AFL CAIRNS: Croc Kelly has simple explanation for white-hot form
Published Friday 19 August 2016
PORT Douglas defender Declan Kelly has a simple explanation for his white-hot form of late. The Crocs are on a 14-match unbroken run and Kelly is enjoying a streak of his own having featured in the best for the past seven weeks.
“I've been going ok but its pretty easy for us defenders with our midfield so dominant and drying up the supply,” he said ahead the clash with Centrals Trinity Beach tomorrow.
Kelly was at his dominant best in the Crocs second half blitz of Cairns Saints last week and will pose problems again for the Bulldogs.
He credits his form to the continuity the Port Douglas defence has been able to generate this season. Between Wes Glass, Jonathan Hobbs and himself they’ve been virtually impenetrable.
“We have basically had the same back six for the whole year, which makes a huge difference,” he said.
“It gives you confidence to take a few extra risks because if you make a run then you know the guys are going to cover each other.
“I’ve always tried to be as consistent as I can but I think the depth in our backline has given me a bit more freedom. It’s a pretty enjoyable place to play footy at the moment."
Port Douglas will take on Centrals Trinity Beach at Crathern Park with spearhead Kye Chapple just two goals away from his 100th for the season. Kelly said while the team was conscious of their captain’s imminent ton, it was not a focus heading into the match.
“We try to make it business as usual and not put too much focus on it, but Kye is that good it won’t worry him,” Kelly said.
“I’ve got no doubt he’ll get the ton tomorrow and he can move forward and get it out of the way."
Midfielder Zach Gubbins has recovered from an eye injury and will line-up against the Bulldogs. Kelly said it was important for the Crocs to keep their momentum heading into the finals series, in which Centrals Trinity Beach will feature.
"We’ve had a couple of occasions against the Saints and the Cutters where we’ve been tested but we’ve been able to pull away and win by big margins,” he said.
“That gives you confidence and just shows when we are all on the same page we’re a pretty good footy side.”
AFL CAIRNS - ROUND 19:
Saturday 20 August - 3pm
Centrals Trinity Beach v Port Douglas Crocs
Crathern Park, Cairns.
SELECTED TEAMS:
