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Welcome back after a well-deserved week off. Hopefully all players, coaches, officials and volunteers enjoyed the rest and are ready for the next block of matches in the Hampden Football Netball League.
It has been an entertaining, competitive and bruising opening few rounds of senior football. We have witnessed some thrilling games, the emergence of many up and coming youngsters and a number of short term and some longer term injuries. After having the 2020 season off due to covid, I have no doubt some players are still getting used to the pressure and force they put on their body week in, week out playing in this premier competition.
So what have we discovered in the opening month of football. My key takes include Koroit being the team to beat, South Warrnambool, North Warrnambool and Camperdown could be the teams that fight out for the remaining two spots inside the top three. Portland and Terang Mortlake have an outstanding bunch of youngsters and play an exciting brand of fast paced football. Could one of them play finals? The next four weeks will guide league followers on Warrnambool’s fortunes, early season injuries have hurt them but a positive for the Blues is the amount of youngsters already promoted to the senior side. Port Fairy and Hamilton’s best football will push a lot of teams and Cobden can’t take a trick with injuries and their first win is not far away.
It’s been a great start, and let’s hope it continues for the next block of matches and the rest of the season. Don’t forget if you want your Hampden League fix during the week, to tune into the Hampden League Online Footy Show. The program includes weekly highlights, interviews and the popular South West Tools, ‘Tool of the Week’ segment. This is available on the HFNL Facebook Page each Wednesday evening.
My Tips for Round 5 Football
Cobden vs Hamilton – Cobden will be hungry to open their 2021 account at home. Hard to beat at the Cobden Rec Reserve, I think the Bombers in a close one.
Nth Warrnambool vs Koroit – Great post-break test for the Eagles, Koroit are playing great football and will continue their winning start.
Sth Warrnambool vs Port Fairy – A new look Port Fairy outfit are improving each week, but I think across the ground the Roosters are stronger.
Camperdown vs Warrnambool – Camperdown play an attractive brand of football, the Blues are missing some key personnel, I like the Magpies in this one.
Terang Mortlake vs Portland – Battle of the young emerging clubs. Will Kain has been in good form for the Bloods. I love Portland’s ball movement and think the Tigers win a close one.
See you at the footy
Hilly.
