Warwick Cowboys aim to rope in Valleys
RUGBY LEAGUE: The finals of the TRL are still months away, however tonight’s blockbuster in Warwick will have a distinct post-season feel.
The red-hot Cowboys play host to the unbeaten Valleys Roosters, as both teams aim to keep their devastating form intact.
During last week’s second half, the Cowboys stamped their authority on the TRL competition, launching a devastating passage of play, turning an eight-point deficit into a 20-point lead against Gatton at Cahill Park.
Coach Phil Economidis said his side’s game plan to work their sizeable forward pack around came up trumps.
“They were a much bigger pack, but to our blokes credit, we won the wrestle and ruck,” Economidis said.
“They had nothing left in the tank in the second half and our blokes went to another gear and were able to put them away.
“The game plan was to move them around, and our left edge was outstanding. Bloomfield, Joe (Fuimaono) and Declan (McLoughlin) ran riot, and our forwards laid the platform.”
Economidis said his side knew they were in for another battle tonight, however he backed his troops to apply their game plan and produce points against the league’s best defensive unit.
“Valleys are probably a more mobile team, and it will be a different game plan and challenge,” he said.
“We’ve identified a couple of players we’re going to go at, and hopefully that comes up trumps.
“Chown works off McGrady, and they have certainly been mentioned. We know they are the danger men and have to be shut down.
“I think we’ve got one of the best backlines at the competition when at full strength, and there are plenty of points in this team.”
The Cowboys are on the hunt for a new custodian, after fullback Craig Donn succumbed to injury against Gatton, who in turn replaced Mitch Watson who went down the previous week.
They will also be without winger Kai Etherington, with Brodie Quirk named on the wing.
The match will serve as a tribute to the late Jim Stevens, who tragically passed away last year.
Stevens was heavily involved in the development of the game across Warwick and the wider Darling Downs.