Sam Reid has been a statistical monster since returning from injury in round 15. Photos: Bruce Povey
Echuca and Rochester are set for a blockbuster final in the Goulburn Valley League this weekend at Kyabram Recreation Reserve, with the winner to be the first side through to the grand final.
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The Tigers are the only side to have defeated the Murray Bombers this campaign, but the two-time champions responded in a big way in the second leg of round 16, registering a 74-point thrashing.
How this crucial match-up plays out may be decided by which players are coming into a rich vein of form at the right time of year.
The Murray Bombers have had only sporadic access to Sam Reid this season, as the key on-baller has struggled with injury throughout the year.
His return since round 15 has been a welcome one for Echuca, as Reid has been putting up some impressive numbers over those last five games.
A total of 155.6 ranking points per contest tell the overall story of Reid’s impact, with the Murray Bomber contributing across the park.
And 35.4 disposals per game at a 71.75 per cent efficiency paint Reid as a lynchpin of Echuca’s offence, while he has also been registering 8.6 clearances since his return, while getting the ball inside 50 4.2 times a game.
Reid’s use of the ball has led to an average of 11 score involvements per game, while the Murray Bombers follower also gets work done out of possession, averaging 4.4 intercept possessions and 5.6 tackles per game.
Mitch Cricelli reeled in seven marks inside 50 in the elimination final with Euroa, leading to six goals for the Tigers forward.
Photo by
BrucePoveyPhotos.com 2022
Over in the Rochester camp, Mitch Cricelli looks to be on the upswing after a dominant outing at full-forward for the Tigers against Euroa.
Cricelli racked up 152 ranking points in the elimination final, putting in an impressive effort in front of goal.
The Rochy big man rose up to grab seven marks inside 50, leading to a six straight goal-kicking performance.
Cricelli also contributed 16 disposals at a 93.75 per cent efficiency while distributing 24 hit-outs and earning two clearances.
Whether Reid or Cricelli will rise to the occasion again, and which of their teammates will lift with a grand final spot on the line remains to be seen.
