BROCKLESBY-Burrumbuttock look well positioned for a crack at back-to-back premierships after adding further firepower to their line-up.
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By picking up Kylin Morey and Nick Brockley, it gives us the opportunity to use someone like Dean Murphy in the midfield or on a wing.
- Luke Brauer
On top of North Albury forward Kylin Morey, the Saints have picked up Wahgunyah sharpshooter Nick Brockley and Murray Magpies pair David Oates and Ryan Johnson.
Brockley has kicked 65, 77, 51 and 25 goals in the past four Tallangatta league seasons.
Co-coach Luke Brauer said Brocklesby-Burrumbuttock had added flexibility and depth to their list.
“It’s good to lock a few away early,” Brauer said.
“We probably go deeper now and have the flexibility to push players forward instead of off the bench.
“By picking up Kylin Morey and Nick Brockley, it gives us the opportunity to use someone like Dean Murphy in the midfield or on a wing.
“Nick Brockley is a forward predominantly but he will spend time in the midfield for us.”
Brockley, Morey, new co-coach Jarrod Hillary, Murphy and Joel Hartley will give Brock-Burrum a plethora of marking options in attack.
Johnson is the brother of Saint defender Liam and is expected to slot into the backline, while Oates will replace the retired Trent Storey in the ruck.
“I rate ‘DJ’ (Oates) as one of the best ruckmen in the league,” Brauer said.
“He’s as good on the ground as he is in the air.
“It’s hard to get that in a ruckman.
“Ryan is going to be very good in the backline as well so we think we are in pretty good shape.”
In an ominous sign for rival clubs, Brauer said Storey is the only confirmed departure.
“A couple of our present players have signed but are waiting on employment,” he said.
“It’s a matter of waiting until January.
“Otherwise, we have everyone on board except for ‘Stores’ who went out in a great way.”
Henty remains uncertain about the playing future of its Canberra connection.
Roy Jaques, Michael Aitchison, Ryan Quade and Matt Liddle are yet to decide whether they will return to the Swampies.
Star midfielder Jarrad Farwell is on the recruiting radar of several clubs, while Simon Hillier has taken over as coach of Mitta United.
CDHBU is eager to build on their finals berth this season.
The Power has signed defender Mick Collins and is believed to be circling several Corowa-Rutherglen players.
Lockhart has also been active over the past month with North Albury speedster Jordan Harrington headlining its list of recruits.
Meanwhile, Hume league clubs have been given a draft of next year’s draw for discussion.
It will be finalised in the next few weeks.