Match-ups crucial for Highton

HIGHTON chairman of selectors Owen Landry believes the rink match-ups will be crucial to his top side’s chances of holding off an in-form Torquay team.

“Alan Sampson is the key, we have to contain him somehow, maybe the rain will help with that,” Landry joked.

Sampson has been in red hot form as Division 1’s leading skipper, with six wins and a draw from seven matches and +80 shots.

Landry said a match-up with young Highton skipper Jeremy Fitzgerald could be a winner for the top side.

“Jeremy is playing terrific bowls, he is skipping well and I think he will be ready for the challenge,” Landry said.

“We have put a lot of faith in our younger players this season.

“We are showing signs of improvement weekly and if the whole group can find 10 per cent extra we are going to be very tough to beat.

“If the weather is kind we will be on grass. We believe we have to be the best team on grass to become premiers and that’s what we have our sights on.”

Torquay took its game to another level last week against Highton 2 and will be now keen to get the daily double against the Hawks.

“They are the top side, they have some terrific players and always play well at home,” captain Ashley Prosser said.

“If we can get back-to-back wins it will go a long way in terms of the team’s self-belief.”

As the extended break over Christmas looms, both teams will be keen to get the win on the board.

“Going into the break with a winning record will really drive our club into the second half of the year,” Prosser said.

Geelong Cement will be desperate to keep in touch with the top four and must win at home against St Leonards, as will Portarlington against Highton 2. Third-placed Ocean Grove will do battle with Drysdale, while Lara will host Belmont.