ROVERS United Bruck are desperate to avenge last year’s grand final loss, all-rounder Jacob Schonafinger says.
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Beaten by Yarrawonga-Mulwala in last season’s decider, United have added veteran Jon Shaw to the line-up as captain and coach after a stint with CAW Provincial club St Pats.
Schonafinger said Shaw’s appointment, combined with young guns such as Josh O’Donohue, would crucial to the club’s hopes this season.
“It was disappointing to fall at the final hurdle last season,” he said.
“But we’ve got a few new faces to try and blood into the A-Grade side that we’re really optimistic about.
“The core of the side is mostly the same, but Shaw will add plenty of experience with bat and ball, he can only strengthen our team.”
One of the most consistent sides in last year’s competition, Schonafinger said Shaw had been quick to ensure Rovers United Bruck wouldn’t be caught napping this season.
“The one thing he’s come in and said is that although we had a good season last time around, it means nothing this year,” he said.
“We can’t rest on our laurels, sides will be more aware of the strike power that we’ve got.
“One of the reasons we wanted to recruit someone like Jon was to bring an element of professionalism to the club.
“We were a good side last year, but all the little one-percenters Jon brings at training and the like will be important for us throughout this season.
The Rovers take on Benalla-Violet Town this weekend.
Elsewhere, Corowa host City Colts, Greta take on Yarrawonga-Mulwala, Ovens Valley take on Benalla Buhsrangers, and Delatite face the Wangaratta Magpies.