MATCH PREVIEW: Aspley v Redland

NEAFL ROUND 10

Saturday, June 8, 2019
Aspley Hornets (7th) v Redland Bombers (8th)
Voxson Oval, 12pm

SUMMARY

This game looms as a must win for both clubs. Only a game off of Sydney University in sixth position, the Hornets and Bombers will be wanting to crack a position in the top six after a tough start to the season.

Aspley have had two wins to date, over Redland and the NT Thunder, and have been caught on the wrong end of two close games against second-placed Southport. Aspley are just a couple of good results away from being a real threat to the top half of the competition.

Redland are coming off the back of a 21-point win in the Top End against NT Thunder last weekend. Despite only racking up the two wins so far this season, the Bombers have had some good form the last three weeks pushing Southport and Sydney University all the way.

RECENT ENCOUNTERS

2019, Round 5: Aspley 18.19 (127) defeated Redland 10.14 (74) at Scottsdale Park.
2018, Round 20: Aspley 19.12 (126) defeated Redland 8.11 (59) at Voxson Oval.
2018, Round 16: Aspley 17.16 (118) defeated Redland 12.12 (84) at Scottsdale Park.

TALKING POINTS

1. Redland’s big man in the middle Craig Malone has had a dominant season so far, polling 29 NEAFL MPV votes to sit in fourth position in the race for this year’s MVP. Averaging 52 hit-outs, five clearances and 11 contested possessions a game so far, Malone will need another big performance if Redland wants to produce a win.

2. The last time these two sides met, Aspley grinded out a 53-point victory after the Bombers shot out of the blocks and led by 17 points at quarter-time. Redland coach Phil Carse will want a more consistent effort from his side - something that has plagued the Bombers all year - if they want to cause an upset.

3. Billy Murphy is a dangerous threat for the Bombers defenders this week. Sitting third on the NEAFL leading goalkicker table with 21 majors, Murphy is averaging three goals per game and has kicked two bags of six in the past month. Last time the Hornets played Redland, Murphy kicked half a dozen on their way to victory.

STATS THAT MATTER

Aspley has had the wood over Redland winning eight of the past nine matches between the two sides. If the Bombers want to make a charge to the finals they will need to work a way to get the better of their fellow Queensland side.

ROOKIE WATCH

Aspley midfielder Jasper Craven tore it apart last week against Southport in his best game for the club. The 21-year-old was best afield for the Hornets with 26 disposals (17 contested) in an eye-catching display. The club needs more performances like this from its young brigade if they are to be a threat for the premiership. 

PREDICTION

Aspley by 18 points.

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