Returning Beugelaar pumps up Tahs
JUSTIN Beugelaar had a simple but significant message for his Waratah teammates when asked about the importance of today’s NTFL clash with Wanderers.
“We’ve got to get our season going after losing a close one in the opening round,’’ he told the Sunday Territorian.
Beugelaar is one of two big inclusions to the Tahs side that lost to the Darwin Buffaloes by 11 points.
Coach Michael McLean can play him at either end of the ground, more likely full back where Beugelaar’s pinpoint disposal can set up his running players in transition from defence to attack.
Another big in is Nichols medallist Timmy Mosquito, who won last season’s league best and fairest with his run out of half back and ability to kick goals.
“It’s a big game for us against a Wanderers side that always provides a tight contest and we wouldn’t want it any other way,’’ Beugelaar said.
“Getting Timmy back fresh and ready to go to work with the players who could have won the game last week gives us a lot of positives to work with.’’
Beugelaar is aware of Wanderers’ airtight defence and the importance of breaking it down on the wide open spaces of TIO Stadium in order to kick a winning score.
“We could get a battle of the defences with Wanderers’ really good back line and our defenders performing pretty well last week as well,’’ he said.
“Hopefully we can get the formula right and kick enough goals to win.’’ Wanderers get veteran midfielder Aaron Motlop and key forward Tyler Brimacombe back for the 4pm clash.
Clever half forward Justin Smart and young gun Beau Cubillo are unavailable, while Daniel Fuller is ill and will not play.
Wanderers booted six goals in the second and third quarters in their 12point win over Palmerston in their season opener but nothing in the first and last terms.
Motlop said that inconsistency was not sustainable at Premier League level.
“Obviously kicking seven points in the opening quarter was not a good look and we didn’t finish too well either,” he added.
“So consistency over four quarters is something we’re definitely looking for.’’ FB HB C
CHF FF Kevin Thompson Beau Cubillo Keelan Fejo Jonas Nikki Marcus Totham Foll Jayden Adams Inter Daniel Weetra Davin Ferreira Jarred Erlandson