A big day in Bathurst awaits for Round 11 action
The senior sides are back in action this week with some mouth-watering clashes in the senior grades. Parkes and the GIANTS travel to George Park 2 whilst Cowra make the long trek to Dubbo. Top spot in the men’s competition stays with Orange who have the bye and will remain at least one game clear regardless of how results fall whilst in the women’s competition, a loss will see the Panthers drop out of the finals placings.
Round 9 Senior Women’s:
Bathurst Bushrangers vs Orange Tigers – 12:30pm, George Park #1
Orange have one hand on the double chance and are looking to cement that with a win against the Bushrangers. Already a game-and-a-half clear with a game in hand, a win would surely lock in second place for the Tigers. The Bushrangers have been competitive and as the season rolls on, their injury list increases. A considerable number are already out long-term and when fighting for a top-two spot, teams need their best side on the park. The Tigers should win this, probably by three to five goals.
Bathurst GIANTS vs Parkes Panthers – 2:30pm, George Park #1
A rare game at prime time for the ladies who get pushed back to the 2:30pm start due to ground availabilities. The GIANTS have been the standouts of the competition so far, undefeated through seven matches and on top of the table. Parkes meanwhile, have struggled to get consistency in their game. They are competitive for a week, then get blown out of the water. On the road, against the top team, this shapes to being a tough ask for the Pantherettes. GIANTS to cruise to victory here, and on the small GP1, it could be a large margin.
BYE: Cowra Blues
Round 11 Senior Men’s:
Bathurst Bushrangers Rebels vs Bathurst GIANTS – 12:00pm, George Park #2
The GIANTS are looking to play leapfrog with the Bushrangers where a victory for the visitors will bounce them into second place. The Rebels, who were in control of their abandoned match against the Tigers a fortnight prior have plenty of confidence in their ability and will look to put pressure on their rivals early. The Giants have won three straight games including finals challengers Dubbo and the Outlaws and will be keen to add to that against the Rebels. This is the Match of the Round, a clash that could go either way. On home soil and with the double chance up for grabs, the Rebels should win but don’t be surprised if the visitors take the spoils at the final siren.
Bathurst Bushrangers Outlaws vs Parkes Panthers – 2:30pm, George Park #2
The Outlaws probably needed a win last week and their finals chances are slipping away. A win here, sets up a massive encounter away to Dubbo which will be the battle for fourth place. Currently, four points separates the two sides and there is no longer time for slip-ups. Parkes have found it tough all season, with the Round 6 victory over the Giants their highlight and are out of finals contention. A win here is unlikely but would help generate interest as they look towards the 2020 season. The Outlaws simply must win, and with their percentage taking a hit last round, they need to win big. Expect an all guns blazing Outlaws side and one-way traffic in this match.
Dubbo Demons vs Cowra Blues – 2:30pm, South Dubbo Oval
Strong at home, Dubbo will be aiming to win to consolidate fourth spot on the ladder and keep the Outlaws at bay for one more week. This is an important clash for the Demons as it will prepare them for the following week’s Outlaws visit. Cowra will be aiming for one more win this season and although this will be a tough ask away to Dubbo, when their best side gets on the park, they’ve shown to be competitive for periods of matches. Pencil the Demons in for a comfortable win, and look forward to next weekend.
BYE: Orange Tigers
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