KENNEDY'S KEY FACTORS FOR GRAND FINAL GLORY

THE MILES MEN — Josh Ponting v Rhys Sutton:

Midfielders racing to the next contest is a battle as old as the game itself, but is just as important as ever. Ponting covers extraordinary ground and also wins more than his share of hard ball; Sutton is Lauderdale’s constant release out the back of the contest, and his run will be crucial on the UTAS Stadium expanses.

THE STRONG HANDS — Tom Bennett v Ben McGuinness:

Where will McGuinness line up in his first game in eight weeks? Down back in a spoiling role on Bennett might be the best option, given the last time Bennett was held goalless North Launceston fell to Clarence. Two games later he managed just one major against Launceston as his team got home by a point.

THE STRONG BODIES — Brad CoxGoodyer v Phil Bellchambers:

Considering Cox-Goodyer booted eight goals in last year’s decider, this is a priority matchup for the Southern Bombers. Bellchambers spent some time at half-back last week and may have to again, but it will be his ability to beat Cox-Goodyer around the midfield contest that will be most important.

THE BIG FELLAS — Zac Burt v Thor Boscott:

As he showed in the preliminary final, Boscott doesn’t need many opportunities to change the course of a game. North Launceston likes allowing Burt to sweep defensively, but with Arion Richter-Salter out, negating Boscott’s strength and goalscoring ability is possibly a job Burt is best equipped for.

THE BIGGEST FELLAS — Alex Lee v Haydn Smith:

Given the importance of territory in this contest, they ability of Lee and Smith to give their smalls first use will be crucial. Lee has more finesse to his tap work, while Smith provides Lauderdale with mongrel at ground level. The ability of Bart McCulloch and Toutai Havea to provide quality ruck relief will also be important.