Image by Anthony Byron Photography.
By Abby Collins
The stage is set for a colossal showdown between the reigning premiers, Aspley Hornets, and the Redland Victoria Point Sharks, as they recreate last year’s Grand Final match in this weekend’s Preliminary Final.
This season, the Aspley Hornets have the upper hand over the Sharks, having defeated them in Round 7 at the Sharks’ home ground with a score of 13.11 (89) to 9.15 (69).
The Sharks, however, will be eager for revenge after last season’s Grand Final loss.
With this match narrowing three teams down to two, everything is on the line.
As both sides prepare for battle, they’ve made minor strategic adjustments to their line-ups.
The Sharks are excited to welcome back Matt Hammelmann for this crucial game, though they will miss ruckman Craig Malone, who is sidelined with a hamstring injury sustained in last weekend’s semi-final.
Additionally, Jack Rolls replaces Matthew Hambleton in the line-up.
Aspley has made just one change, having found their rhythm in recent games. They will see Raymond Hill return in place of Macauley Lonergan.
Both teams showcase impressive talent, with key players to watch this week including Sharks defenders Adrian Williams and Mitch Stallard, who have proven difficult to bypass throughout the season.
For the Hornets, Errin Wasley-Black and Jordan Arnold were impeccable in their defensive efforts last weekend and will aim to replicate that performance.
The midfield battle will see Will Wolbers and Tom Templeton face off against Jarrod Huddy and Ethan Petterwood, all of whom have demonstrated their ability to create scoring opportunities for their forward lines.
The ruck contest between Huddy and Wolbers will be particularly intriguing, especially with Malone’s absence.
Daniel Annable is not a player to be forgotten as he teams up with Campbell Aston through the midfield, each having made their mark on last weekends game.
Each forward pack features major point scorers, but the dynamic duo of Clay Cameron and Hammelmann will draw the crowd’s attention.
Aspley will be expecting big things from Thomas Watson and the Stackelberg brothers in hope that they can out score the experienced Sharks forward pack.
Aspley’s coach, Adrian Pilgrim, anticipates a tough contest focused on territory.
“I expect this game to be a real arm wrestle,” he stated. “It will be a tightly contested match with plenty of stoppages. Both sides will aim to generate time in their forward half and score from it. Territory will be crucial, determined by who can dominate stoppages and clearances.”
Will Aspley’s quest for a third consecutive flag provide the motivation they need to reach the Grand Final? Or will the Sharks’ fight for redemption prevail?
One thing is certain: this weekend’s Preliminary Final is a must-watch for supporters, as three teams become two.
Who will earn the chance to face Morningside in the final match of the 2024 QAFL season?
