GNFL round 13 preview: Momentum driving Railways as they face big Towns test

Last year’s grand finalists found themselves outside the top four coming into the tail end of the season, but a crucial win last week has Railways back in the race and they face a massive test this week against Towns.

The Blues found themselves outside the top four at the league bye and in danger of falling a game behind.

However, the side rallied to get up over Brigades last round with a 7.5 (47) to 5.6 (36) win to put them back in the upper echelon.

A result that Blues coach John Reynolds said was crucial for their season.

“That was definitely a must win for us, obviously with ladder position and building into the back end of the year, it was quite important,” he said.

“It was a mentality aspect and being able to go out there as a team and want to play…we brought the intent and excitement at training … it really showed and pushed on.”

During the win, Railways managed to find scoring with controlled possessions and kicking chains down the wing, reflective of how the squad had been approaching training.

“It was about role playing and structure, making sure we stick to that and trust the system that we’re working for…I think our skills picked up another level and those things showed on the ground,” Reynolds said.

“Instead of blazing away, we really want to try and hit the target … I think we were really good as a team all around the ground.”

The team has little time to rest, with their clash this Saturday against Towns at Wonthella Oval having big repercussions for the ladder.

“This week is probably the most important challenge for us, making sure that we get over the line,” Reynolds said.

“We know Towns play different style to what Brigades do and same with Northampton and Valley.

“We need to put everything together behind the scenes to make sure that we hit the ground running come Saturday.”

In the first game between the two sides, Towns had Railways number on the day – winning by 42 points.

The Blues expect it to be a different story this time around.

“I think last time we got we got a little bit stuck sucked in around, trying to be a little bit more defensive around their style and we didn’t get a good start and it put us on the backfoot,” Reynolds said.

“By all means, what we’ll be doing is trying to come out and hit the ground running, try and get some score on the board and play some good footy.”

Like most coaches around the league, Reynolds said the biggest challenge had been fielding their best side.

The coach believes they are still yet to see their best 22 hit the field.

“I definitely don’t want to use it as an excuse because I know, majority of the teams are going through something similar,” he said.

“What it does mean is that you know, we can be extremely damaging and winning games when we’re not at our absolute best. So it’ll be very exciting to see that best 22 on the park if we get that opportunity.”

GBSC Sports Park will see another massive contest take place, with top four sides Brigades and Northampton going head-to-head.

It’s the third match between the two contenders this season, with the sides split with one win a piece.

An undefeated Chapman Valley squad travel to take on the winless Mullewa.