How the papers see it - 18.6.03

[Dale61]

Seagulls ready to Rocca

Off-the-boil Collingwood centre half-forward Anthony Rocca is expected to line-up for Williamstown in the grudge match against Werribee at Point Gellibrand Oval this Sunday.

Rocca desperately needs to regain some touch as the AFL takes a breather this weekend.

Coach Michael Malthouse is believed to be thinking a spell with the Seagulls could do the trick for Rocca.

The Tigers, too, may also be strengthened with the appearance of Western Bulldogs centre half-forward Daniel Bandy, who is on the comeback trail from injury.

The possible appearances of the big guns will certainly add some spice to the big game.

The blue and golds will be keen to bounce back after having seven-game winning streak stopped by the all-conquering Box Hill in a howling wind at Point Gellibrand Oval last Saturday.

Coach Brad Gotch described the conditions as "unbelievable" on Stereo 974 FM after the game.

"It was one of those treacherous days at Point Gellibrand that you expect from time to time," he added.

Gotch wasn't overly concerned about the loss.

He praised the "great spirit and courage" displayed by the players.

He lamented his side's sluggish start to the game.

Williamstown could only manage just 1.3 (to 0.3) with the breeze - to the scoreboard end - in the first quarter.

"I think our first quarter had a fair impact," he said.

"We didn't make the most of opening up the forward line."

Gotch gave lion-hearted ruck-rover and co-captain Brad Lloyd a pat on the back.

"I thought he really held his head high," he said.

Half-forward Josh Mahoney made the most of his opportunities to kick three goals.

Star centreman Adrian Fletcher suffered an ankle injury.

Stereo 974 FM will broadcast the Williamstown / Werribee game live.

Courtesy The Mail - June 18 2003.