Season at stake for Bulls, Eagles

A proud Collie Eagles are out to vindicate their spot in the finals after a disastrous loss at the weekend.

The Eagles and Bulls will put their seasons on the line when they meet in the first semi-final at the Collie Recreation Ground this Sunday.

Bulls coach Paul Fimmano said he expected a fired-up Eagles.

“Last time we played them when they were coming off a loss they came out firing,” he said.

Fimmano said stalwart Mark Cherubino would return to the team this weekend after missing the elimination final because his partner had a baby, while Nic Carney and Zetlind Marino were both a chance to return from injury.

He said midfielder Dean Miller would play this weekend, despite not playing after half-time in the elimination final.

“He had a bit of a niggle and with the cold weather we decided it was best not to risk him,” he said.

“But he will be fine.”

Eagles coach Clint Swallow said Jeb Swallow would be back for the semi-final clash, but defender Chase Griggs would miss again due to a hamstring injury.

“We will have a look at selections on Friday night,” he said.

Swallow said versatile key position player Mat Michael would start forward this weekend after starring in their last encounter.

“Last time he kicked five goals, so it will be hard to look past that,” he said. Swallow said the Bulls’ midfield depth would mean the game should be a “tight tussle”.

“Every time we play them we have good games,” he said.

Fimmano said he watched Sunday’s qualifying final and was wary of the Eagles despite their loss.

He said with the added pressure of finals mistakes were bound to happen and it was important to “halve the contests” if they are to win.

Fimmano said he expected Michael or Swallow to play up forward but believed his team had the depth in defence to cover the pair.