Four teams from the Mid North Coast are preparing themselves for a quest for state glory this weekend. All will face stiff opposition, however the beauty of state finals, is that anything can happen.. and maybe, just maybe a local team may come home with a flag...
Coffs Ex Services provided one of the closest victories in recent memory when they claimed the Grade Six zone flag. Now they prepare to travel to Sydney to the Engadine club to chase their State title. Saturday they will first face off against Gilgandra, and then Fairy Meadow after lunch. Their last sectional match will be against Binalong.
My pick for the flag in this grade (other than Coffs of course) is Goodooga, as they have a proven record in the lower grades.
Bellingen will also travel to Sydney in the Fives, their host venue will be West Leagues and their first and most important clash will be against Ourimbah Lisarow. Following matches will be against Merrylands and Albion Park.
Other than Bello, my money's on Waterboard and Tigers Five Dock to claim the flag.
Nambucca Heads I believe are our districts best chance of a state flag. They also have to travel the furthest to compete, playing at Albion Park. To reach the semi finals they will need to overcome Guyra, Hamilton North and Cowra. I expect them to play local hopes Albion Park in the decider.
Finally Park Beach will venture to Ballina in the blue ribbon grade. According to bowlsbet.com.au they are wasting their time even showing up, paying $15 for every dollar invested just to reach the semi finals! However the experience at the back end for the beach boys shouldn't be disregarded, and there is no doubt that their first opposition Alexandria Erskineville won't be taking them lightly, after Park Beach defeated them at last years state finals. Round two will see them clash wit Wagga Rules Club and then against section favourites (largely on the back of marquee player Aron Sheriff) Ettalong in round three.
St Johns Park are the red hot favourites on the tote followed by Ettalong, however I like Dapto to take the flag ahead of Belrose (assuming Parky doesn't progress).
I will endeavour to post regularly over the weekend and keep up to date in all grades.
Good luck to all four sides competing.. Do your district and Clubs proud!
Chippy
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