GVL Data

Mooroopna and Kyabram could go deep into finals, but have areas to improve in

By Liam Nash

Aug 10, 2023

Pick up the slack: Kyabram and Mooroopna can improve in pressure despite being strong across the ground. Photo by Bransen Gibson

When Kyabram trudges into Mooroopna Recreation Reserve this Saturday we’re likely to see sparks fly.

Hold tight - we’re checking permissions before loading more content

The reason lies in the points both outfits have to prove.

On one hand the Bombers conceded two of its three season losses in the past month.

On the other, John Lamont’s Cats threw away a 28-to-zip first-quarter lead against Seymour in their most recent hit-out.

So where do both sides need to pick up the slack?

Overall pressure is the clear standout.

Kyabram’s season pressure total of 1399 is the lowest of any side this year and Mooroopna isn’t far ahead in 11th with 1475.

However, the Cats are more inclined to throw their bodies at the opposition with an average of 59.2 tackles a game, far outstripping Kyabram’s 46.4.

The Bombers’ efficiency in front of goals also leaves plenty to be desired.

Although Paul Newman’s side is ranked second in the competition for inside 50 averages (47.4), Kyabram has kicked 143 behinds at a mean of 10.2 a game.

However, the Bombers must be praised for curbing their inaccuracy.

After kicking more points than goals in their first five games, the Bombers only faltered in that department twice in the following 10 matches.

As for Mooroopna, its kicking game also needs to be sharper if it is to oust Kyabram.

The Cats are slick ball movers from the hand as their 84.4 handball efficiency is the league’s second best, but sit eighth in kicking percentage with 61.5.

Kyabram claimed a 10.16 (76) to 9.11 (65) win when the two sides last met in round five and the difference between them was like splitting hairs when examining the stats sheet.

So, the difference-maker this weekend may be something computers can’t calibrate.

A moment of magic; a game saving tackle, a spectacular goal after the siren.

But improvements by either side in the categories they are deficient in may mean Mooroopna or Kyabram won’t need individual brilliance to seal the deal in round 16.