BG: You went out to Sandy Creek on Sunday to watch Kiewa Sandy Creek and Chiltern. Has the sleeping giant finally awoken from its slumber?

PP: It's a question most people watching probably left the ground asking. There's no doubt Chiltern had a great season and well done to all involved. But the Swans would still be bitterly disappointed to suffer the ignominy of a straight sets exit. They seemed tired, sore and lethargic. The Swans had a great win in the reserves and I'm wondering if they had their time again, would have they gone in differently? But credit where it's due. Kiewa Sandy Creek were dominant early and were able to convert that into scoreboard pressure. The defending premier will head into the preliminary final chock-full of confidence.

BG: Did you see any injuries to the Hawks or did they look to get through unscathed?

PP: Michael Thompson didn't play and from what I could see the only worry was Scott Bartel with a hamstring or hip complaint. I'm guessing Thompson will return but losing Bartel would be a blow if he can't come up.

BG: It was a big surprise to see Ricky Whitehead kept to one goal. Did Peter Winnett outpoint the big Swan or was the delivery not up to standard?

PP: Full credit to Winnett, he did an outstanding job. But Whitehead did look sore to me. The big Swan only received limited supply because the Hawks dominated the midfield battle. A lot of the Swans forward entries were rushed or not to his advantage. Its still been an outstanding season by Whitehead.

IN OTHER NEWS

BG: If Micahel Thompson plays, who looks the most likely match-up and why?

PP: Thompson has showed during his career is versatility and can play on anyone really. Cook or Spence are the match-winners for Barnawartha and the obvious choices. Or does he go forward?

BG: You correctly predicted last week that the goals would dry up for the big forwards like Peter Cook, Ricky Whitehead and Guy Telford. But you must have been surprised when Cook was kept goalless?

PP: I wasn't there but from what I've heard the Barnawartha and Chiltern was a brutal clash played at an energy sapping pace. I believe it has take a toll on both sides.

BG: Adam Mudra is rated highly within the league for his coaching ability. Could he be as successful at the higher standard of Ovens and Murray?

PP: Mudra spent a few years in the Bushrangers system so he's certainly got the runs on the board. He's a smart thinker, understands the game well and speaks very well to his players. Murdra has got a young family and it's a big enough commitment in the Tallangatta league. I've no doubt if he had the time and passion he could take on a senior role in the O&M.

BG: Do you think Thurgoona are as dominant as the scoreline reflected or was it flattered by the Tigers missing Tom Anson, Jarrod Williams and Connor Wiffen?

PP: There is little doubt the Bulldogs are a raging flag favourite. A lot will depend on who wins the preliminary final and if they can get through unscathed on the injury front.

BG: Who boasts the better midfield out of the Hawks and Tigers?

PP: I think the Hawks have a better mix of inside and outside midfielders.

BG: Who are you tipping and why?

PP: It's Kiewa Sandy Creek for me. I think the Hawks are peaking at the right time and although in theory have had the harder run, the matches haven't been as physical. It has given Mudra the perfect opportunity to get the Hawks match hardened but also allowing them the luxury to rest players late in matches which could prove pivotal.