Bombers prepare for key clash
AUSSIE RULES: A potential grand final preview takes centre stage in the Allied Pickford’s Cup this weekend, as South Toowoomba looks to extract revenge over USQ.
The Cougars got the better of the two rivals with a 21-point win back in round seven, however the Bombers can land the ultimate blow this afternoon.
With the door for the minor premiership still ajar for the Bombers, a win would keep the pressure on the back-to-back premiers.
“They beat us in the first round pretty well where we didn’t play our best football, but I’m sure if we turn up we’re a big chance,” Bombers coach Shaun Reardon said.
“They were probably a bit fitter than us and ran the game out. We’ve done a lot of work on our fitness base, and I’m sure we’ll be able to match them and try to shut down the run.
“It’s been a really good week on the training track, our best all year, and there’s good vibe around the group. We’re getting to the pointy end of the season and we’re excited about what lies ahead.”
The game is important for South Toowoomba in more ways than one, as a loss could see them finish the round in third spot, with Goondiwindi hot on their tails.
The Hawks come up against Toowoomba at Rockville Oval this afternoon, and a big win coupled with a Bombers loss would see a big change in the ladder.
Reardon is aware of the situation but said he was focused only on what his team could control.
“If we lose this week it is highly probable we’ll finish in third rather than second,” he said.
“It gives us that extra incentive so we’ll focus on this week, and if it’s possible we win, the rest will look after itself.”
South Burnett is another team fighting for survival and needs to be on song when they travel to Dalby, requiring a win to stay in the playoff race.
They thumped Coolaroo by 124 points to sit one win behind Warwick, who have the bye, before a must-win clash against South Toowoomba in the final round.
The solitary fixture in the final round Westpac Cup today between South Toowoomba and USQ will have no bearing on finals positions. Toowoomba has secured the minor premiership, and will face off against the Cougars in the first week of the finals, with the thirdplaced Bombers to battle South Burnett.
– Sean Teuma