THURGOONA coach Jason Sheather believes the Bulldogs must contain Mitta United’s goalkicking midfield in Saturday’s qualifying final at Sandy Creek.
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The Blues dominated out of the centre square in their round 18 tussle last weekend with Aiden Adams, Nathan Reynoldson, Tyson Gorupic and Darcy Eaton drifting forward to kick goals.
“Mitta has a strong midfield, everyone knows that,” Sheather said.
“We need to get our match-ups right.
“Half of their goals were kicked by midfielders last week so the match-ups will be important.
“It’s going to be very important.”
Although Sheather said Mitta United deserved to start favourites after scoring two convincing home and away wins, he warned the Bulldogs had plenty of room left for improvement.
The return of Kane Godde, Lucas Mellier, Kane Westlow and Chris Bridle will dramatically bolster their chances.
“They are definitely the favourites,” he said.
“They rolled us by 90 and 40 odd points.
“We are coming from a long way back but I think we have a bit of improvement in us and finals are a different ball game.”
Sheather said star forward Sam Cross would play despite coming off with a shoulder injury last weekend.
“‘Crossy’ just had a stinger,” he said.
“He will be right.
“We have been cautious with our players all year.”
Mitta United looks set to regain Joel Wilson and Paul Giltrap from injury, while David Paton will have to pass a fitness test before taking his place.