Jordan Keras might have Anglesea well-placed for a decent crack at its first Bellarine premiership in 25 years, but the recently re-signed Roos coach isn’t looking beyond Saturday’s mouthwatering meeting with fellow double-chance hopeful Geelong Amateur at KFC Oval.
Anglesea sits second on the ladder, two points clear of Ammos and four ahead of Drysdale and Modewarre, who occupy fourth and fifth, respectively.
A win for the Roos would guarantee a qualifying final berth, even if the Hawks and Warriors both win, with Modewarre’s percentage just under 30 per cent less than Keras’ team.
However, talks of breaking the second-longest premiership drought in the competition won’t ramp up until finals are a certainty.
“We’ve always been optimistic with where our group can get to this year,” Keras said.
“It’s a much tighter competition, which makes things more exciting.
“After this week, based on where the results sit, I think those discussions will probably start to happen a little bit more.
“But (we are) firmly focussed on this weekend… I don’t think you can look too far past Round 17 in our comp right now.
“We just need to make sure we win this week, and when you do secure a (double) chance, you can’t start to build the hype.”
Anglesea is likely to face a fired-up Ammos, who, since handing Torquay its first loss of the season in Round 13, has narrowly defeated Barwon Heads and lost to Ocean Grove and Drysdale – the margin 87 points against the Hawks.
“I’m sure they’ll do their homework on us, and it’s going to be a really good contest,” Keras said.
“Our boys have got a bit to play for as well, so I’m sure it’s going to be a really contested game.”
Veteran Tom Couch will return from suspension, while Ash Caldwell, Fergus Huntington, Will Batson and Dyl Pettingill are also a chance to take on Amateur.
However, Courtney Wedderburn will be missing after accepting a one-week suspension for a high bump against the Demons.
“He plays on the edge – we love that,” Keras said. “But (he was) a bit clumsy with his approach
“We’re happy we’ll see him back for Round 18.”
EARLIER
Anglesea has received a boost ahead of a blockbuster penultimate round clash with Geelong Amateur after locking away playing coach Jordan Keras for a further two years.
The former NEAFL and VFL star joined the Roos from GFNL club St Joseph’s as co-coach alongside Paul Nigro ahead of the 2022 season.
He took the reins solo last year, guiding the Roos to a first semi-final appearance.
“It is a privilege to coach this amazing club,” Keras said on Anglesea’s Facebook page.
“The people, our players and the volunteers is what makes it so special to be a part of, and I am excited to continue what looks to be an exciting finish to this year and the next couple of years.”
Keras will make his 50th playing appearance for Anglesea against Ammos.
The Roos, who are looking to snap a 25-year premiership drought, sit second on the ladder.
A win on Saturday will lock away the double chance for the first time since reaching the preliminary final in 2018.
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