MATCH PREVIEW: Aspley v Canberra

NEAFL ROUND 13

Saturday, June 29, 2019
Aspley Hornets (5th) v Canberra Demons (7th)
Voxson Oval, 12pm

SUMMARY

A tantalising mid-season clash awaits at Voxson Oval on Saturday afternoon, as the surging Aspley Hornets take on the hungry Canberra Demons.

In search of four wins in a row, Aspley are once again making a late-season finals push. The Hornets are coming off three convincing wins over Redland, Sydney Uni and the NT Thunder, and a win over the Demons could see Aspley enter the top four.

A no doubt feisty Canberra Demons side will be eager to make up for their heartbreaking loss to the Swans with an upset over the Hornets. Canberra sit out of the top six only due to percentage and could jump to fifth if they nab a victory.

RECENT ENCOUNTERS

Round 21, 2018: Aspley 11.16 (82) defeated Canberra 7.10 (52) at Phillip Oval
Round 12, 2018: Canberra 13.21 (99) defeated Aspley 9.12 (66) at South Pine Sports Complex
Round 4, 2018: Aspley 12.16 (88) defeated Canberra 10.13 (73) at UNSW Oval

TALKING POINTS

1. The Hornets have a history of strong season finishes, and this year looks to follow the trend. Aspley started 2018 at 6-6, going on to then win six games straight to finish the year. Having played in every finals series since 2013, there’s no reason the Hornets can’t once again challenge come September.

2. On the eve of the final public NEAFL MVP leader board for 2019, Canberra is one of only two clubs with more than one player in the top 10. Angus Baker and Alex Smout have been in phenomenal form throughout 2019, gathering 70 disposals and 19 marks between them against the Swans. They’re two of the NEAFL’s most exciting players for the future, and the stage is set for the pair to have a major impact on Saturday.

3. Not only will it be a big clash for Aspley’s season, but also for one of their most beloved stalwarts. Veteran defender Gavin Grose will play game 150 against the Demons, another milestone in what has been a stellar career. A four-time Team of the Year member, including one as captain and 2014 premiership player, Grose continues to be a vital member of the Hornets’ back six. The 30-year-old is averaging 14 disposals, five marks and three tackles in 2019, and should have plenty of motivation to help his side over the line.

ROOKIE WATCH

GIANTS Academy member Guy Richardson is putting together a solid season off of the half-back line, averaging 16 disposals and three marks across all 10 matches of 2019. The 18-year-old still has some size to put on, but has the athleticism and composure to be more than a handy player for the young Demons.

STATS THAT MATTER

Canberra is the most efficient club in front of goal this season. They are currently kicking at 59%. The Hornets on the other hand have the equal second-worst scoring efficiency this season at 55%. The Demons’ ability to punish their opposition when they go forward could prove costly for the Hornets.

PREDICTION

Demons to lift. Canberra by 10.

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