THERE'S been some mixed news for Manning Ratz going into the final round of the Lower North Coast Rugby Union competition on Saturday.
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Stand-in captain Ricky Campbell is in a sling after damaging his collarbone in last weekend's 55-29 win over Wallamba. Campbell will miss Saturday's clash against Old Bar at Old Bar and remains in doubt for the major semi-final at Taree Rugby Park on Saturday September 19 against either Wallamba or Wauchope Thunder.
However, regular captain and No 8 Sam Hartnett has resumed training and is now a chance to play in the major semi-final. It appeared Hartnett's season was shot when he fractured his knee cap in the clash against Barbarian Hogs on Saturday July 18. However, he's made a quicker-than-expected recovery.
"Sam's been running pretty well at training and he's resumed doing some contact work. We'll see how he trains next week before we decide if he's right for the major semi,'' Ratz coach Jake Maurirere said.
He added Hartnett might even play against the Clams.
"If we're short he might sit on the bench,'' he said.
In a further boost for the Ratz utility player Tom Burley is also back training after recovering from a knee injury. Burley, a rugby rookie this year, showed promise in early games one the wing and then as a flanker before sustaining the injury.
However, goal kicking centre Bruwyn Tisdell has aggravated a hamstring injury at training and he's also in doubt for the finals series.
"We'll see if Bruwyn can stretch out at training next week but it's not looking too good at the moment,'' Maurirere said.
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Maurirere said the Ratz will probably rest a couple of players this weekend apart from those on the injured list.
'It'll be a good time to give some of our bench players a bit more time on the field,'' Maurirere said.
The Ratz secured the minor premiership and the home game for the major semi-final when thumping Wallamba in an impressive performance last weekend - Campbell's injury being the only downside.
Campbell missed last year's grand final due to suspension.
"I hope he isn't forced to miss this season's semi-finals because of injury,'' Maurirere said.
It's been a difficult year for the battling Clams and the side has yet to record a win, although they've met all commitments in the men's and women's competitions.
In other games this weekend Barbarian Hogs meet Wauchope Thunder while Wallamba Bulls clash with Gloucester Cockies.
