The Brighton Renault Dewar Shield moves into the final round of the regular season as Harlequins take on Box Hill at Holmesglen Reserve.
We caught up with both sides before their Round 14 clash to hear their thoughts on their sides preparations and what they believe the opposition will bring game day.
Harlequins - Chris Allen
How is the side tracking heading into finals?
We have been improving each week but to be fair we still have plenty to work on. As with most sides we have been hit quite hard with injuries over the past 4-6 weeks but we should see some key players returning to the Quins jersey at the right time of year which is promising.
How do you feel your side performed against Box Hill in the first hit out between the two sides in Round 7?
Not great! We made a lot of mistakes and really got found out on the edges that day, Box Hill played really well and were up for the fight. We gave ourselves opportunities but our execution was poor, after that first 40 minutes it was a long way back for us. From memory the second half was closer but the damage was done.
What learnings did you take out of your Round 7 match against Box Hill?
Wasn’t anything I didn’t already know after reviewing a few of their matches – They play a very physical game at the breakdown and look to put teams under pressure especially on the counter attack where they have strike power all over the park. Essentially don’t give them the ball!
What do you expect Box Hill to bring to the match-up this time round?
Physicality in spades. Their big forward pack will look to get them front foot ball so their danger men can roam wide.
Which players do you expect to fire for Box Hill this weekend?
Their big Lock is a damaging ball runner if given space and I think their 9/10 combination controls the game well.
Box Hill - Tim Belcher
How is the side tracking heading into finals?
We are firmly focused on this last round robin match. I'm not too keen to focus on something not yet on the radar. We have a job to do and that's bag the lollies and hope Powerhouse do us a favour and we bag ourselves a Minor Premiership and 1st spot but we are firmly focused on this last round.
How do you feel your side performed against Harlequins in the first hit out between the two sides in Round 7?
The score line I think showed how we performed. It was a massively emotionally charged day with the Blazer on the line, old members day and Moe 300th so we played with a lot of passion and emotion but what impressed me was our control and discipline. We were able to apply pressure and really not allow Quins to do what they like to do.
What learnings did you take out of your Round 7 match against Harlequins?
Our biggest learning was probably gaining confidence that we can compete in this competition against the tradition heavy weights of the comp. But secondly and most importantly we were able to stick to our plan and execute it well.
What do you expect Harlequins to bring to the match-up this time round?
I'm expecting this to live up to its game of the round status. They are riding a wave after beating Unicorns last week its our job to knock them of their board and ensure we don't let emotions come into our performance. But I've said it many times in the insight dialogue that I'm more worried about what we do then our opponents, I can't control what they do or how they do it. Our fate is in our own hands.
Which players do you expect to fire for Harlequins this weekend?
All of them, it will be game on from the first whistle. Don't blink otherwise you might just miss it. Its a final atmosphere really and who knows we could be seeing each other again in the not so distant future. I encourage both clubs supports to flood the Quins ground for what could be the game of the round robin.
