THE Gloucester Cockies begin their tilt for a maiden premiership title against fierce rivals the Wallamba Bulls in the opening round of the Lower Mid North Coast Rugby competition in Gloucester this Saturday.
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The Cockies have home ground advantage and will be keen to avenge a heartbreaking loss against the Bulls in last year’s minor semi final when the Gloucester side had a penalty kick waved away on the siren.
The Gloucester side has recruited well in the off-season with prop Andrew Coombe boosting the Cockies strong forward stocks while backs Luke Keen and Ben Knight will add starch to a backline brimming with talent and speed.
Youngsters Ryan Hennessey, Ryan Yates and Ethan Hamilton have been strong in pre-season training while the retirement of club stalwart Dennis Wamsley has been a blow.
Last year’s Most Improved Player Kenneth Wamsley is also likely to miss the first few matches after suffering a debilitating illness in the off season.
Coach Steve Parkin has his troops in good shape heading into the season, which will see the Lower Mid North Coast competition expand from six teams to seven.
The Cockies face newcomers the Wauchope Thunder in round four.
This Saturday’s match against the Bulls kicks off at Gloucester’s number one oval at 3pm. Full bar and canteen facilities will be available.