There is a perfectly valid reason why Port Douglas Crocs coach Andy Viola remains calm despite the loss of two key players ahead of this side’s blockbuster clash with the Manunda Hawks tomorrow. The Crocs will be without top-line recruits Relton Roberts and Brendon Bading for the top-of-the-table contest, returning to Darwin because of a death in the family.
Viola said he expected the pair’s former NTFL Wanderers teammate David Kruse, who stepped out in the Crocs guernsey for the first time last week, to stamp his mark as one of the most exciting young talents in Cairns AFL. The 19-year-old was expected to have been picked up by an AFL side, after attending the draft camp last year. He was overlooked, but the athletic defender has opted for a fresh start in a bid to recapture his best form, leaving Wanderers and NEAFL side Northern Territory Thunder for the Crocs.
The athletic defender last played for the Thunder seniors against the Gold Coast Suns reserves in April. Viola said Kruse showed glimpses of what he can offer in last week’s 79-point demolition of the South Cairns Cutters.
“He covers ground well and he will no doubt be a great asset to the team,” he said. “He will probably play on the half back flank to utilise his run and carry.”
Kruse will lock horns with his uncle, Hawks legend and assistant reserves coach Gabby Weetra.
Courtesy of The Cairns Post.
Last Modified on 03/06/2011 10:13