PREMIERSHIP winger Chris Seaton is confident Albury Thunder can continue their giant-killing run in Saturday’s first semi-final against Junee at Junee.
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After bringing down the Diesels, Gundagai and Young in their last three outings, Seaton said Thunder’s appetite for success was growing with each win.
Their chances have been further boosted by star Junee coach Matt Hands being sidelined through injury.
Hands will undergo surgery to repair his torn pectoral muscle which was hurt in the opening minutes of the second-half of last weekend’s qualifying final loss to Gundagai.
“The boys are getting better and better,” Seaton said.
“It’s been a bit of surprise as Dave (Cowhan) and I work away and we don’t get to training very often.
“The past four games have been great with everyone working in together and playing their roles in the side.”
While Seaton said Albury Thunder couldn’t afford to be distracted by the absence of Hands, he admitted it was a bonus.
Hands has been a solid performer in previous meetings with his ability to defend and attack vital to Junee’s chances.
“He pretty much steers Junee’s team around being the captain,” Seaton said.
“We know from experience that when we lose Ben Jeffery it’s detrimental to our side.
“He’s a quality player.
“They wouldn’t have him steering the side if he wasn’t.”
Junee has called up the experienced Jordan Walker to replace Hands in the critical five-eighth position.
The ledger stands at 1-1 between the sides this season.
Junee defeated Albury 38-32 at Greenfield Park on May 1 before Thunder stormed home to defeat the Diesels 34-18 at Junee on August 7.
“I think we can win,” Seaton said.
“We gave them a start last time we played but the last three weeks we have started games a lot better.”
Seaton was outstanding on a wing outside his brother, Mitch, against Young last weekend while Alex Jones provided some flare on the other side of the ground.
Thunder’s forwards are also back working in unison with Cowhan, Andrew Smith, Joe Silifau and Jon Huggett laying the foundations for their recent impressive victories.
Jeffery’s tussle with Junee ace Daniel Foley will also be pivotal.
The Thunder coach was best afield against Young and will look to enhance his reputation as the premier fullback in Group 9 by taking the honours.
The match will be played at Junee’s Loftus Oval due to the poor state of Laurie Daley Oval.
Hot premiership favourites Southcity should prove too strong for reigning premier Gundagai in the second semi-final at Wagga’s Harris Park on Sunday.
