COROWA-Rutherglen will be without coach Bryce Campbell for its opening round encounter against Lavington at the John Foord Oval on Saturday.
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Campbell injured his hamstring in the Roos’ final pre-season hit-out against Wodonga last week and could face an indefinite period on the sidelines.
Last year’s elimination finalists are otherwise expected to be close to full strength, with prized recruits Sam Carpenter, Lachie Longmire and Lee Schmidt expected to be named.
Midfielder James Brain will also play after recovering from a knee injury that restricted him to only three matches last season.
Star Roos forward Luke Gestier said Campbell wouldn’t be risked but would make a return within the next fortnight.
“Bryce won’t play this week,” Gestier said, “We will definitely look to get him back next week or the week after.
“Otherwise we will be close to full strength with our recruits Sam Carpenter and Lee Schmidt raring to go.
“James Brain will also be like a recruit after missing most of last year with a knee injury.
“They have been flying at training in the pre-season work and will give us a massive boost.”
The Roos face a daunting early draw against Lavington, Albury, Wangaratta Rovers and Yarrawonga and have already lost wingman Hayden Filliponi to a knee reconstruction.
