Tiger hunt on
THE Townsville Blackhawks are adamant Cyclone Debbie will not dampen their preparations for Saturday’s Intrust Super Cup home clash against Easts Tigers.
It’s a wait and see scenario for the Blackhawks as they contemplate their lead- in schedule for Saturday’s game, which comes after last weekend’s 18- 6 loss to the Benji Marshall inspired Redcliffe Dolphins.
The Blackhawks remain on top of the ISC ladder, sharing a 3- 1 win- loss record with Norths Devils, Redcliffe, Wynnum- Manly and PNG, but a superior for and against record keeps them in front.
Blackhawks coach Kristian Woolf says his team’s training is likely to be affected, but believes all systems remain in place ahead of what is likely to be another running battle with Easts.
The Blackhawks and Tigers have formed one of the ISC’s most entertaining rivalries in recent years, some games resulting in suspensions on both sides.
“We can’t see there being any issues with the game this stage,” Woolf said.
“With the way things have been in Townsville I think there’ll be no reason why we can’t play.
“The only impact it will have is on our training, and even then it wouldn’t have too much of an impact. To be honest it’s not a bad thing to have a bit of a freshen up week.
“We’re about to get past that first block of games and we were planning on having freshen up days next week, so it’s business as usual as far as we’re concerned.”
Cowboys contracted forward Corey Jensen will become available for Saturday’s clash after completing his onegame suspension, and Sam Hoare could also be a inclusion given that Jason Taumalolo returns from suspension for Friday’s NRL game against South Sydney.
There were no injuries to emerge from last weekend’s grinding game, but Woolf expects another tough hitout against the Tigers.
“Easts are very physical, very aggressive and they like to push the boundaries,” he said.
Easts have enjoyed a winning run of form during the last fortnight, beating premiership favourites Redcliffe 18- 10 before thumping the Northern Pride last weekend 42- 12. at
BLACKHAKWS DOLPHINS
Included in the Tigers outfit is former Blackhawks winger Conor Carey, who helped cover the club’s growing injury list last season, and former Cowboys under- 20s player Jack Svendsen. Saturday’s game at Jack Manski Oval is scheduled to kick off at 4pm.