“Arctic Park” – the venue for a Tough Encounter.

“Arctic Park” – the venue for a Tough Encounter.

Tim Cook and Steve Jolliffe prior to the GWS match.

Newcomer Travis Bull receives his playing jumper from Committee person Rowan Johnstone prior to the GWS game last weekend.

It may not be the most inviting place to attend, but Greenway Oval will be the venue for the match of the round this Sunday when the Tigers take on Tuggeranong in the Round 9 match of the NEAFL – Eastern Conference competition.

The Hawks defeated 2010 grand finalists Eastlake last weekend. This after their one point victory over Belconnen the previous week. From all reports they should have defeated Ainslie in Round 6 when leading by four goals going into the last quarter.

They are on the rise with a maturing group of players who have now been together for a considerable time. They are certain to provide stiff opposition on their home turf for the youthful Tigers combination. In fact all three matches will provide spectators with a fantastic day of footy albeit at “Arctic Park”.

Normal game times apply this week with the Under 18’s due to kick the ice off at 9.30am, followed by the Reserves at 11.30am and the NEAFL match at 2.00pm. Pace will be an important factor in team selection for the main grade this Sunday. The Hawks have a young, fast and determined group of players with a game plan not popular with spectators but which has been affective in recent weeks – as it was last year.

The Tigers should have the likes of Alex Overs, Kaine Stevens, Ryan Price and Jeremy Kirkwood in contention for selection after missing last week. They are all young, have pace and strong ball winners.

There are also many players in the Reserves putting their hand up for selection after strong performances in recent weeks. Brett Fruend, Paul Franchi, Jared Daniel and Chris Haddock may well be promoted for this important clash on Sunday. The winner will move clear into 4th spot.

The Ladies team play the experienced Ainslie combination on Sunday at the Queanbeyan Park at 12 noon. They will be looking to continue their good form of last week when they chalked up their second win of the season.