Coopers - Friday Footy Preview

A strong looking Woodsmen outfit head north tonight to take on Sandgate in a clash that will likely decide 2nd spot on the ladder and secure the double chance.

The Woodsmen for just the 2nd time ever have lost 3 on the trot and won't be looking to set any new records this week!  Rocked by injury and unavailability in recent weeks, with 7 or 8 changes each week the Woodies are now looking closer to their full strength outfit as they approach finals.  A win hasn't been far away, with all 3 recent losses decided by less than 2 kicks.

The back 6 looks particularly strong, despite still missing regulars in Green, Long and Barkley - but those spots will be hard to regain as the current back 6 look to continue their good form.  Andrew Bell was particularly good last week keeping a dangerous opponent to just 1 goal (and only 1 other shot) while Travis Young is in strong consistent form and Scotty Matthews continues to improve every week in his return to footy.

For the first time this season, the Woodies will enjoy their full midfield rotations with the likes of Curtis, Woods, Hockley, Davis, McDonald, Garland to name just a few, while Thomson returns to ruck duties with the dominant Gerard Moore as backup.

The forward line looks particularly potent with midfield rotations on the flanks, Moore at CHF and deep in the square is Jay Baker with the support of Mihalopoulos in one pocket and the livewire Jake Fuentes in the other.  Baker is looking particularly ominous after 6 games back, kicking 12 goals in his recent 3 games including 5 last week against ladder leaders Zillmere in a 1 point loss.

Showing their strong depth the Woodies have quality on the bench to start the match in Toohey, Eaton, Matthews and Ness - who will all play a crucial role in the game.

Woodsmen vs Sandgate - Fri Aug 4 730pm @ Sandgate