The Murray Bombers are chasing a remarkable 15th straight win, and their cause will be helped with the potential reintroduction of midfield maestro Jack McHale.
Victory to Echuca and a Mansfield defeat against Mooroopna could also see the Murray Bombers officially secure the minor premiership.
Looking back, Echuca’s 24.20 (164) to 1.2 (8) win over the Bears was built on the back of a variety of lopsided statistical counts.
Echuca went inside-50 on 74 occasions as opposed to Shepparton’s 9, and handsomely won the disposal count 406-225.
The Murray Bombers were best served by Dan Willis (31 disposals, 1 goal), Cooper Willoughby (5.4, 8 marks, 15 disposals), and the returning McHale who tallied 28 disposals.
Shepparton was forced to work hard in defence, but Bears’ legend Ted Lindon flew the flag to collect 28 disposals, seven spoils, and seven marks.
The Bears have four wins to their name, sitting in 9th, and while Echuca poses a big challenge to overcome Shepparton will be looking for an improved performance on its home ground.
Echuca vs Shepparton Bears (round 6)
406 Disposals 225
74 Inside-50s 9
105 Marks 39
39 Tackles 52
35 Forward-50 Marks 1
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