THE break for the June long weekend in Group Three Rugby League was just what Wingham captain-coach Danny Russell needed to fully recover from a nagging calf muscle injury.
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Russell will now be a sure starter for Sunday’s vital clash against Wauchope at the Wingham Sporting Complex. He was a late withdrawal from the side to play Taree City on May 19 and missed the subsequent games against Port City and Forster-Tuncurry but said earlier he was sure he would be fit to take the Blues. The Tigers lost two of the three matches in his absence.
“I’m right now,’’ Russell declared.
Russell will be the halfback against the steadily improving Blues. Wauchope scored a hard fought 22-20 win over Old Bar last start and Sunday’s game will determine outright second place.
The Tigers will be close to full strength for the contest. Fullback Matt Bridge also returns from an overseas holiday although prop Blake Fraser is in some doubt with a knee problem.
“If Blake’s out I’ll move Michael Rees to front row – he played most of last year there,’’ Russell said.
Russell’s return will enable Nick Beacham to return to the forwards.
Wauchope centre Beau White scored three tries against Old Bar and has reportedly been in great form this season. Russell expects Lonny Clarke and Brodie Myer to be his three quarter combination this week.
However, Russell says the forwards will be where the game will be won and lost. He’s sure he has to pack to counter the Blues.
Wingham won the first round match at Wauchope.
“I’m confident, but I know Wauchope’s improved since then,’’ Russell said.
“We’re looking forward to a hard match.’’
The Blues and the Tigers go into the match on 18 points.
“That’s one thing about this side, they’re getting better and better,’’ coach Anthony Boyd said after the recent win over Old Bar.
“I can’t fault their defensive structure and the way they’re working for one another.’’
Boyd said the Blues have picked up three outstanding backrowers, Liam Quinn, Jamie Tracey and Dylan Hemsley.
“We’ve got a very good bench as well,’’ he added.
“We don’t really lose anything when we bring them on.’’
Sharp shooting goal kicker Jayden Sargent proved the difference for the Blues against the Pirates and the Tigers won’t want to give him too many attempts in range.
“Goal kicking is an area we’ve worked on,’’ Boyd explained.
“Jayden has taken over there. He hasn’t got the biggest boot but he’s accurate.’’