GV Division 2 Power Rankings Week 5

1. Northern Raiders (4-1) Same Power Ranking

What a way to bounce back from a shock defeat in week 4. The boys from the Northern Suburbs showed some real grit in their win over the second placed Wolves. The Number 1 Ranking is firmly yours again, however, will it last?

The ever stout Defence of the Raiders lost what I believe to be their best Linebacker for the rest of the year to the U S of A. On top of that, the win against the Wolves came with the injuries, two other linebackers.

So, the question is, do they have the depth? Don’t forget QB De Ciccio is still out for another 4-5 weeks. A well-timed BYE this week. Time to rest up, recover and show us some more of that character. One things for sure though, Matthew Jenkins. Wherever you are. STAY. It seems to be working.

2. Melton Wolves (2-2) Same Power Ranking

Despite a very slow start against the Northern Raiders, the Wolves impressively put up 21 points against the best ranked Defence in Division 2 in one half of football. Unfortunately, it was in the second half and was a little too late to walk away with the win.

I’ve made it clear that only one man can take credit for the high ranking of the Wolves however unless someone else can start making an impact on game days, the Wolves could take a fall.

3. Western Crusaders II (3-1) Same Power Ranking

Cru II have their first loss the same week that Division 1 begin their season. Coincidence? I don’t know, I just like to stir the pot, but in saying that, they did seem to have less on the sideline in week 5.

Unfortunately, they fell victim to both a Barbarians defense that has gotten significantly better and inexperience in the backfield. Still persisting with what I like to call the ‘Tyson Garnham Offense’, the rookie backfield just can’t keep hold of that ball. Like I’ve said before, Division 2 football hinges on the mistakes.

With what has been an easier start to the season then most teams, it’ll be interesting to see where this team settles at the midway point of the season.

4. Ballarat Falcons (3-2) Same Power Ranking

So, we’ve established that Ballarat love football, now they’re going to need to show they know football. One thing they’ve relied upon all season is be that annoying little mosquito that won’t go away.

Unfortunately I’m not referring to their score lines. The Falcons are chirpy, chippy, annoying and borderline retarded and each week manage to get under the oppositions skin and bring them to a breaking point.

The wirily Falcons are still relying on a few big plays to affect the result of the game. Big interceptions or one or two big receptions won’t work against a Dragons team that don’t make many mistakes, just bad execution. This will be a great test of character for the Falcons this week. Lets see what they can do.

On a side note, they also don’t have enough man buns. Get more man buns

5. Monash Barbarians (2-2) Up 1 Power Ranking

The old reverse psychology trick. So, let me try this. You guys suck! You won’t win this week, in fact you’re miserable!!

…..But in all honesty, they are starting to show some potential and against CCU this weekend, they should continue. Part of me was willing to elevate their Power Rankings dramatically this week however with how I expect Division 2’s week 6 results go, I thought I’d save the controversial jumps for next week.

A lot of credit must go to Quarterback Stuart Little. Despite his stature, Richie Truong shows potential in throwing when (presuming a passing lane be big enough) but does his best work when he scrambles. With feet like a rabbit, let’s hope Truong stays healthy.

6. Bendigo Dragons (1-3) Down 1 Power Ranking

Lowest Power Ranking EVER! Moving down 1 by default this week. You must give the credit where the credit is due. Being they had the BYE week last week I thought I’d steal some of Scott’s thunder and talk about the week to come.

This week bodes to be a very important game for the Dragons, facing Ballarat for the 5^th Goldfields Bowl, the Dragons have never lost an encounter against the Falcons and need to win it again to help put their season back on track. This looms to be the closest Goldfields bowl yet with either team able to take it.

The Dragons comfortably dealt with Ballarat in the preseason however both teams forms have completely flipped since the season began.

Here’s a wager for my readers. If my beloved Dragons lose the Goldfields bowl this weekend, I promise I will apologize to every Division 2 team via video for all the naughty things I’ve said. (I hope the editor approves this) …..

7. Casey Cardinia United (0-4) Same Power Ranking

Another loss, albeit a closer result. But I’ll be nice, I won’t talk about it this week. You know what, I won’t even make fun of your club’s name. BUT what I will talk about is probably one of the most interesting talking points of the Division 2 season.

Although the much-anticipated match of flag football seems to attract less penalties this time around, there was more tension between the two sides then an Alabama family reunion (thankfully this time around it wasn’t sexual).

In fact, so much so that after the game while Ballarat lined up to complete the chivalrous task of shaking the oppositions hands, CCU Head Coach Tindall informed Ballarat of their intentions to not perform this sportsmanship task. And yes, informed is a euphemism. My kindergarten teacher would’ve have fainted by what was said. Dirty little potty mouth. Tisk tisk tisk.

…Back to football. Good luck next week I guess?

Check out the 2017 Gridiron Victoria Standing and upcoming schedule.