SEASON PREVIEW:
SEAN TEUMA RATES EACH SIDE’S CHANCES IN THE TRL
DALBY DIEHARDS
LAST YEAR
13 wins, 3 loses, Premiers
THE YEAR AHEAD
DESPITE a few injuries during the middle part of the year, Dalby were a different animal in the business end of 2017, as they put their rivals to the sword when it counted.
Coach Derek Brady makes the transition from assistant to the head coaching role, and his prior knowledge of the team will only benefit them as they look to go back-to-back.
“Last year we had a really good pre-season. We worked really hard and focused on fitness from late November,” Brady said.
“We went through the first few rounds undefeated, lost a few, as well as players to injury, then had everyone back on deck towards the end of the season.
“The key to last year was our fitness and working for each other.”
He said his players knew they would have a target on their back, but backed his troops to respond.
“We’ve got to have a change in attitude. Everyone wants to knock us off. Individuals will have to step up their roles,” he said.
“We’re down a few players who played critical roles last year, so we need a couple of the younger guys to step up to a senior role.
“I’m hoping the younger guys with another year of experience, will take their game to a different level.”
PLAYER TO WATCH
“I’m expecting big things from Chris Wilkes. He’s been around for a number of years, and will be taking a different role in the front row this year. His trial performances have been good, he trains hard, and is one to watch out for,” Brady said.
VERDICT
The loss of captain Colin Green, as well as players like Eli Wickham will hurt.
In saying that a lot of the spine and structures will remain, and on that basis alone, you have to respect the Diehards. PREDICTED FINISH
4th