VPL Preliminary Final: Dandenong Thunder

Dandenong Thunder have had a season to remember; claiming the VPL Minor Premiership weeks in advance before taking out the Dockerty Cup. Their aim is now to claim the first Victorian treble for 31 years with the next step a match against Green Gully Cavaliers this Saturday in the Victorian Premier League Preliminary Final. Here we preview their chances against last season’s runner-up.

Read the Green Gully Cavaliers preview here.

Last week:
With the chance to go straight to the Grand Final, Dandenong lost through penalties to Oakleigh Cannons despite a late equaliser in extra time from Nate Foster. This has forced the Thunder into an extra match which they didn’t want, especially up against experienced campaigners Green Gully.

This week:
The equation is simple; win and you join Oakleigh in the VPL Grand Final at AAMI Park, lose and you join ten other teams who didn’t make the grade this season. Having been the most dominant side in the VPL all year, Dandenong will not like the prospect of bowing out in straight sets.

Why Dandenong will beat Oakleigh:
A solid defence, an impressive midfield and an explosive forward line; Dandenong seemingly have everything. Strength all over the pitch and no over-reliance on any particular players are all part of Dandenong’s game plan and what makes them so daunting. If they can fire on all cylinders a repeat of the two 3-0 victories earlier this season is not out of the question.

Why Dandenong won't beat Oakleigh:
Green Gully are a team bred for finals matches. Having won the past two VPL Grand Finals, the Cavaliers know what is needed to succeed at the business end of the season while Dandenong have history in not making the most of their Minor Premiership; falling short in 2009 after winning the regular season.

Player to watch:
With Mathew Theodore ruled out for the rest of the season after tearing two tendons off the bone during the Oakleigh match, there will be big pressure on Ross Thompson to plug the gap in the midfield. The 2009 VPL Gold Medal winner has the pedigree and reputation to do it, but he will need to bring out his best to control the strong Green Gully.

Prediction:
A match which is almost impossible to call. As much as Dandenong should get through based on their season so far and the players in their squad, there is a lingering feeling that Green Gully will get the business done.

Match details:
What: VPL Preliminary Final
Who: Dandenong Thunder vs Green Gully Cavaliers
Where: Kingston Heath Soccer Complex
When: 3pm, Saturday Friday 6 October