ALBURY Thunder front-rower Andrew Cowhan has warned rival teams not to underestimate the reigning West Wyalong Knockout champion this weekend.
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Although Ben Jeffery will take a new-look combination to defend its crown, Cowhan said yesterday there was still enough fire and class in the line-up to create some carnage in the 16-team competition.
“It’s a new-look team but we’re looking forward to it,” Cowhan said.
“The boys are keen to get out there and play after all the training.
“Like everyone, we’re going to West Wyalong to win it.”
The Thunder will start its title defence against Yenda at 9.50pm tonight, with the winner to play Junee or Leeton in the quarter-finals tomorrow.
Cowhan is one of Albury’s most experienced players at 23 following the departures of Willie Heta, Lou Goodwin, Mitch Davis and Jake Grace.
But the arrival of recruits like Coffs Harbour captain Andrew Smith has the big forward excited.
“He looks really good at training,” he said.
“He’s a big boy and it will be good playing alongside him.
“It’s going to be different with such a young side and it could take a while for us to gel together, but everyone is fit and really keen.”
After several years of domination by Group 9 powerhouses Albury and Southcity, Cowhan believed this year’s knockout was wide open.
“It’s always hard to say,” he said. “Orange CYMS will be good and Forbes has picked up some good players like “Gracey” (Jake Grace).”
Teams will play two 20-min- ute games for a shot at the cup — and $1500 in prizemoney.
The final will be played at 8.15pm tomorrow.