YOUNGSTER Cassidy Veitch looks certain to retain his place in the Taree first grade side for tomorrow’s important Football Mid North Coast Premier League clash against in-form Port United at Omaru Park.
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Veitch made his first grade debut in Taree’s 1-0 win over Wauchope last week, where the left back’s performance was good enough to earn him the players’ player award.
“I’d expect him to stay in first grade this week after his game against Wauchope,’’ Taree coach Rod Bartley said.
The victory over Wauchope snapped Taree out of a slump, however, Bartley agreed tomorrow’s opponent will be a much tougher proposition than the league’s wooden spoon favourites.
United currently sits in third place, a point ahead of the Wildcats. They’re also coming into the match on the strength of a comprehensive 8-1 result over Port Saints.
“United can probably wrap up third place if they beat us,’’ Bartley said.
However, he said the Wildcats won’t carry any mental scars from the last time the sides met when United won 7-0 in a mid-week game played on a wet field at Port Macquarie.
“United played well, but not much went right for us that night,’’ Bartley said.
He added that United have had an exhausting schedule in the last fortnight with a catch-up game as well as scheduled fixtures. They also had four players involved in the Northern side for Tuesday night’s clash against Newcastle Jets.
“They might be getting a bit fatigued,’’ Bartley said.
“That can only help us.’’
Two of Taree’s three Southern representatives from the Jets clash will be backing up tomorrow. Keeper Curtis Jones and Lucas Mepham will be right, however, Jackson Witts will sit out the game because of suspension. Bartley said Brendan Sheppard is likely to come into side in Witts’ place.
Skipper Jordan Howard is making a steady recovery from a hamstring injury but Bartley estimates he’s still three weeks from returning.
It would appear that United, Taree, Kempsey Saints and Camden Haven will battle for last three spots in the final five, with Wallis Lake and Macleay Valley assured of berths. The Wildcats tackle Tuncurry-Forster next week before meeting Wallis Lake.
“It's going to be a big few weeks,’’ Bartley said.
Taree has 22 points, three clear of Camden Haven and Kempsey Saints.
In other round 14 matches this weekend Camden Haven tackle unbeaten competition leaders Wallis Lake at Laurieton while Macleay Rangers are at home to Wauchope.
Port Saints will meet Tuncurry-Forster. Kempsey Saints have the bye.
