By Jonty Ralphsmith
Devon Meadows face Edi-Asp on the road on Saturday in Division 2 of the Mornington Peninsula Football Netball League.
It’s arguably a bigger test than what Devon Meadows has faced this season, with Edi-Asp’s only loss being to a formidable Chelsea lineup.
It will be a mouthwatering clash of former AFL talent, with Patrick Ryder set to be stationed up one end of the field, likely on former Frankston VFL-listed Liam Hiscock, and Edi-Asp’s Tyrone Vickery at the other.
Fullback Dylan Gregson is likely to have the direct match-up, but will be added by the synergy of the back six, while Jayden Sullivan will look to give him a chop-out with his intercepting.
In his second game back from an Osteitis Pubis layoff, young ruck Riley Simmons has a big task to give his quick and fit midfielders first use against a lineup containing the in-form Kurt Lopo.
Joel Hillis has taken his footy to another level in 2024, with his fitness and polish impressing, but it will be the hardness of the on-ball brigade which will be crucial.
Devon has a midfield that bats deep and will hope that proves the winning formula against a unit with a clear leader.
The match kick starts a tough month for the Panthers with likely finalists Somerville and Chelsea also on the horizon, in between the struggling Rye.
