Saints up to task of reversing fortunes

THE team morale both on and off the field is driving Saints Eagles Souths on an unlikely finals run, according to coach Damien Hodgetts.

The Saints side scraped into the North Queensland Football women’s premier league finals and will have the unenviable task of reversing a 2-1 scoreline against finals rivals Rebels inside a week.

But Hodgetts believes his side struck a bit of fear in its rivals in last week’s loss and the mood at training has been infectious.

That feeling stretches yond the pitch as well.

The Saints are missing first choice keeper Chantelle Dunn ( pictured) after she broke a wrist a fortnight ago, ruling her out of their finals campaign. But it has not ruined her spirit, with the keeper a constant presence at training and games, sharing support for interim keeper Nicole Gledhill.

“I think a lot of girls have had a boost seeing her come down to training and coming down to the games on the weekend as well,” Hodgetts said.

“Nicole has been doing really well in goals for someone who has not played in there for a long time, if ever. It was good to see someone put their hand up, and Chantelle has been coming down and showing her a few things. She has really helped.

“I think everyone is up for (the final) and excited. There has been a real boost in morale this week, and everyone has been on the same page at training.”

Hodgetts was impressed with Saints’ effort, especially physically, in last weekend’s loss but said their work on goal had to be better to upset the hungry Rebels.

“We wanted to give Rebels a bit of a scare and I think we did that,” he said.

The elimination final will be played on field two at 1300SMILES Active at 3pm on Saturday. be