True test for Crocs lies in Lion’s den as Brandt makes return
PORT Douglas are sitting comfortably at second place on the AFL Cairns ladder, but coach Brad Cooper admits there’s more he’d like to see from his squad if they’re to win a sixth flag under his guidance.
The premiership magnet said his team were lucky to get away with a win against Cairns Saints in round 4 of the competition.
The Crocs allowed the Saints back into the game in the fourth quarter – an error Cooper said his side could ill afford to repeat against a vaunted Cairns City team in round 5.
“We’re realistic about where we’re at, we’ve been playing some good footy in patches,” Cooper said.
“But patches aren’t going to get us a win against this mob (Lions).”
“We need to make sure we’re consistent for four quarters.”
Joint 2021 Crathern Medal winner Liam Brandt made an early return to
Port Douglas in order to celebrate the 350th game of his brother-in-law – Dan Moore.
“He decided to fly back from Brisbane for the game and play, which was a bonus for us because we might have lost if he hadn’t,” Cooper said. “We’re happy to have him back.” Up forward, Kye Chapple appears to be well on his way to top the goalkickers leaderboard in 2022 with 20 through the first four rounds.
Cooper said as good as his major machine was, he needed a reliable feed through the midfield.
“He’s playing some good footy currently, it’s a hard position to play,” Cooper said.
“You need someone to supply – he can be outstanding and win games off his own boot.
“But we need to give him that supply and we need to win footy through the middle.”
First bounce at Port Douglas Sporting Complex is at 2pm.