COROWA-Rutherglen coach Adrian Pavese admits having to abandon today’s practice match against Scoresby isn’t ideal preparation for round one.
The Roos have been left in the lurch after the Melbourne-based club had to withdraw from its scheduled match at John Foord Oval.
Scoresby wanted to hold its pre-season camp on the Border but couldn’t find accommodation and pulled out.
Pavese said the Roos — who would play an intra-club match instead — were disappointed but weren’t concerned about being underdone for their first-round showdown against Wodonga on Easter Saturday.
“It’s not ideal, obviously,” Pavese said.
“Intra-clubs aren’t as intense as a proper match but unfortunately they had to withdraw.
“We couldn’t get a replacement.
“But that’s the card we’ve been dealt —we’ll make good of what we can.”
Pavese, in his first year as coach, said he was happy with the club’s pre-season.
He said the Roos would have no excuses against the Bulldogs in round one.
“The boys are hungry and training well,” he said.
“We’ve just got to worry now about getting ready for Wodonga.
“Everyone is as fit as a bull.
“We’ve got no injuries and everyone is ready to go.
“There’s no excuses.”
The Bulldogs, meanwhile, host reigning Goulburn Valley league premier Tatura at John Flower Oval this afternoon.
Skipper Sam Maher will play his first game for the year, along with a dozen other senior regulars and coach Ben Hollands is upbeat.
“Tatura’s obviously looking a good side in their competition again this year and it will be a good test for the boys,” he said.
The Bulldogs’ Hall of Fame night will be held at the SS & A in Albury tonight.