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Round 4 Preview - Essendon Ford Division 1

By TARA MURRAY (Star Weekly)


TULLAMARINE v CRAIGIEBURN - Selected Squads

FACING each other for the first time since the 2016 Essendon Ford Division 1 Grand Final, this shapes up as an interesting game.

Both sides are undefeated after three rounds and have been impressive in their wins.

The Eagles completely destroyed Jacana on Saturday, kicking 200 points on the way.

They looked good and slick.

The Eagles have shown that they are a team that the opposition has to watch.

Dean Limbach kicked 10 on the weekend, while former skipper Brent Gordon looks to be relishing not having the extra duties this season.

The Demons had the week off after a couple of good wins against Jacana and Westmeadows.

The Demons were able to focus on their own game while surrounded by the Dane Swan show in Round 2 and look really focused.

Key recruits Ryan Pretty and Anthony Prestia haven’t missed a beat at their new club.

HILLSIDE v WESTMEADOWS - Selected Squads

These two sides enter this match off very different preparations.

Hillside had the weekend off due to playing on Good Friday and would have used the time to work on some things that have been lacking early on.

The Tigers also had the weekend off, but after playing on ANZAC Day in front of a big crowd.

With the big build-up to Rounds 2 and 3, the Tigers were likely looking for a bit of a break.

The question is, will there be a letdown this week with the hype gone.

If the Tigers were able to pull off a win, it would be an upset.

Both sides know where they are at this season, with the Sharks looking to win finals and the Tigers looking to build with their young playing group.

TAYLORS LAKES v OAK PARK - Selected Squads

This match shapes as a vital one for both sides as they look to keep in touch with the top four.

Taylors Lakes might only have one win for the season, but they have been better than that.

They stuck with Airport West for most of the game, while only smashed in one quarter by Hillside.

If they continue to show that good form, they will take some more scalps this season.

The Lions continue to slowly go about their way, with an eye on the future and signs are looking good at this stage.

A loss on Saturday will see Oak Park sitting 0-4.

To be fair, the Kangaroos have faced three sides which are expected to be among the finals mix, but haven’t been in the mix late in any game.

They led for a lot of ANZAC Day but the score didn’t reflect the match, with the Tigers struggling in front of goal.

The Kangaroos are a better side than what they’ve showed and surely a win isn’t far away.

AIRPORT WEST v JACANA - Selected Squads

While we’ll likely have some close games in Round 4, this could be a one-sided affair.

Airport West is the premiership favourite and rightly so, while Jacana has struggled in its first two games since promotion.

The Eagles come into the match having needed all four quarters to get past East Keilor on Saturday.

Their experience and extra depth proved crucial in the win.

The Jaguars on the other hand were on the end of a hiding against Craigieburn, losing by 122 points. 

The one positive for the Jaguars - they were still able to have some impact on the scoreboard, with Jason Cloke kicking four goals.

Those wanting for another close Division 1 season will be hoping these are just teething problems for the Jaguars and they are able to gel and go up another level from this week on.

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