Leopold captain Marcus Thompson admits some tough calls are coming for the Lions’ coaching staff ahead of Friday’s GFNL grand final at GMHBA Stadium.
The Lions could make up to five changes for the clash with South Barwon, with 2023 premiership trio Andrew Pepper, Ollie Tate and Tev Nofi, exciting young forward Max Annandale, and Geelong VFL-listed Bailey van de Heuvel all expected to be available.
Pepper, Nofi and Annandale all played in the qualifying final win over St Mary’s but missed the second semi-final victory over St Joseph’s.
Tate and van de Heuvel have been sidelined since rounds 16 and 17, respectively.
“(They are) extremely tough calls,” Thompson said.
“As good as it is being in a grand final, this is certainly the hardest part about it, and having to have those conversations and get around guys who have missed out.
“The message (that) goes to those guys (who miss out) is, ‘They’ve been a huge part of this year, and they should feel a part of it’.
“But, ultimately, we just ask them to continue to play for Leopold and do the best they can to one day win a premiership with us.”
South will have its own heartbreak story on Friday.
A fractured scapula suffered in the first semi-final win over St Mary’s has ended the season of vice-captain Taylor Mulraney.
“He’s such an amazing person… and, obviously, a great player as well,” captain Matt Caldow said.
“We’re shattered for grub that things didn’t work out for him this year.
“He was in the coaches’ box Saturday, and I’m sure he’ll have (an) impact again throughout the week.
“He’s an experienced head; I think he’s won five (premierships) down at Koroit, so he knows what grand final day is about.
“Yeah, we’ll still lean on Grub’s experience and character to help us through.”
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