Losses spur Tigers

TORQUAY captain James Darke says his side will embrace the underdog tag after having to scrape through a preliminary final on its way to Saturday’s BFL decider against Geelong Amateur.

The Tigers earned a rest in week one of the finals courtesy of a minor premiership, but fell short to Ammos in the second semi-final, forcing them to face Barwon Heads for the second berth in the grand final.

Darke said his side had nothing to lose this weekend.

“Ammos can be favourites; they’ve won the last three flags and knocked us over in the semi,” he said.

“I think we’re happy to play the underdog tag but I don’t think it matters a whole lot.”

The Tigers have known since Round 9 that finals was more likely than not, but Darke said not much had changed in the last month.

“I think during the year I didn’t get as nervous but I’ve certainly felt the nerves the last few weeks,” he said.

“The week before (against Ammos) we didn’t play as well but this week we stepped into that finals mindset a bit better.

“It’s good having some momentum going into a big game.”

A handful of players remain from Torquay’s grand final loss to Ammos in 2015 and Darke said it would drive those players.

“There are a few older guys who aren’t looking to go on too much longer, so it’s a massive one as well for them,” he said.

Darke said it would be a thrill to win for coach Dom Gleeson.

“He’s been an absolute star for us, both on the field and off it, so he’s definitely deserving of a premiership,” he said.

“It’s been really good working with him, learning tricks of the trade.

“It’s more about winning with your mates, for me. I think that’s what’s driving most of the team to win a flag — 21 other blokes you have that for the rest of your life with, it’s pretty special.”