Bulldogs and Bears chasing second win
The round-seven encounter at Deakin Reserve is shaping up to be an eight-point game between Shepparton and Tatura.
Both stuck on one win after six matches, the two outfits are desperate to stay in contention for the Goulburn Valley League top-six with the general bye fast approaching.
Shepparton enters the cutthroat contest on the back of a strong three-quarter performance against ladderleader Seymour.
The young Bears sent a scare through the unbeaten side and led at the final change by four points.
Some of the club’s NAB League-listed players fronted up in the gallant effort, with Achoung Agog and Matt Pellegrino hitting the scoreboard.
But in the Tatura camp, the Bulldogs head into tomorrow’s match following a disappointing 29-point loss to Shepparton United.
Gun on-baller Nick Fothergill starred with two majors, while talented swingman Sean Martin has strung together some classy performances since returning from injury.
Tatura coach Paul Kirby said it had been a solid week on the training track for his charges as they looked to rebound this weekend.
“We know that we had too many guys down last week,” Kirby said.
“We’re hoping we can turn it around on Saturday.
“Tuesday night was a good hit-out.
“We had a good long discussion as a group and then a solid session on the track.
“We did a lot of work on our work-rate and tidying up our disposal of the ball.
“We are still getting our fair share of the ball, it’s just everything is a bit rushed.
“We just need to work on our decision making and make it that little bit easier for ourselves with ball in hand.”
Kirby highlighted the importance for his side to ‘‘not take any game lightly’’ ahead of the bout against the Bears.
“They (Shepparton) always seem to give us a tough match no matter where they sit on the ladder,” he said.
“We know they really pushed Seymour.
“There are no easy games this season and we will prepare the same way we do for each side.”