Brethren out to make a point

WITH their finals destiny assured, Brothers coach Sven Schaefer says tomorrow’s away clash against JCU Mariners is a chance to finally show they’re a true contender for the FNQ Rugby premiership.

The fourth-placed Brethren are already locked in to play Southside Crusaders in a knockout final next week but have yet to claim a major scalp this year, having lost all four of their matches to secondplaced Mariners and top-ofthe-table Barron Trinity Bulls.

With Southside knocking off the Bulls last weekend at Machans Beach, Brothers coach Sven Schaefer said it was time for his side to prove their post-season credentials.

“There’s no point getting to the finals if you can’t give JCU a good show,” Schaefer said.

“We’re resting a few players because we do have some with wear and tear.

“But the boys are working hard. The trick is not to take your foot off the gas against JCU.”

Prepping their game plan for the do-or-die clash with Crusaders, is part of their plan.

“That’s why this game is so important,” Schaefer said. “When we play Souths, they have a very good backline and runners in the forwards.

“We need to make sure they don’t get the ball, put them on the ground early.”

In the other matches Northern Beaches Mudcrabs take on the Bulls and Southside play Penrhyn Sharks. Both matches will be played at the Crab Pot. Port Douglas has the bye.