Lobb: “We’ll back ourselves”
The chance to progress to Manly’s first senior men’s grand final since 1995 has the current playing group ready to rock this Saturday night at Cromer Park.
Standing in their way is a significant obstacle in the form of Rockdale.
But Manly don’t fear anyone, and they also haven’t been beaten by the Suns in two meetings this season.
“Rockdale are a very good team – you don’t finish third in this competition if you are mugs,’’ Manly captain Jamie Lobb said ahead of the preliminary final.
“I’m not worried about them though – our boys are excited about creating our own history.
“We’ll back ourselves.
“We have quite a few players who can change a game in an instant.
“Our belief is growing each week.”
Hosting the winner-takes-all clash could prove to be telling.
This week Rockdale’s Ilinden Sports Centre was deemed unacceptable to play on and, after failing to secure a neutral venue in time, the Suns were forced to play their ‘‘home’’ semi-final on the northern beaches.
“I think it will be huge for us, we would love to see a big crowd up in the (Lucas Neill) grandstand cheering us on,’’ Lobb said.
“Every little advantage helps.”
Kick-off is 5pm.
** MWFA Season Passes are not valid for entry to Football NSW finals series **
