TULLAMARINE is looking to finally take home some silverware in what will be its third Essendon Ford Division 1 Grand Final appearance since 2014.
EDFL Match of the Day radio analyst Kaine Hocking gives us his top five players to keep an eye on in red and navy blue out on Windy Hill this Saturday.
#11 - ANTHONY PRESTIA
Recruited across from Essendon Doutta Stars in the summer, Anthony Prestia has been one of the most damaging forward/mids in Essendon Ford Division 1.
Having him back in the line-up after missing the second semi will definitely help Dave Connell sleep a little easier at night during grand final week.
Prestia’s a goalkicking midfielder, having slotted 20 for the year and on five occasions, he’s scored three or more within a single game, so he’s a match-up headache for Airport West coach, Geoff Maddern.
In the second semi against the Eagles, Tullamarine lost the midfield battle despite ruckman Mark Maric having a good day at the office, so having Prestia back is a huge boost for the Demons’ engine room.
#4 - DEAN BARTROP
Dean Bartrop looked like he had his hands full with Tyson Young in the second semi two weeks ago.
He will need to be switched on from the get-go if he gets the job on the dangerous Eagle again here.
Bartrop needs to be able to push forward and try to hurt Young on the rebound, and if he’s successful in doing so then he’ll become an important player in the grand final for Tullamarine, as it’ll test Young defensively.
When Young rolls forward it’s important Bartrop communicates well with his back six.
If this match-up does eventuate then a lot will be riding on it for both sides.
#6 - JACK KENNEDY
Tullamarine’s big mid-season recruit has big-game experience on this very ground with Keilor two years ago and it showed in patches in the second semi against the Eagles.
The Demons will be hoping for more of the same and perhaps a little bit more here.
Kennedy gives Tullamarine some spark and aggression and his energy brings team mates into the game.
He’s a highly skilful player and could turn the game on its head in just five minutes if he gets hot.
If his body is willing, then he might be a chance to collect the David McWilliam Medal if Tullamarine gets up.
#25 - RUSSELL LAURIE
Could it be a fairy tale ending for one of Tullamarine’s all-time club legends?
Laurie holds the key to Tullamarine’s back six and has been that man for some time, now.
His job on Tyson Young a fortnight ago forced Geoff Maddern to push his star utility into the midfield for the majority of the game.
But with Alex Penaluna getting off the leash and snagging five in the second semi, expect Laurie to get that job when the Airport West big man pushes forward.
#18 - KANE MULVANEY
Rarely sighted two weeks ago, this classy left footer will be out to make amends against the same opposition at Windy Hill.
The 23-year-old midfielder provides a vital link for the Demons and if they want to lift the premiership cup at about 5pm then its important the ball gets into his hands and onto his trusty left boot when penetrating forward 50.
The likes of Ryan Pretty, Brad Allen and Joel Flanigan will be licking their lips if they see number 18 streaming forward.
Kaine Hocking will be part of the live coverage of Airport West v Tullamarine from 2pm – 5:30pm on 98.9 North West FM & Mixlr.com/edflfooty.
