
Big day for Reddies
WITH 31 players still in the mix for a grand-final berth today and only 22 positions available, it seems unfair to those who missed out.
Every player still available until the death knell on the selection time last Thursday night was responsible in some way for the team being where it is today.
It has been the most complete performance by a Redbacks squad that I have ever seen or been involved with, on and off the field.
Well done Keith Clarke and your executive.
Kurt Millard and brother Kris will undergo final fitness tests this morning, but club remedial therapist Phil Strang is confident both players will make the grade.
Strang is concerned about Cam Peterson who will also be tested due to calf stiffness.
Gavin O'Leary is the worst affected as he only missed one game during the season due to the rotation system and will be on the sidelines today with his left hand in plaster.
Coach Peter Millard is happy with the final selection and believes if the younger guys can get their nerves under control early in the game, the team as a whole will perform well.
Training has been good during the week, team meetings have been successful and community support has been very encouraging.
Toowoomba Tigers will be ready this time around and will be expecting the Reddies to come out of the chutes fast and furious.
Their finals experience over the last three seasons will be advantageous, as will the parochial home crowd.
They are a fast-running team and will be very keen to retain the premiership cup they deserved in 2010.
The Redbacks should have the upper hand through the mid-field with Brendan Iles, Clint McErvale and Matt Sinkins in scintillating form.
Forwards Aaron Lawlor and Jason Wright will be closely checked and Alex Cutmore's ruck work will come under close scrutiny.
This game is shaping up to be one of the best for the season and will be a true football fan's delight.
The players and support staff bus will leave Slade Park at 11.30am.
That will be followed by a supporter's bus departing from the same venue at 12.30pm.
The game starts at Rockville Oval next to the government offices in Tor St, Toowoomba, at 2.30pm.