Kangaroo hopes go up a rung

THE only way is up for Kangaroos and they will have the added bonus of an Intrust Super Cup star as they seek to climb off the bottom of the CDRL ladder against Atherton tomorrow.

Despite assurances from Pride coach Ty Williams a fortnight ago he was aligned with Edmonton Storm, Khan Ahwang (below) will play fullback for Ben Laity’s side after training at Vico Oval this week.

After a promising start to the season, Roos have lost their past five on the bounce but play the first of four consecutive home games tomorrow.

Laity took the heat off his players, suggesting he was partially to blame for their ladder position.

“It’s a bit my fault. I’ve been trying to find the right combinations and changing it up rather than sticking with some blokes,” he said.

“We’ve had a few weekends off but we’ve still spent some time together as a group and they’re feeling really good and confident they can play well.”

While a number of Pride under-20s will be available for this round, Laity will resist too much tinkering with his side, only bringing in Isaiah Pau to play alongside his brother Sam.

Tully are one of the big winners of the return of the young talents going into a home clash tonight against Mareeba.

The Tigers have Jack Campagnolo back at No. 7, Johann Turner in the back row and even Brad Spicer could make a shock return despite what was thought to be a season-ending injury in the under-20s.

Kienan Grogan-Hayes won’t be lining up but is expected to be released to the Gladiators after this game.