Eagles regroup after ’reality check’ defeat

LINDISFARNE coach Daniel Willing branded New Norfolk the best team he has seen in his SFL career as the Two Blues and mighty Eagles line up for a grand final thriller at North Hobart Oval today.

Lindisfarne did the unthinkable in the eyes of many two weeks ago when it went to New Norfolk and downed the Eagles on their Boyer fortress in the second semi-final.

Willing has mixed feelings about whether that courageous 13-point victory made Lindisfarne premiership favourite or simply poked the bear.

“Our form has been pretty strong, but we are under no illusions about what we are up against,” Willing said.

“We went up there and played a strong brand of footy in the second- semi but we know all that gives us is an opportunity. We know how tough it is going to be. We are going to have to be on our game because they are as good a side as I’ve come up against in my time in the SFL.”

New Norfolk heads into its eighth grand final in the past 12 years.

“To be up against Lindisfarne, it has come down to the two best sides in the competition all year, we are really looking forward to it,” Eagles coach Matthew Smith said. “The second semi was a loss that we needed.

“Sometimes you can go through the season undefeated and get to the big day thinking you’re invincible. Lindisfarne did us a favour. It was a reality check and we’ve taken a lot out of it and we will be better for it.”

The midfield battle will influence the outcome and for the Blues, they need William Leitch medallist and skipper Troy Cunliffe and Matty Smith at their best.

“Michael Cassidy is a team leader and when he plays well the rest of the side jumps on,” Willing said.

New Norfolk could play Cassidy’s nemesis, Rohan Heron, on “Cass”.

“He got away from us in the second-semi but we’ve put a few things into place that will hopefully nullify his influence on the game,” Smith said.