Halls Head and Baldivis set for top two showdown

Both teams have started the season in terrific form and stand undefeated with 3-0 records, but one side is set to have its unblemished start tarnished.

Baldivis captain Kyle Westwood, who played in the league’s first Anzac Day match last season, said the game held a special significance for players.

“Every year the players look forward to it – it’s a special way to honour those who gave their lives so we have the freedom to play football,” he said.

“It’s held under lights and it really gets the adrenaline pumping.”

Before the game, a minute silence is held following a wreath laying ceremony.

Westwood said it was essential that players keep their emotions under control during the pre-game ritual.

“It’s easy to get caught up in the emotion of it all and naturally there are some nerves before the bounce,” he said.

“It’s important that all the players stay focused and keep their minds on the game.

“At the end of the day, we want the four points and we need to be on our game against such quality opposition.”

The Baldivis ruckman said his team needed to be clean when entering the forward line if they are to conquer Halls Head.

“Our backs are pretty strong, but the mids and forwards need to work together if we’re going to score enough,” he said.

“Their pressure is generally pretty good all around the ground, so we’ll need to be good with our movement and skill.”

While Halls Head’s renowned pressure can be expected, head coach Clayton Faulkingham said his side would need to take it a step further against the formidable Baldivis outfit.

“We have had some really good, physical hit-outs with Baldivis over the past few years and need to make sure we can contain their running players,” he said.

“Our pressure is usually quite reliable, but we need to make sure we bring our A-game to beat the top of the ladder.”

Both sides come into the game having notched comprehensive wins in round three.

Baldivis made light work of Centrals, demolishing them to the tune of 75 points, while Halls Head topped Rockingham by 51.

Halls Head captain Josh Bowe said both sides would be fighting hard to keep their unbeaten records.

“It’s going be a huge boost to either side – going 4-0 to start is a big step in the right direction,” he said.

“We’re really chasing that and hoping we can get the win.”

Bowe said being a part of Anzac Day was a special honour to the club.

“The game is a great way to pay tribute to the Anzac spirit and is a huge day for the country, so we’re stoked to be part of it in some way.”

The game will begin at 4.40pm, with Anzac Day ceremonies being held prior to the bounce.