Top position is sown up with 2nd to 4th to still be decided over the next 2 weeks. Realistically though, it’s a case of who’s going to be Runner-up to the Crusaders in this year’s Vic Bowl? Just being brutally honest here.
The early game in Bendigo saw the host Dragons taking on the Melton Wolves. The Dragons were looking to revenge their defeat from earlier in the year. It was a close, hard-fought battle between these two clubs, with the Wolves experience ultimately getting them over the line in the end. Wolves winning 28-20.
The Cru 2 and Northern Raiders faced off next. These 2 sides have formed a bit of a rivalry over the past 2 seasons. The Crusaders still had the edge in every contest so far between them. Judging by the score line, the Raiders had their chances to steal a victory here but couldn’t. Eventually the Cru 2 ran out winners 16-12.
The Croydon Rangers played host to the South Eastern Predators at Ranger Field. The Preds shot out of the blocks with 2 quick scores before the Rangers finally hit the endzone. The Rangers quickly dropped to a 20-6 margin and they just didn’t seem like they had recovered from the previous weeks heavy defeat. They seemed a bit flat. Was it a case of nerves with Former NFL player Jesse “Tha Monsta” Williams watching on?
The Preds were impressive in the air and without being spectacular on the ground, they got the job done. QB Brad Furguson connected with former Royals young gun WR, Cooper Maher, for 2 TD’s. The Rangers had a QB change with David Nilsson taking over. As best as Nilsson could do, with help from WR James Cleaver (2 TD’s and on the receiving end of a massive hit. SEE BELOW), they just couldn’t stop the Predators when they needed to. Ultimately going down 44-38 in an offensive display. Both clubs sit on 3-3 along with the Warriors.
The final game of the week was between the Western Crusaders and Warriors Gridiron. The Crusaders continued on their merry way with another 40+ points and a shutout. For the statisticians, this was their 5th shutout of the season having only been scored against twice this year. Final score 48-0.
Just 2 weeks left. Week 7 brings you some interesting matchups, across 3 different venues.
The early game is at MacPherson Park in Melton, with the Cru 2 hosting the Bendigo Dragons. Despite giving it their best, I don’t see the Dragons winning here. Hopefully they can just keep on building for next season. Cru should win 34-12.
The Northern Raiders travel to Melton to take on the Melton Wolves for the 2nd time this year. Last time the Raiders got the jump with the Wolves slowly pegging them back. Then the Raiders class shone through and they ran out easy victors. Hopefully the Wolves learned their lesson last time, well I hope their DB’s have. Raiders should win. Scores will be roughly 32-18 in favour of the Raiders.
Monash and Croydon head out to Hendy Street in Corio for their match up. Things have changed quite a bit since week 1, where the Rangers fell behind but then over ran the Warriors. This will be a much closer encounter. Can the Rangers turn the last 2 weeks around and get a win? or will the Warriors learn from last week and come out swinging? Too tough to separate. Rangers and Warriors play in the first draw for season 2022. Scores 20-20.
Finally, it’s the Predators hosting the Western Crusaders at Clayton South. I wish I could say the Preds win here but we know I can’t. The offense would have to play mistake free football and hold off a charging LB and DL core of the Crusaders, to have any hope of scoring. Crusaders win 46-0.
