While Jeffery admitted he held doubts over the summer how his line-up would fare, the former NRL player said yesterday his faith had been restored ahead of Sunday’s opening round clash against Cootamundra at Greenfield Park.

The signing of Country players Andrew Smith and Levi Freeman and the return of the Seaton brothers had been crucial.

“I think we have ended up with a solid team,” Jeffery said,

“We looked like we were going to struggle there for a while when numbers were a bit low, but I think we have ended up in pretty good shape.

“You can’t do much better than pick up two Country players in ‘Smithy’ and Levi Freeman.

“The competition looks strong but I think we will be very competitive.”

Smith, who is originally from Leeton and has captained Coffs Harbour for the past two seasons, will slot into the biggest shoes in Group 9 by taking over from Weissel medallist Lou Goodwin at lock.

Queanbeyan Blues recruit Freeman will slot into the second row in place of Jake Grace.

Jeffery said Cootamundra would present a huge first-up assignment.

“They are going to be a quality team,” he said.

“Cootamundra has probably lacked consistency but I think ‘Byrnesy’ (Aaron Byrne) has them on the right track.

“They have picked up a couple of good players as well in Shannon Rupapere and Joel Maramo and will be really hard to beat first-up.”

Albury faces a daunting start to its quest for four successive premierships, with only two home matches in the opening seven rounds.

While Jeffery said the draw wasn’t ideal, he was hoping it proved to be a blessing in disguise.

“It’s probably not ideal, but if we start well it’s going to be good for us late in the season,” he said.

“We are just looking forward to Cootamundra on Sunday.

“The boys are ready to go.”

Albury has an injury cloud hanging over half-back Cameron Breust after he rolled his ankle last week.