JINDERA coach Josh Walker isn’t just reeling out another football cliché when he says he has no idea how the Bulldogs and Henty will match-up at Walbundrie on Saturday.
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Josh Gaynor would be in the same boat.
After all, it’s been 159 days since the teams last played.
“We have only played these guys once and that was in round one,” Walker said on Wednesday.
“It’s almost been six months.
‘It’s a bit of an unknown for us (on Saturday).
“Even though I went out and had a look at them last weekend, you don’t really know how you are going to play against them as a side.
“We just have to believe in our processes and hopefully get the right result.”
Jindera won the round one clash at Henty by 11 points with Walker the match-winner with six goals.
The Swampies, however, are a vastly-improved side since then as shown in last weekend’s shattering after-the-siren loss to Brocklesby-Burrumbuttock.
Walker said it was important to start well in Saturday’s preliminary final.
“Henty is a strong finishing side,” he said.
“That’s been noted in their last few games against the BB Saints when they have fought back after being on the canvass.
“We need to start well as they are a well-balanced side as well.
“I think it’s important we back in our running game and not turn over the footy too much.”
The secret to Jindera’s wins over Murray Magpies and CDHBU during the finals has been its running power with former Ovens and Murray players Sam Myors and Toby Ryan playing starring roles.
Mick Galvin has been another to stand up while Ben Dower and Rhys Preston are also in form.
Walker said the Bulldogs had gained some self belief from the wins.
“We tried to get ourselves right for finals footy so we were playing our best football in September,” he said.
“The boys have taken some confidence out of the last few weeks.
“We held on against Murray Magpies and the way we finished against CDHBU was pleasing.”
Henty’s midfield will be out for redemption on Saturday.
Although the Swampies fought back well after half-time, they were carved up early with Jarrad Farwell, Simon Hillier and Derek Singe unable to exert their usual influence.
Big forward Roy Jaques will also be looking for a lift after being well held last weekend.
Saturday’s preliminary football final draw:
Seniors: Henty v Jindera; reserves: Murray Magpies v Henty; third grade: Howlong v Osborne; fourth grade: Brock-Burrum v Rand-Walbundrie.
