Premier League Preview 2
Men: Cambridge, Kardinya, Bassendean In edition two of our Premier League Preview we look at the clubs who finished 3rd, 4th and 5th in last season’s competition being Cambridge, Kardinya and Bassendean. Can they can take that next step to Pennant Flag glory or will they slip out of finals contention?
Cambridge
A slow start to the season saw Cambridge in the bottom half of the ladder early but a strong second half saw the Knights take second spot. After a strong performance in a close loss in their semi final against Doubleview the Knights were nothing short of woeful in the preliminary and were blown away by a scintillating Manning side. Cambridge once again have unfinished business in the premier league and must show that they can compete against the best once again. The club has found its arsenal cut down through player movements with state representatives Luke Richardson and Trystan Smallacombe as well as young third Ashley Sharp leaving the club. Add the absence of Brad Ball due to injury until at least Christmas and it looks like Cambridge could find its backend depth tested. The front end will have to find the form that saw them win a flag in 2012 to take them to the next level. The experience of Clive Adams, Pieter Harris and Jon Sharp could prove invaluable in dealing with the weakened depth at three. Overall Cambridge have fared better than fellow finalists Doubleview and Kardinya with less player losses which should see them remain one of the major chances.
Ins: Jim Barry (Doubleview)
Outs: Luke Richardson (Tasmania), Ashley Sharp (South Perth), Trystan Smallacombe (Northern Territory)
Pass Mark: Proved that they are around the place in the semi finals last year but fell short when the big moments came. Must atone for their preliminary final capitulation, go one better and make the grand final.
Prediction: Fourth
Kardinya
Surprised many with their finals appearance last year but look like they might struggle this year taking significant player losses. The Kats have lost players across the side without getting many in return and will have to turn to the second side to reinforce the ranks. Adding to the Kats problems are rumours surrounding whether or not Rosenthal Medalist Daniel Brown will return for this season. Kardinya’s major advantage is their home green, which is where most of their wins are likely to come this season. It is very important that they make the most of their opportunities at home to be any chance of pushing up the ladder. How well they can cover their losses will also be vital to the sides aspirations especially after losing two of last years skippers. If the Kats can shark a few wins away and win their games at home they ma end up being finals contenders again but a mid table position looks like a good result.
Ins: Dave Farley (Victoria Park/Carlisle), Dinko Golem(Leeming)
Outs: Kevin McKay (Armadale), Geoff Gould (Thailand), Brad Cole (Kwinana), Geoff White (Stirling), Rob Foy (Travel), Steve Hughes (Melville)
Pass Mark: After losing so many players demotion is a real possibility. If they stay up the Kats may be able to regroup next year. Avoiding relegation would be enough for this season.
Prediction Finish Ninth.
Bassendean
In third place with three games to play it looked like Bassendean would finally earn a place in the premier league finals, however surprise losses to Victoria Park and Osborne Park saw Manning jump them in the last round. Since joining the Premier league Bassendean have been able to improve their side every year and look every bit title contenders. The inclusions of Simon Alden, David Von Horn and Alex Burt will add to their depth and make premier league spots hard to come by. Add in the continued improvement of their younger players and the Lions shape as the dark horse for season 2015/16. The key to Bassendean’s season will be their front end. On paper the back end is capable of matching it with the best and if the front can take control Bassendean look likely to do what they couldn’t last year. A finals birth beckons.
Ins: Simon Alden (Kalamunda), David Von Horn (Kalamunda), Alex Burt (Kalamunda)
Outs: Nil
Pass Mark: Should have made the finals last year and with Kardinya’s personnel problems the way looks clear. A finals finish is needed and well within this groups capabilities.
Predicted Finish: Second
Note: Information is believed to be correct at time of being published.
Previous previews
Premier League Preview 1 Manning and Doubleview
