ALBURY is well on the way to shoring up its list for next season with almost three-quarters of its senior side committed for 2018.
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In an ominous sign for rival clubs trying to catch the reigning premier, the Tigers have locked away a host of stars including Brayden O’Hara, Dean Polo, Elliott Powell, Michael Duncan and Sam Schulz.
While co-coach Shaun Daly said the club is focused on the finals, he said it was important to have plans in place with Wangaratta leading a chasing pack.
“It’s been fantastic getting early commitments from a lot of players,” Daly said.
“Players who have been around the club for a while are staying on and a lot of younger players are on board as well.
“It just means we can focus on the finals now without the distractions.”
Daly and Chris Hyde will co-coach Albury next season with Hyde set to extend his glittering playing career by another 12 months.
Despite previously considering retirement, the former Richmond player is one of the favourites for the Morris medal and is looking forward to returning to the coaching box.
Outgoing coach Joel Mackie told The Border Mail last week he would be staying on as a player at Albury Sportsground.
Other key players to commit include Oliver McEwan, Ben Dower, Brady Morton, Alex Jones, James Grills and Luke Daly.
Meanwhile, Wodonga Raiders coach Daryn Cresswell said star playmaker Brodie Filo is on track to return from injury early in the finals.
Filo broke his jaw in a clash with Schulz at Birallee Park last month.
“He’s a big chance of playing in the first final,” Cresswell said.
“Worst case scenario is the second week.
“We’re really happy with how he’s coming along.”