Wentworth v Irymple
SFNL senior football grand final
Paul Matheson, SFNL president
Wentworth by 21 points
“I think the game will be won in the centre clearances and with Wentworth getting first use of the ball, their forwards will capitalise. Both teams are evenly matched across the ground with some really good young fellas, but if Wentworth can match Irymple’s physicality, they will have the edge up forward.”
Jason Shields, Sunraysia Daily editor
Irymple by 11 points
“Wentworth have been the story of the year, and it would be great to see them win it. But I just feel Irymple will hold up defensively on the big stage. Wentworth must cash in when they have the momentum to have a chance.”
Matt Taylor, senior football writer
Irymple by 7 points
“I reckon this will be a typically low-scoring grand final. It’s also likely to be close, with both teams possessing strong back lines. There are always moments of magic in a big game, and I’m tipping a late flash of brilliance from either Nick Mee or Nick Pezzaniti to get the Swallows over the line.”
Sarah Buchecker, netball writer
Wentworth by 5 points
“Wentworth are likely to be riding a confidence high after their win against Irymple in the first semi-final. After a week off to strategise and train, the Roos may have the extra momentum they need to take down the Swallows in what I predict will be a tight contest.”
Jason Torney, football writer
Draw (Wentworth to win in extra time by 1 point)
“Irymple will learn from their qualifying final defeat and will match Wentworth at the contest and around the ground. Despite stern Irymple defence, Wentworth will make the better of their forward-line entries but Irymple will have plenty of scoring opportunities and, as a result, the teams will be unable to be separated in normal time.”
Nic Vine, football writer
Wentworth by 7 points
“It has felt like Wentworth’s season to win since their round 5 win over Irymple, which came in a run of scintillating football. They come in as the healthier team and will be hungry to win their first flag in 10 years. Look to Nick Jensen to be the man to control the game around the stoppages and in the air to give Wentworth the advantage.”
