Bluebirds set to swoop on leaders

THEY played out an entertaining 4-all draw when they met four weeks ago, but Bluebirds coach Gary Skinner believes his side has the skill to overcome Capricorn Coast this time around.

Skinner said the Bluebirds would have a full squad for tonight’s match against the league leaders and they “can’t wait” to get out onto the park and attempt to knock them over.

It is a crucial game for Bluebirds, who currently sit in fifth place, two points behind fourth-placed Clinton.

“To have some sort of aspirations of making the finals, we need to start taking points off the teams above us,” Skinner said.

“Last week against Nerimbera we were not smart enough and we didn’t take our chances when they were sitting at our feet.

“I think we’re up to it.”

Skinner said striker Michael Hansen, who is recovering from an ankle injury, will be starting in reserves and will add some strength to the bench.

He said 16-year-old Jordan Polkinghorne had done well since moving from the wing into central midfield.

Another clash that will go a long way towards deciding the finals placings is the battle between Nerimbera and Frenchville.

The sides last met four weeks ago with Frenchville getting the upper-hand 5-2 at Pilbeam Park.

Nerimbera coach Adam Wratten said they had been working on “crucial areas” at training to try and consolidate second spot.

He said he was wary of the skilful Frenchville midfield.

“They have some of the most talented players in the competition,” he said.

In Gladstone, fourth-placed Clinton will be looking to continue their unbeaten run when they face Yaralla.

Southside, meanwhile, heads to Gladstone to face Central at Sun Valley. The Gladstone side is also in the hunt for a maiden finals place, sitting sixth on 24 points.

In the other game, Berserker will take on the CQ Wildcats at Elizabeth Park.

Fixtures

Round 18 – July 31

Bluebirds v Capricorn Coast (Apex Park)

Frenchville v Nerimbera (Ryan Park)

Clinton v Yaralla (Gladstone)

Central v Southside (Gladstone)

Berserker v CQ Wildcats (Elizabeth Park)