Rovers midfielder Bobby Hall drives the ball forward during Saturday’s clash with Tocumwal.
Photo by
Mel Sampson
The Deni Rovers are coming off a big contest against Tocumwal and are now set to on the Katamatite Tigers at home, at Deniliquin Memorial Park, in round 12 of the Picola League.
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Following wins in the senior football and A-grade netball last week, both teams will have a tough contest on their hands this week.
Katamatite are placed third and fifth on the ladders in their respective competitions.
Rovers senior football coach Alex Hay said the Rovers’ eight point win, coming back from 15 points down at three-quarter time, showed the group’s persistence despite the circumstances.
“The win against Tocumwal was really positive for a number of reasons,” he said.
“Having a few out meant that we probably could have approached the game with some trepidation, but we're really building a mentality that if one goes out then the next one in, just has to play their role, and we did that really well on the weekend.
“Coming from behind in the last again shows that we’re growing in resilience and belief.
“That’s the kind of win that sets the tone for the second half of the year, so we were really pleased.”
The Rovers have had changes at about half-a-dozen positions in the last few weeks, which will continue to be a test for the side’s character and strategy in the coming weeks.
“It’s a balancing act, but it’s also an opportunity to show our depth.
“Injuries at times can test your culture more than your tactics.
“Our focus stays on what we can control: standards, and trust in the next man up.
“We won’t use injuries as an excuse, and the group knows that.
“While there are some challenges, this period’s a chance to find some opportunity in individuals and maybe our style of play, and that's exciting in itself.”
Rovers’ Cameron Wills fends off a strong challenge as he looks to move the ball forward.
Photo by
Mel Sampson
The Deni Rovers senior football side is in fifth position on the league ladder and get an opportunity over the next two weeks to play sides that sit above them on the ladder - first Katamatite and then second-placed Katandra away.
Hay said playing against the Tigers this week at home will be a good chance for the Rovers to again prove their mettle this season.
“Katamatite are always a benchmark side - well-coached, experienced, and they have quality on every line.
“But our game has matured since we played them last.
“At home, we will back ourselves in and look to use the size of the ground to our advantage.
“The support that we have had this year, and the last couple of years really, has been excellent.
“I think that they are enjoying our brand of footy, which also gives us a boost, so we'll be looking forward to that again this weekend.”
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