Natimuk United’s season is well and truly on the line this weekend, hosting Swifts in a must-win clash.
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The Rams are clinging to sixth spot, two points clear of Laharum who is likely to take four points against the winless Lakers in the final round of the season this weekend.
Natimuk United coach Sam Anson said this is the biggest game of the season for his side.
“The prize is huge. The message to the guys is this is the last game to be remembered by,” he said.
“It’s a no-brainer and we need to put all our chips down and go all in.”
The Rams have lost four of their last five games, setting up a nervy finish to the season.
The two teams have developed one of the most competitive rivalries in the competition, with recent results highlighting how evenly matched the teams are.
Swifts have won two of the last three encounters with the Rams, with the other game (round eight this season) a draw. The Baggies’ two wins were by just five and four points respectively, with the latter in an elimination final last year.
“It has been great the rivalry we have got going between us and we expect another thriller,” Swifts coach Scott Carey said.
“Their structure and the way they play is second to none. Sam being at the helm has given them a game plan and they work together to achieve it.
“We will try to keep the game on our terms.”
Read more: Laharum takes on Lakers in must win
The Baggies will bring back Nick Thomas and Adam McGaffin for the contest but lose the experience of Nick Pickering and run of Ryan Folkes who are unavailable due to work commitments.
“It hurts a bit losing those guys but we have the cattle to be able to replace those blokes,” Carey said.
In contrast, the Rams will be near full strength for the crucial contest. Anson said he is confident with the team he will have out on the park.
“We have had a few season-ending injuries but we are confident with the team going out there,” he said.
“If this team can’t get it done I’m not sure what team we could put together that would.”
While the Rams are looking to book a spot in the finals, the Baggies already have one eye looking ahead to their elimination final clash against Edenhope-Apsley.
“There is plenty on the line for both teams this weekend. It is massive for us to get some momentum going our way ahead of out biggest match of the season,” Carey said.
“We are preparing for a hard fought game this weekend which should hold us in good stead for finals footy.”