THERE’S an age-old theory in sport that it’s much harder to defend a premiership than it is to win a first one.
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Clyde United got the first part of that challenge out of the way this time last year when it beat Bodalla to the Eurobodalla Football All Age men’s crown at Captain Oldrey Park.
Now comes the hard part.
Matt Jackson’s United side will need to repeat that effort this Sunday when it takes on Bodalla for the second grand final in a row.
However, he didn’t need reminding about just how difficult the task will be.
“The lads are very excited at the thought of back-to-back premierships, but we know we have to want it more; to earn it,” Jackson said yesterday.
“We need a good start in order to control the game, but it won’t be easy because they won’t give us an inch.
“I’d like to congratulate Bodalla for making the final because they have been our biggest challengers all year and they always seem to push us all the way.”
There won’t be any shortage of motivation for the Bulls, either.
Not only did they lose to United in the season decider last year, but Jackson’s men put them to the sword 7-1 a fortnight ago in the major semi-final.
With that in mind, Bodalla veteran Steve Benic said his side would head into this weekend’s clash as optimistic underdogs.
“We’re always hopeful because we always seem to come good at the end of the season,” he said.
“But Clyde is a good, skilful team and it’s going to be a hard game.
“Things always get a bit heated between the sides, and I’m sure that will happen on Sunday, but we really respect the way Clyde always shake hands after the match.”
Bodalla booked its spot in the grand final with a penalty shootout win over Broulee on Sunday.
And while a win is a win, Benic said the match should never have lasted that long.
“We pretty much dominated that match but we didn’t finish them off and that’s been a problem for us all year,” he said.
United and Bodalla have been the standout teams this season and both will head into the clash at near full strength.
But Jackson wants more than just a win, he wants to make a statement.
“You can’t just beat a team,” he said. “You have to leave a lasting impression in their minds so they never want to see you again.”
Clyde will also be out for glory in the All Age ladies grand final against Broulee.
For a full preview of the women's grand final, and to meet the Clyde United players, grab a copy of today's paper and turn to page 42!
