Community Umpiring Round – match previews

Round 5 of the AFL North Coast Senior Competition sees a resumption of normal service following last week’s C.ex Group Cross Conference Round. It also doubles as Community Umpiring Round when we acknowledge the vitally important role that Umpires play in ensuring that people can enjoy their passion for playing footy in a safe and positive environment.

In the first of the matches, Sawtell Toormina Saints host the Port Macquarie Magpies who are desperate for their first win of the season. And where better to do it than at the home ground of their arch enemy?

Sawtell returned to form last week with a strong win on the road over the Lismore Swans and will be looking to build momentum. Key players such as Leif Stuart and Matt Flynn are expected to return to the line-up this week, which just increases the challenge for the Magpies.

Port fielded their strongest team of the season last week and, whilst a win has remained elusive, their performances in their last two outings have proven that they aren’t far off. The keys for Port will be ensuring that they get a fast start and that their kicking for goal is on song.

Coffs Breakers will be looking to bounce back after a disappointing first loss of the season. They come up against a Grafton Tigers side who are smarting from the defeat inflicted upon them by Byron and will be keen to show that result was an aberration.

Breakers travelled light to Ballina and weren’t at the races last week. They will be looking at up to 12 changes in personnel and will have learnt the valuable lesson that silky skills aren’t worth much if you don’t win the ball at the contest.

Grafton were beaten by over 200 points in the previous round but didn’t drop their heads at any stage. They trained strongly last night, with good energy and enthusiasm, and will be looking to exert pressure on the Breakers.

Community Umpiring Round highlights the fun and enjoyment people can have by umpiring community football. Umpiring is a great way for those that love the game to be involved and “get in the game”.

Fixtures

Sawtell Toormina Saints v Port Macquarie Magpies, Richardson Park, Sawtell at 2:20pm

Coffs Breakers v Grafton Tigers, Coffs Coast Sport & Leisure Park 1, Coffs Harbour at 2:20pm