SPRINGWOOD have had a not-so-successful time this year but the chance is there for them to go better than in their season 2010 campaign.
By Terry Wilson
The Roos host Maroochy-Northshore at Lowe Oval on Saturday and are chasing their fourth win of the season, which would eclipse last year’s record of three victories.
Definitely improved, the Pumas nevertheless have not jumped up the ladder, although under coach Paul Opbroek there are some promising signs.
The club remains on a learning curve, but what has really hurt them has been the loss of too many experienced players at vital stages.
‘But a good thing is that when we have been spanked we’ve bounced back,” said Opbroek.
There are two important reasons for the Pumas to perform. Stalwart Rob Raudino has been named for his 150th game for the club and Matt Hendry will be playing his 100th in senior grade.
Adding to the cause are the returns of on-baller Matt Hockley, a hot favourite for the best and fairest, forward Adrian Sipple and newcomer David Ritchie, a club junior product for his first-grade debut.
Ritchie is the 12th club junior to make an initial seniors appearance this season.
“:There will probably be just as much intensity as a Noosa-Sandgate game in this one when you consider what’s involved in it,” said Opbroek.
Maroochy, meanwhile, have been rocked by an illness to tough centre half-forward Peter Hay, who is recovering in hospital after a blood clot was detected in his brain.
Coach Roger Delaney said Hay appears to be recovering well and is in reasonable condition at this stage.
“We’re hoping he’s all right more than anything else,” said Delaney when asked if Hay’s situation will be used by his players as motivation.
“Sine he made his comeback earlier, Peter has been the difference between us being competitive in the second half of year.
“I rate him as good as anyone in the competition at centre half-forward.”
Hay, Harley Read and Matt Dimmick are the changes to Maroochy’s line-up, replaced by Andrew Waas, Jim Coleman and ruckman Tyson Williams.
