Queenscliff coach Heath Jamieson says his side has already shifted its focus to redemption this week after a disappointing opening to their finals campaign.
Speaking 72 hours on from a 105-point qualifying final hiding at the hands of two-time reigning premier Torquay, Jamieson admitted his young group was “overawed” against a hardened opposition.
However, the experienced mentor believes the experience will serve them well heading into a do-or-die first semi-final clash with Anglesea on Sunday.
“We move on pretty quickly,” Jamieson said. “There’s no use dwelling on that result. We had 17 players under the age of 22 going up against a really strong, experienced finals side.
“I probably played that fact down before the game, but it was always in the back of my mind. When they came out, all guns firing, we didn’t handle it too well.
“But we’re in a position we didn’t think we’d be in, so we get a second chance. I’m sure you’ll see a better version of us this week.”
While the inside-50 count was surprisingly close, 50-45 Torquay’s way, Queenscliff struggled to gain any real ascendancy and failed to generate scoreboard pressure.
“We just didn’t play our way at all,” Jamieson said.
“We were beaten in most facets of the game.
“But the best part about second chances is you can come out this weekend, dust yourself off, and bring a better performance.”
The Coutas now turn their attention to a meeting with the Roos, who they drew with in a dramatic final round clash at Ellimatta Reserve.
“They’re very similar to us – a quick, running team that moves the ball fast,” Jamieson said.
“When both sides are at their best, it’s a similar style of footy.
“A lot of people will look at the weekend’s results and say Anglesea will roll us, but I’ve been involved in football a long time – the loser of the qualifying final versus the winner of the elimination final is usually a lot closer than people predict.”
The Coutas will be forced into at least one change, with Jonas Seecamp ruled out after suffering a hamstring injury.
Tyler Monahan (adductor) and Jake Lindrea (shoulder) will also be monitored throughout the week.
On the positive side, reinforcements could be on the way, with Isaac McCabe declared a likely inclusion, and Ollie Skurrie and Jordy McIvor-Clark are both in with a chance to return.
Star forward Izaak Grant is likely to remain sidelined as he continues to consult specialists about his recovery timeline from a ruptured spleen suffered on June 28.
“He’s been to quite a few specialists trying to get the word he wants, but they’ve all been pretty steadfast – it’s three months from the injury,” Jamieson said.
“If he does play again, it might be grand final day if we get there.”
X: @krockfootball
