RUGBY’S early-season battle for premiership favouritism between Wagga City and the Steamers has become a casualty of injuries and Anzac Day re-scheduling.
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Both sides are expected to be under-strength for tonight’s clash in Wagga.
The undefeated Steamers will be missing captain Richard Manion, Liam Krautz and Arran Macdougall for the rare Friday night fixture.
Coach Mick Raynes is also a victim of friendly fire from the rescheduling in lieu of Anzac Day.
City too have problems with four players facing fitness tests at last night’s training.
Raynes said the challenge might just provide the “perfect storm” for the Steamers.
Former captain Nathan Bright will step in to the coaching role tonight, Ryan Schischka will take over the captaincy.
“It’s under lights, there is the Anzac tradition, a stand-in coach, new captain and a chance for these boys to prove themselves against another unbeaten side,” he said.
“As well as their rugby ability those three boys are probably among the loudest voices on the field.
“Someone is going to have to lift for us — take on that leadership role.”
City has started the season with a win over rival Wagga club CSU and an 18-18 draw with the much improved Leeton last weekend.
They have powerhouse No. 8 Rambo Laagali driving the forwards and English pair James Curgenven and Hamish Wrafter in the backs.
Raynes is still confident the Steamers have the personnel to match it with City.
“They should be more worried about us — Blake Le Cornu comes into fly-half for Manion after missing last week, veteran Jean Laurent Pozzobon will replace Macdougall in the front row and we have shuffled the forwards to allow English recruit Dave Coyle a run at flanker and Dan Cottrell, who was outstanding in the first game of the year, comes back into his spot,” he said.
“Schischka was an obvious choice to step up as captain — like Nathan Bright he is a great role model, light of frame but more than makes up for that with his work rate and bravery.
“Bright will step in as coach due largely to assistant Troy Tatchell being the reserve grade playing coach and he just couldn’t do both when we are so light on for numbers.
“First grade starts at 7.45pm at the Connolley Rugby Complex, reserves kick-off at 6.30pm and women’s seven a side from 6pm.
