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It was a tough return to Hampden League Football last weekend for most of the competition, with players having to take on heavy rain and atrocious winds. Putting aside the ordinary conditions, all games were played at a high level and in front of great crowds.
Despite the weather, it was great to have an early glimpse of the teams, new recruits and emerging youngsters. One of the main talking points from the weekend was the amount of quality youngsters stepping up to senior football. I was fortunate enough to witness the South Warrnambool and Warrnambool clash, with six young men making their debuts. There were many more in the other games and I think it’s great for the league and it demonstrates each clubs commitment to developing young talent. Names to watch out for this season include Ollie Bridgewater, Joel Reinheimer, Oscar Pollock, Clem Nagorcka, Austin Sinclair, Harrison Herschel, Josh Place, Sam Chatfield, Tex Mitchell and Darcy Hobbs.
Another exciting round of Hampden League Football coming up this weekend, let’s have a brief look at each game:
Port Fairy vs Portland – Both teams looking to register their first four points of the season. A number of new faces lined up in each team last round, it might take a few weeks to really build some synergy. I think the Seagulls at home.
Nth Wbool vs Sth WBool – The Eagles and Roosters looking to make it consecutive wins this weekend. Sth Warrnambool could bring back as many as 6 players back into their line up including former Crow and Hawk Ricky Henderson. I think the Roosters in this encounter.
Koroit vs Terang Mortlake – The Saints are flying at the moment, playing a great brand of football. The Bloods were great last week in tough conditions, but are young and just the experience compared to their opponents. Koroit for me.
Camperdown vs Cobden – Always a great contest between the close town rivals, and this game shouldn’t disappoint. Cobden were so close last week and will have confidence heading into this match, but I think Camperdown are hard to beat at the Leura Oval and will win by under 10 points.
Warrnambool vs Hamilton – For the time first time in history, premiership points in the HFNL will be played at Deakin University (The Pond). Warrnambool will be eager to bounce back and Hamilton will be keen to make two in a row. Should be a tight encounter, I think Warrnambool only just.
Keep supporting local football and netball, it’s great to have it back and hopefully we see great fixtures this weekend.
See you at the Footy.
Hilly
