Glasgow in sight

by admin on December 7, 2013

‘Locals’ Matthew Flapper and Sam Shannahan lead a strong 5-person Victorian representation at the upcoming international in Ocean grove this week as Meagan Rooth from the Geelong Advertiser reports Ocean Grove will double as a Commonwealth Games training ground next week when it hosts an inter-national friendly.
Australia and Malaysia will go head-to-head over three days, starting Tuesday.
Matt Flapper, of Ocean Grove, and Sam Shannahan, of Lara, lead the Victorian contingent in the host team.
The local pair are still in the mix to represent the country at next year’s Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, as the Australian team has not yet been confirmed.
Their performances next week will be closely followed by selectors.
‘‘Every time you wear the green and gold you want to impress,’’ Flapper said.
‘‘I want to put my best foot forward.’’
Flapper, 30, said there was no bigger dream than to contest the Commonwealth Games.
‘‘It’s the pinnacle of our sport,’’ he said. ‘‘It’s the highest possible level we can play.
‘‘I don’t think there would be anything better.’’
Shannahan, 23, is not in the Jackaroos’ squad for games consideration but is on the extended women’s list.
Six current world champions — Mark Casey (QLD), Aron Sherriff (NSW), Brett Wilkie (QLD), Wayne Ruediger (SA), Lynsey Clarke (QLD) and Kelsey Cottrell (NSW) — will also be at the Bellarine Peninsula venue.
Other Victorians playing for Australia next week are Commonwealth Games bronze medallist Barrie Lester, Carla Odgers and Dylan Fisher.
Caption: Matt Flapper and Sam Shannahan pose for the cameras ahead of Tuesday’s opening day of the international friendly against Malaysia.