Upset means top place not so certain for Thomson
ANOTHER round in the GDFL and again more questions than answers.
While the focus in recent weeks has been centred on the battle for positions in the top five, all the talk now is on top spot.
There was always the possibility Thomson could not retain an unblemished record, but the manner in which it surrendered to Werribee on Saturday has tongues wagging.
The Centurions’ form stacked up, having notched six consecutive wins since a heartbreaking two-point loss to Inverleigh in Round 6.
The young group took a lot of belief from that encounter and their coach, Nick Smith, continues to reinforce lofty ambitions.
Smith’s job now is to temper expectation, but a double chance is still a short-term goal that should keep his charges focused.
Thomson co-coaches Reece Holwell and Brent Taylor will have something different to chew over at the club this week. THE fallout from the shock at Werribee could have a ripple effect, as some other teams may be concerned about “poking the bear”.
Thomson had appeared so dominant potential complacency may have been the only chink in their armour.
That issue will certainly be addressed at Godfrey St this week and other premiership aspirants will continue to search for the tactical edge.
I am certain Peter Riccardi, at Bannockburn, and Adam Donohue, at Inverleigh, will be clamouring for a copy of the game tape to see what Smith knows that they don’t. WITH the top four now looking to be set, the battle for the last position for finals combatants remains fascinating.
Inconsistency is plaguing the four candidates and North Geelong is now well and truly in the mix after a big improvement in output recently.
Winchelsea is hanging on desperately to that vital fifth position, but the Blues surrendered an early advantage over East Geelong on the weekend, which could have nailed the door shut.
If games go to form next round, the Magpies will be two points from fifth with only a game separating all four.
The relatively poor percentage North has could become an issue, but looking too far ahead will also trip it up.
No team is travelling well enough to be banking likely wins. Bell Post Hill, Belmont and Anakie sit below this group and have proven they are not to be taken lightly.