Big Roo warns Crows: “Don’t count out an underdog”
An overabundance of tall timber in the North Melbourne forward line could cause the Crows defence headaches – but is also proving a selection headache for Kangaroos coach Brad Scott ahead of a knockout final at Adelaide Oval on Saturday night.
Drew Petrie is confident he will hold his place to stretch Adelaide's defence. Photo: Ben Macmahon / AAP
North veteran Drew Petrie believes there’s no reason he can’t function in the same forward line as Jarrad Waite, Ben Brown and Majak Daw.
Scott faces a couple of tough selection calls ahead of the match, with key forward Waite (hip) and key defender Scott Thompson (groin) both expected to return.
Scott will be worried about overloading his forward line with four big forwards but Petrie feels he, Waite, Brown and Daw all offer something different.
“We definitely can (play in the same forward line). We all provide a bit of a point of difference in the way we play,” Petrie said.
“Hopefully if we all play then we’ll be able to stretch Adelaide’s defence with our height.
“But that’s a question for Brad.”
Daw looks the most likely to miss out, having played only eight games this year.
Skipper Andrew Swallow publicly backed Petrie to keep his place in the side and deliver in finals, which suggests the 33-year-old is unlikely to be dropped despite much speculation.
“I know that my form in finals over the last two years has been as good as anybody in our team,” Petrie said.
“I know Brad will be aware of that as well.”
The Kangaroos are considered a long shot to defeat Adelaide, let alone do some serious damage in September.
Most bookmakers rank them $101 outsiders to win the flag.
“Nobody is going to back us but don’t count out an underdog,” Petrie said.
“We’re playing in Adelaide. There will be 55,000 there at Adelaide Oval which will be a great atmosphere.
“Our form over there has been ok. It doesn’t hold any fears but certainly we’re respectful of what they produce at home.”
-AAP
