Our Bond University QWAFL previews continue today with 2016 grand finalists Yeronga South Brisbane coming under the microscope.
Last time we saw them:
Yeronga had a very successful and consistent 2016 campaign, notching 14 wins in their 16 games to finish second on the QWAFL ladder on percentage. The Devils ended up going down to Coolangatta in the hard-fought grand final by two points. Joint QWAFL best and fairest Sam Virgo was a standout player in Yeronga’s line-up last year but will be rested for the start of the competition alongside Brisbane Lions and Devils teammates Emily Bates, Kate McCarthy, Jade Ransfield, Caitlin Collins and Delissa Kimmince.
What to expect:
Without their star players for the foreseeable future, the Devils will be looking to their other experienced players to step up. A big plus for Yeronga through the offseason has been their turnover at the bottom end of their list, with coach Scott Stephens confirming the club has seen close to 30 new players walk through their doors. There are still a couple of injuries hanging around the club, namely Nat Thomas who has been managing a foot complaint and Jordan Zanchetta who is coming back from a knee reconstruction (due to return early May). The Devils should remain competitive this year although don’t be surprised if the competition becomes a lot tighter at the top of the ladder.
On the radar:
After a best-on-ground performance in last year’s grand final, Renee Cowan is one to watch in 2017. Coming from a background in soccer, 28-year-old Cowan has worked tirelessly on her technical skills and understanding of the game over the last couple of years to become a key component of Yeronga’s side. A gruelling pre-season which included work with Craig Starcevich and the Brisbane Lions train on squad means Cowan is ready to take it to the next level for Yeronga this year.
2016 Stats:
Ladder Position: 2nd
Wins: 14
Losses: 2
From the coach:
“As a group we want to improve. We’ll tweak our game plans a little bit so we’re not predictable and doing what we did last year.”
- Yeronga coach Scott Stephens
Round 1:
Coolangatta Tweed Vs. Yeronga South Brisbane
4:45pm Sat April 1
Len Peake Oval
By Josh Cheadle
