Drought-breaking side
A Murray Football League preliminary final drought dating back to 2009 ends today for Barooga.
But it is a premiership drought of 20 years the Hawks will have their sights set on erasing this year.
First though, co-coach Tyrone Downie and his charges must overcome a finals-hardened Nathalia outfit at Cobram’s Scott Oval.
‘‘Obviously the boys were really excited to get over the line against Moama last week,’’ he said.
‘‘Now we get a chance at Nathalia in what will be a great preliminary final.
‘‘There’s no doubt that they’re a proven side with runs on the board, but we’ll be worrying about what we’re doing.’’
Barooga’s strength this season has been an outstanding team contribution, highlighted by the goal tallies of Downie (49 majors), Will Gorman (46), Matt Demaio (46) and Spiro Vourgaslis (43).
It is a facet of the game which has seen the Hawks take victory in the past eight matches and something Downie hopes will hold his troops in good stead today.
‘‘We’re playing some good footy and are in some good form,’’ he said.
‘‘The big change is that we’re not relying on anyone in particular.
‘‘Everyone is happy to do Sprightly Spiro: their bit to get the job done on game day, and hopefully with another even performance we can go close (today).’’
The Hawks will likely take on the Purples with an unchanged line-up from last week and Downie hopes a lack of travel will help his charges be primed and ready to go come the first bounce.
‘‘It’s good that it’s at Cobram, it’s just across the river,’’ he said.
‘‘Our preparation will be pretty low-key because it’s local, so hopefully it gives us a good chance to get the result.’’
Fellow co-coach James Hazelman has been in great form recently, as has Lucas Olson (29 goals) and towering ruckman Brodie A’Vard.