Round 17 Q&A with League Coach Cam Shepherd

Q : Were you disappointed to lose this game, especially following the great result v SF the week before?

A : Yes of course. We had set ourselves to win both of these games against teams in the top 3, and through that, establish ourselves in the 5. Unfortunately we couldn’t get the last bit done against WP, whom played a wonderful last quarter and capitalised a bit on our lack of rotations in the 4^th quarter.

Q : Who were the better performers against WP ?

A : Our better players included D.Pearce, Grey, Taberner, Dixon and Bell. Obviously Harley played really strongly as well with one of his goals quite special. We were pleased with many players effort especially in the first 3 quarters. It should also be noted that we were playing a very mature and strong opposition with their youngest being two 20yo, then the rest being mainly experienced 23-30yo and hardened WAFL players. Our  Peel team on the other hand had 5 teenagers.

Q : So where to now. Are we still a chance to make the finals?

A : When you look at the table it seems the spots from 4^th to 8^th are so close that every team in those positions is still a real chance. We have to be realistic and recognise that our percentage is some way below some of our competitors so it is essential we keep winning and then assess weekly. In other words take care of our own destiny.

Q : Do you think having won the last two premierships that opposition sides prepare better than they did before when playing Peel?

A : There is no doubt that is the case, and we would want it any other way. We have earnt the respect of the competition through performance and we are proud of that. At the same time we want to maintain our high standards and compete in the finals in 2018.

Q : Anything you want to say to our members?

A : Yes. Come down to Bendigo Bank this Saturday and support the team, fly the flag for the boys!

Get down to the round 18 clash against East Perth, this Saturday 4th August.

Bounce down at 2:15pm.