Connor Didcock will be an important in for the Rovers against Waaia in the senior football. Photos by Mel Sampson.
The Deni Rovers return from the league wide bye tomorrow with the challenge of taking on Waaia.
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The Rovers had a good round against Picola United before their week off, winning all netball and football matches, and will be out to continue this form in round eight against Waaia who also performed well against Jerilderie before the bye.
Unlike the dysfunction of the Bombers in the AFL, Waaia is firing on all cylinders in the senior football so far this Picola League season.
Last year’s league runners-up, have been undefeated so far this season heading into the bye.
Following last round’s performance against Picola, Rovers senior football coach Alex Hay said there are a few areas of focus for the side going forward despite a 54 point win.
“We played some really good footy against Picola a fortnight ago.
“It was pleasing to be able to put four quarters together with a strong emphasis on sustained pressure.
“Defensively, we were strong and played a forward half game, which gave us plenty of opportunities.
“Unfortunately, the one blemish on our game was to finish our good work. It’s something that we've worked hard to address over the bye weekend.”
The Rovers’ opponents will provide a really stern test for the team, which Hay said he is excited for.
“Waaia have set the standard for the competition over the last five to six years.
“They have quality players all over the park and a really sound system that they execute consistently.
“This is something that we are striving for and have been building towards for a few years now, so its a really exciting opportunity to see where we are at.
“We have played some exceptional football this year, but we have also had lapses which have allowed teams back into the game when we've had control. That will certainly be something that we need to mitigate this weekend.
“They are obviously really strong through the middle of the ground and forward of the ball, but I think that our midfield is building into a real force.
“Defensively, I couldn't be happier with what we are doing, so I'm excited to see some match ups go head-to-head on the weekend.”
Hay said the Rovers could have some important inclusions to the side for Saturday.
“We will definitely have Hayden Barker and Connor Didcock back, which is great.
“Barks (Hayden Barker) provides some outstanding leadership, and Diddy (Connor Didcock) has become crucial to our defensive system and done some really good jobs this year so that will be a boost for us.
“Barring that, there will be a few thrown up for selection pending availability on Thursday night.”
The Rovers will be looking to make the most of their attacking opportunities this week against Waaia.
The Rovers brought sustained pressure in their last senior football match against Picola United.
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