KARINGAL and Pines have scored the recruiting coups of the MPNFL pre-season, snaring ex-AFL stars for their 2010 season campaigns.
Karingal added former Port Power and all-Australian ruckman Brendan Lade to its list, while the Pythons grabbed ex-Melbourne player Matthew Whelan.
Vastly different fortunes await several other clubs in Peninsula and Nepean Leagues as the 2010 season approaches.
@BT Sub Sport Gaz:PENINSULA LEAGUE
The Seaford juggernaut just keeps rolling along and, after dominating the last three seasons of Peninsula league football, the Tigers are aiming for a record fourth consecutive premiership in 2010 under incumbent coach Anthony Agius.
Last year’s runners-up Edithvale-Aspendale will be coached by Mark Alves but has had a major player exodus over the off-season. With the Sea Eagles out of the mix, leading the likely challengers will be the super-consistent Frankston YCW, again under club stalwart Tony Barry.
The 2009 preliminary finalists have recruited well adding a number of top-notch performers led by ex-Frankston Dolphins big man Ash Eames.
Another major player will be Mt Eliza, which has increased its goal-kicking power with the addition of classy Grant Masterson, however fellow 2009 finalist Bonbeach has lost experience and strength with the departure of Ben Holland, and could struggle this season.
Ladder prediction: Seaford, Frankston YCW, Mt Eliza, Chelsea, Karingal, Bonbeach, Langwarrin, Edithvale-Aspendale, Pines, Mornington.
@BT Sub Sport Gaz:NEPEAN LEAGUE
Sorrento was the red-hot favourite to take out last season’s premiership but was upset by Frankston in the grand final. Sharks coach and former St Kilda big man Troy Schwarze will be keen to set the record straight this year and will be assisted with the club retaining the majority of its list.
Frankston under MPNFL legend Tony Blackford will again be a threat, as will last season’s semi-finalists Dromana under inter-league star Damon Lawrence. Preliminary finalists Rye will again be a major player under former Richmond forward Stephen Ryan, after picking up several good recruits led by ex-Edithvale-Aspendale coach John Hynes.
The unknown quantity of 2010 is Pearcedale under new mentor Greg Siwes. The Panthers have had a rocky off-season but still look a threat with the addition of Frankston play maker Ricky Morris and former star forward Mathugh Vagg.
Ladder prediction: Sorrento, Frankston, Dromana, Rye, Pearcedale, Hastings, Rosebud, Red Hill, Tyabb, Crib Point, Somerville.
