YANCO-WAMOON are one game away from booking a first grade grand final spot, but to get there won’t be easy.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The Hawks will face-off with minor premiers Yenda Blueheelers on Sunday, but with on eye on the prize, there’s no looking back for Yanco-Wamoon.
Last weekend they defeated Tullibigeal Lakes United, which was something they hadn’t been able to do all season up until that point.
It’s a similar story on Sunday as the Hawks have gone down to Yenda in their two previous match ups in 2018.
However, that history counts for nothing now, according to Yanco-Wamoon coach Nick Puntoriero.
RELATED
“Both times we’ve played Yenda this year we’ve had pretty poor second halves,” he said.
“Last weekend we beat TLU and that was the first time this season we’ve done that.
“I don’t see why we can’t do that again this weekend. I’m pretty sure we’ve surprised a few clubs with how we’ve gone in the finals, but we always knew if we put in the hard work we would be there about.”
The Hawks are expecting to take in the same team as last weekend into Sunday’s all-important preliminary final.
Preparations have been kept to the norm this week as the first grade side puts the final touches on their game.
Puntoriero said there were several key factors to beating the Blueheelers.
“They have four really good front rowers and young, fast fellas in the backs,” he said.
“We’ll need to stop the go forward for those front rowers and tire them out, which will hopefully limit the backs.
“Defence will also be crucial as it always is.”
Yanco-Wamoon will also have their under 16s vying for a spot in the grand final, while their under 18s have already secured their position in next weekend’s big dance.
With finals always being a big occasion, the pressure can sometimes mount and get in the heads of players.
Puntoriero doesn’t see this being a problem for his side.
“I don’t think nerves will be a problem,” he said.
“We’re just treating each week as it comes.
“You just need to focus on your game. We need to make sure we compete for the full 80 minutes.”
****
While you’re with us, you can now receive updates straight to your inbox every Friday at 6am from The Irrigator. To make sure you’re up to date with all news in Leeton sign up here.