The Inverell Saints start their premiership defense this Saturday at home to the Muswellbrook Cats. It will be the first game of the new season with a vastly different side that held aloft the premiership cup some 6 months ago.
The Saints have seen many new faces come to the club and even more head away. The losses of Corey Wheeler, Shaun Mansbridge, Mick Viney, Jason Gobbert and Dick Gleeson have left a huge hole in the Saints playing group but as always the Saints are determined to put up a strong fight in 2011.
This weekend will see potentially 7 new faces make their TAFL debut for the Saints. Rugby convert Russell Brien has impressed throughout the pre season, as has Matt Lane who will surely add some dash through the midfield. The Saints also look set to debut young gun Hamish Bird who has taken to the Sherrin very quickly as have locals Paul Rice and Brendan Simpson. The Saints are also hoping Vicotrian import Charlie McShane will be cleared for his Inverell debut this weekend.
Captain Chris Whitton will once again lead the side into battle, supported by Vice Captain Justin Pay who will shoulder the load in the ruck. Club stalwart Gary Hadland will be called upon to provide some leadership, and veterans such as Matt Harrison and Peter Dunlop will once again be important for the Saints lineup.
The Cats have struggled in recent seasons, but by all reports look to be a major force in the competition this year. They play tough footy, and the Saints will need every one of the 22 to be on top of their games in order to get the win.
The first bounce is at 2pm and this match should be a great start to season 2011.
Last Modified on 27/04/2011 18:52