From the sideline

THE importance of Monday’s 47th Battalion announcement cannot be underestimated.

Selectors would of thought long and hard about this side and I congratulate them on the way they gave every eligible player a chance.

The selectors have mixed experience with youth and gone for combinations.

The most important combination is the pairing of Jarred Lee and Matt Duggan. These two players have been the heart and soul of the competition and their experience will be invaluable.

The side is well balanced with selectors also going for QCup experience as well as players who have come back into the competition this season like, Mitch Koina, Ben Sullivan and Corey McGrady. These players will be a wonderful back up for our tried and tested.

Whilst we are on that subject, Dale Perkins is on the verge of his seventh campaign in the Clydesdales jersey and his experience will be needed. Ronnie David and current Queensland Rangers captain Jason Wardrop also add plenty of go-forward. Throw in Pittsworth’s Daniel York and the forward pack will not take a backward step.

By sheer weight of performances, TRL’s most inform player Dylan Chown forces his way into the team.

He and incumbent fullback Jackson will be a handful for their opposition. Alex Ambia, who is arguably TRL’s number one winger confirmed his spot after an excellent performance in a losing side on the weekend.

Oakey’s Josh Robinson is an excellent selection as he has played very well this season, especially in the Emus trial early in the season and it is no coincidence his Bears are also performing well.

At 37, Steve Franciscus has found a new lease of life since he has been playing for Dalby.

You can see it in his performances, but it will be his ability to motivate his team that is the key to the Clydesdales success. Quiet an amazing story for the former Papua New Guinean representative. He is just like a bottle of wine, he just gets better with age.

Have no fear, this tournament will be one for the ages. The home side will be vying to increase their numbers in the Central Crows team as they only had four players selected in last year’s side after winning the tournament.

Winning the 47th Battalion trophy at home is probably one of the most important campaigns our representative team have embarked on given the fact the Clydesdales have not played in front of their home town for a very long time.

I remember when on of our favourite sons, Greg Platz stood in front of a large audience a couple of years ago at a TRL presentation night inspiring players.

He spoke about, pride, sacrifice, honour and courage the jersey reflected. I have noticed an increase in players desire and heartbreak in aiming to wear the coveted jersey.

Thompson, McDonald and Steinohrt, just to name a few confirms its history. No more inspiration needed.