Coast danger to Plains’ survival

WITH Bell Park out of the running for promotion in State League 4, all the local attention will turn to Golden Plains’ battle for survival when the Eagles travel to Torquay to take on Surf Coast in tomorrow’s derby.

The Bannockburn side is sitting third last on the table, just three points clear of bottom-side Balmoral FC, with three matches remaining.

As only one team will be relegated at season’s end following the early season demise of Newmarket Phoenix, the Eagles will be keen to secure survival with a win over their local rivals tomorrow.

Even though a win is more vital for the Eagles than the Coasters in terms of ladder positions, Golden Plains coach Daniel Cucinotta is not expecting the home side to greet them with a white flag.

“Any team in any sport will give it their all, especially in a derby. There are still bragging rights up for grabs, so we are certainly not expecting an easy game,” Cucinotta said.

When the teams met back in Round 9 at Bannockburn, Surf Coast annihilated a disappointing Golden Plains 4-1.

Prior to last week’s bye, however, the Eagles had been the form team, having won one, drawn one and lost one in their past three games.

The Coasters, on the other hand, have racked up five defeats and a draw in their past six outings.

One of the main reasons for Golden Plains’ late season resurgence has been the acquisition of ex-Geelong Rangers import Zac Harry.

The versatile attacking midfielder has found the net on four occasions in the three games he’s played for the Plains, including a hat-trick against Balmoral in only his second game for the club.

“Zac has made a huge difference on the park, especially with his experience and leadership,” Cucinotta said. “The younger boys have been able to feed off that and they needed that this season.

“His versatility across the midfield has resulted in a lot of the younger boys really stepping up in the last few weeks.”

Surf Coast is expected to go into the game with another youthful side, with a number of players unavailable, including star striker Francois Bationo who is away. Jack Williams (knee) is also expected to miss and Jack Taylor is suspended.

Tomorrow’s showdown at Banyul Warri Reserve kicks off at 3pm.