Cougars embrace Bombers challenge
AUSSIE RULES: They’ve spent a year on the sidelines, and now University will be thrust straight back into the big time.
The Cougars face an almighty task in their return to the Allieds Cup this weekend, hosting defending premiers South Toowoomba in round one action at USQ.
While some would look for an easier path back into the rigours of competition, new University coach Geoff Dunning said his squad is up to the task.
“We didn’t have any practice matches leading into the season, just a few games among ourselves,” Dunning said.
“We’re going in pretty confident. We’ve got a few out, but because we’ve got such a deep list we’ll be able to fill the gaps.”
Dunning said he is excited to work with this group of players as they look to return to the summit of the league after their last title in 2019.
“We’ve got a great list and we haven’t lost any players, they’ve all hung around,” he said.
“Half of our list are 20year-old players that have experienced those premierships, so it’s excellent to have that youth that will stay around for ages.”
With youth on their side, Dunning believes his team will have the legs to trouble opposition sides throughout the season.
“We’re definitely a fit side,” he said.
“We haven’t got the big bodies that some others do, but we can run, and they’ll have to try and keep up with us.
“Our leadership group is strong as well. The culture here is something that has really impressed me.”
New to the club this season, Dunning brings a wealth of experience from leagues across Australia.
“I’ve settled in well and been here for about a year,” he said.
“I finished playing in the early 2000s. I was a bit of a journeyman and played in Darwin, Cairns and at a few clubs in Brisbane. “It’s been a long journey, but I love it.”
AFL DARLING DOWNS FIXTURES
MEN: Toowoomba vs Goondiwindi at Rockville Oval; University vs South Toowoomba at USQ; Warwick vs South Burnett at WCU Oval. Games at 2.30pm Saturday
WOMEN: Dalby vs South Burnett at Dalby; Toowoomba vs Goondiwindi at Rockville Oval; University vs South Toowoomba at USQ. Games at 12.30pm Saturday