After missing out on the first spot in the McDonald’s Northern Inland Premier League decider, Norths United are ready to make their claim for the second spot at home on Saturday.
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The Redmen clash with North Companions for the chance to play Oxley Vale Attunga in the big dance.
Norths co-coach Scott Freeman said his side were missing a handful of regular first graders against OVA but a special display by the opposition goalkeeper was what kept them from winning.
“I don't think he could play any better, he was brilliant,” he said.
“We had a couple of players backing up from reserve grade because we had four players out, three injured and one away. If we can go out and play pretty much the same way we played last weekend we should go close to getting the cookies.
“It was disappointing last weekend but that's the way football goes.”
Norths grand final qualifier opponents have burned teams with their pace and Freeman believes the Redmen will have a defensive battle on their hands.
“They're a young, fast, fit team, very fast up the front so our back four are going to have their hands full,” he said.
“You don't have the leading goal scorer in your team and not be dangerous. It will be a competitive encounter from start to finish.”
The four who missed the Mushies’ game will return this weekend.
“It gives us some normal strength,” Freeman said.
“The guys that stepped up still did an amazing job but these guys are the regular first graders so they what's expected of them.”