North Albany face five-day break ahead of trip to McLean Park to face Denmark-Walpole in round two of season

North Albany coach Brad Bootmsa has criticised the Great Southern Football League fixturing with his side having only five days to prepare for their round two clash. The Kangas are coming off a 33-point loss to Railways in the special Anzac Day match on Monday and face Denmark-Walpole at McLean Oval on Saturday in a rare five-day turnaround. “I’m not really happy with the league in terms of fixtures because we started our season in round one with the Anzac game and are playing again on Saturday,” Bootsma said. “I think it’s a bit harsh because we played the reigning premiers for our first game on Monday and Denmark played their game on Saturday. “We’ve had a much shorter break which I think isn’t great, I would have thought that all the fixtures should have been played on the Sunday this weekend.” “It is what it is though, our players shouldn’t lose any fitness, it’s just more about recovery for us. “I just think the league needs to change it in future seasons.” Bootsma is expecting a tight contest with the Magpies. “We won’t be taking Denmark lightly, sometimes a change in personnel like they’ve had can actually help a team for the better,” he said. “I know Denmark were reasonably competitive on the weekend and I think it will be a really good game. “I think we’re actually pretty equal to be honest and it will come down to who uses the ball better and doesn’t turn it over. “For us, this weekend is another opportunity to get some more respect back for our side in the competition.” Bootsma said there were a few key players in line to return for the Kangas. “Alec Haskins should come back in and Mitch Lenegan is also coming out of isolation on Friday so he’s a chance,” he said. “Graham Ross also returns on Friday and we’re hopeful he will be able to make the team. “All these guys are great players but the main thing they give us is really good leadership which is so important.” Young star Lucas Ravenhill made a big impact in his first league outing for the Kangas, kicking five goals in a stunning debut. He is among a host of youngsters that Bootsma has put his faith in this year. The Magpies fought hard against a strong Albany outfit in the opening round of the season but went down by 42 points in the end. On Saturday the Magpies reserves side were forced to forfeit their game, with several colts and reserves going up to play league. Two of the winning sides from round one will play in a Retravision Stadium derby as Royals and the Sharks do battle in the other Saturday fixture. Mt Barker were left to rue poor kicking in front of goal last week and will face a tough task against the reigning premiers at Tigerland in the sole Sunday game.