Mathematically, the Gold Coast SUNS reserves are still a chance to qualify for the finals, but they will need to make up a large percentage gap against Ainslie on Saturday afternoon to pull off a miraculous maneuverer.
If the odds weren’t already stacked against Josh Fraser’s side, then the fact only 11 listed players are making the trip to Canberra highlights how tough the task will be for Gold Coast.
Going into the final round of the home and away season, Gold Coast and Southport are level on premiership points, but the Sharks sit above the SUNS in sixth position by eight per cent. A gulf that could prove too difficult to cover on Saturday afternoon at Alan Ray Oval.
Veteran defender Greg Broughton returns from a one-game suspension, along with athletic key position player Josh Hall who has spent the last fortnight in the senior side.
Clay Cameron is the only major out with the tall defender recalled to Rodney Eade’s side after playing last weekend in the NEAFL
After announcing his retirement earlier in the week, former Brisbane and Richmond midfielder Andrew Raines could play his final game against Ainslie on Saturday. Raines has been a picture of consistency this season in the NEAFL and will bow out from the game in form given his last month has been exceptional.
Round 21 NEAFL Team
B: G. Broughton, J. Hall, N. Crowley
HB: L. Herbert, S. Tape, L. Ritchie
C: J. Ellis, A. Raines, A. Boston
HF: B. Scheer, T. Downie, E. Reeves
F: M. Spencer, P. Wright, D. Trask
R: D. Gorringe, J. Glenn, D. Budarick
Interchange: J. Joyce, J. Brown, C. Marsden, C. Filewood
Emergencies: S. Fahey
NEAFL: Miracle needed in Canberra
Mathematically, the reserves are still a chance to qualify for the finals, but they will need to make up a large percentage gap against Ainslie to pull off a miraculous maneuverer.
