By Beth Newman
It’s a popular theory that you should never mention when a pitcher’s on a perfect game, but no one’s ever said anything about a perfect footy season.
The Surfers Paradise Demons are on the cusp of an unblemished 2013, but an 18-0 record would just be the cherry on top of the sundae of back-to-back premierships for coach, David Sloan.
Sloan told as much to his group in the lead up to this weekend’s SEQAFL Division One reserves grand final against the Magpies, but said they were feeling quietly confident.
“We’ve got confidence but we’re also wary,” Sloan said.
“The Magpies are a very strong club but we know if we do the basics right, we shouldn’t have a problem.”
Sloan said the stability of the group in recent years, with most having played in last year’s triumph, would definitely be a help going into the flag decider.
While they are in their second straight grand final, Sloan said the feeling was far different from that of last year, but the side knew they were on the cusp of something big.
“It’s a massive opportunity (to go back-to-back),” he said.
“It’s a totally different feeling this year, compared to last year, but we’ll be defined through our efforts tomorrow.”
Sloan attributed his side’s success this season to their evenness across the park.
“It’s about 1-22,” he said.
“We’re very even from player one to 22, that’s what I believe.”
Josh Graccogna, Cameron Steward and Dylan Armstrong will all come into the Demons side this weekend.
Sloan said the selflessness of his side meant selection conversations were much easier than he expected.
“One of the great things is the character and the selflessness of the guys,” he said.
“One pulled out himself because he was only 84-90 per cent right and didn’t want to let the team down,” he said.
“The boys took it well.”
The Magpies will have some talent back in their side for the grand final, with forwards, Matt Thompson and Kale Reed returning from the senior side for the match.
Coach Todd Dunn said those experienced inclusions would make a massive difference to the side for the decider.
“Having a couple of older heads and a bit of experience, will straighten us up a bit,” he said.
Dunn said the Demons’ Dan Green would be the big danger for the Magpies tomorrow, with the league best and fairest in sensational form.
Regardless of the final outcome, Dunn said it was crucial for the younger players to get grand final experience.
“It’s probably the best experience they can get at this stage in their careers,” he said.
“As they come through the ranks, it will hold them in good stead.”
The Demons and Magpies face off for the SEQAFL Division One Reserves premiership from 11:45am tomorrow at Giffin Park, Coorparoo.
As well as social media, live updates will be provided on the AFLQ website live blog.
