers. The boys from the Village Green deserve to start favourite, but I can see a second Hills Derby grand final in three years.
The Verdict: East Coast by 15 points
PREMIER LEAGUE RESERVES
PENNANT HILLS (2nd 16-3-1) v SYDNEY UNIVERSITY (3rd 14-6)
At Henson Park, 12pm Sunday
Last Five Games: Pennant Hills WLWWL, Sydney University WWWWW
Season Head to Head: Pennant Hills 1, Sydney University 1
Round 13: Pennant Hills 8.11 59 def Sydney University 5.7 37 (Ern Holmes Oval)
Goals: PENNANT HILLS: S Low, S Jones 2. SYDNEY UNIVERSITY: M Nicholson 2.
Best: PENNANT HILLS: D Boulet, B Miles, M Hossen. SYDNEY UNIVERSITY: L Barnes, T Ly, M McCleary.
Round 4: Sydney University 11.19 85 def Pennant Hills 12.12 84 (Sydney Uni No.1 Oval)
Goals: SYDNEY UNIVERSITY: S Crichton, B Fletcher 2. PENNANT HILLS: B McLean 4, P McLaren 2.
Best: SYDNEY UNIVERSITY: A Hawkins, N Costello, J Leary. PENNANT HILLS: S Widmer, P Barnes, B McLean.
The rundown: The Students are the surprise packet of the finals, having come through two sudden death encounters, including one against a Bulldogs? team that sat on top all year. However, they have now won five in a row and would have the confidence of knowing they can beat the Demons after doing so in round four. The teams are a lot different since then and the Demons need to find a way to regroup after their mud bath last week, while the Students turned in a blistering second half. The underdogs are a huge chance here, but it looks like Eagles-Demons for the third year in a row for mine.
The Verdict: Pennant Hills by 22 points
UNDER 18 PREMIER CUP
EAST COAST (2nd 12-6) v PENNANT HILLS (3rd 13-5)
At Henson Park, 9.45am Sunday
Last Five Games: East Coast LLWWL, Pennant Hills LWWLW
Season Head to Head: East Coast 1, Pennant Hills 0
Qualifying Final: East Coast 10.10 70 def Pennant Hills 10.6 66 (Henson Park)
Goals: EAST COAST: J Gordon 4, J Steer 2, J Moeller, M Power, J Shephard, T Stubbs. PENNANT HILLS: A Govender 3, F Nixon 2, R Green 2, C Smith, M Thomas, N Varnish.
Best: EAST COAST: T Stubbs, J Collis, J Gordon, D Clinch, J Steer, J Shephard. PENNANT HILLS: M Thomas, C Smith, J Schwarze, A Govender, D Witt, N Baglin.
Round 17: Pennant Hills 10.11 71 def East Coast 5.5 35 (Ern Holmes Oval)
Goals: PENNANT HILLS: M Thomas 4, J Ferguson 2, C Smith, J Schwarze, N Baglin, A Govender. EAST COAST: J Gordon, J Dwyer, J Shephard, T Stubbs, J Steer.
Best: PENNANT HILLS: M Thomas, J Ferguson, J Schwarze, S McCreanor, L Cocks, D Witt. EAST COAST: J Collis, J Shephard, M Bailey, S Pinchen, J Steer, M Karafilis.
Round 6: Pennant Hills 10.11 71 def East Coast 8.6 54 (Charles McLaughlin Reserve)
Goals: PENNANT HILLS: K Fenaroli 2, R Green 2, J Schwarze, J Clare, M Thomas, R Wordsworth, A Govender, L Cocks. EAST COAST: J Steer 2, D Clinch, J Dwyer, S Pierce, B Carey, J Shephard, T Roberts.
Best: PENNANT HILLS: M Thomas, D Witt, R Green, N Varnish, J Schwarze, K Fenaroli. EAST COAST: J Shephard, M Power, S Pierce, A Burns, M Karafilis, J Gordon.
The rundown: One thing stands out about the three meetings between these teams, and that is the 10 goals kicked by the Demons in all of them. The Eagles turned the tables with an excellent victory over their rivals two weeks ago, but the result of that was having to slog it out down in Wollongong. They fell short despite being within striking distance all day and would love another crack at the Bombers. Can they get it though? Pennant Hills also had to fight hard before outlasting Campbelltown and their fresher legs may prove to be an important factor in this one.
The Verdict: Pennant Hills by 10 points