By Abby Collins
This weekend, four becomes three.
The semi-final between Redland-Victoria Point and Palm Beach Currumbin promises to be a thrilling clash as the two teams battle it out for a spot in the preliminary final.
With both sides known for their consistency and contest, this game is sure to be a nail-biter from start to finish.
The Sharks and the Lions have faced off twice this season, with each team securing a victory.
In Round 8, Palm Beach Currumbin emerged victorious with a score of 13.10 (88) to Redland Victoria Point’s 9.19 (73).
However, the Sharks evened the score in Round 14, winning 18.11 (119) to 14.10 (94).
“The last time we played them, they were in a bit of a form slump, but they have found their confidence again since then,” Redland-Victoria Point’s coach, Phil Carse, said.
“We are focusing on the side they were in their game against Wilston Grange last week. We are prepared for them to be at their very best.”
Redland-Victoria Point will field an unchanged line-up for this crucial match, while Palm Beach Currumbin has made one change, bringing in Marcus White in place of Matthew North.
Some key players to watch out for include Cory Beaman, Ben McInney, and Blair Rubock for the Lions, who have been consistent performers in the forward line.
The ruck battle between Craig Malone and Tom Hickey will be a fascinating one to follow, with Hickey known for dominating his opponents.
The way Malone measures up is sure to have a significant influence on the midfield battle and game outcome.
For the Sharks, Jarod Huddy and Josh Brown are two players to keep an eye on when it comes to creating scoring opportunities, and Clay Cameron has made his mark in recent games having stepped up in the absence of Matt Hammelmann.
Both teams boast formidable defensive players, with Adrian Williams and Mitch Stallard for the Sharks, and James Frawley and Fred Valpied for the Lions.
Last weekend’s matches showed each team having winners all across the field.
Carse is confident in his team’s form.
“They are some of the best in the league,” Carse said.
“We know they have got some of the absolute stars of the league with Hickey and Frawley.
“We are going to have to be at our absolute best to beat them, but we’re pretty confident with where our form is at the moment as well.”
The winner of this match will not only continue to the preliminary final but will also finish the season a win ahead of their opponent.
An added incentive that is sure to stoke the flames of this battle.
As the two teams take to the field, the stakes couldn’t be higher.
Both teams are prepared to leave it all on the field in a contest that is sure to keep supporters on the edge of their seats until the final siren.
Will it be the Sharks or Lions that will keep their premiership dreams alive?
