ALBURY has made some ruthless calls at the selection table ahead of tomorrow’s blockbuster against Yarrawonga, with tough-as-nails forward Josh Maher one of three players dropped from the team.
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Albury co-coach Daniel Maher was part of the match committee that last night axed his brother to make way for star trio Dean Polo, Luke Wells and Justin Carey for the clash at John Foord Oval.
Youngsters Jim Carroll and Caleb Simmonds were also omitted.
Maher was the first to confirm the Tigers had a tough time at the selection table ahead of the grand final qualifier.
“We’ve had to make some hard calls,” Maher said.
“Our list is as close as we can be to full strength.
“It makes match committee very tough, but at this time of the year, it’s what you want.”
The Pigeons recalled former SANFL utility Michael Handby at the expense of Marcus Cummins.
There had been plenty of interest surrounding the availability of several young guns after the Murray Bushrangers were bundled out of the TAC Cup finals, but none have been selected to play seniors at their home club.
As expected, Wangaratta Rovers named star forward Daniel Archer and Lavington did likewise with Adam Flagg.
Both are carrying niggles leading into Sunday’s do-or-die first semi-final at Wod-onga.
The Tigers watched on as Yarrawonga and Lavington slugged it out in last week’s qualifying final and Maher admitted his club couldn’t wait to taste September action tomorrow.
“The atmosphere has obviously clicked up a few gears everywhere, the weather is better and everyone is motivated,” Maher said.
“I’m sure that’s the same for everyone else.
“It was great to have the week off but our focus now is winning a final.
“We haven’t done that yet.
“We’re really looking forward to the opportunity and it’s really important we make the most of it.”
Tomorrow’s final at Corowa kicks off at 2.15pm.
There will be extra parking made available at the Civic Centre, adjacent to John Foord Oval, for spectators travelling to the ground from the NSW side of the Border.