Albury Thunder back-rower Jon Huggett confident, despite poor start

The Border outfit is in last place for possibly the first time since emerging as a force in 2009.

Young hammered the home side by 44 points in the first round and Southcity followed that with a 62-12 caning last week.

It means the Thunder has already conceded 116 points and posted just 22.

It hits the road on Saturday where Dragons' favourite son and coach Josh McCrone will play his first game at home since leaving the rugby league town to forge a career in the NRL with Canberra and St George Illawarra.

The Dragons also produced a gritty effort in falling by only 10 points to premiers Gundagai, only adding to the Thunder's outsiders tag.

Huggett, who's one of the most experienced players at 30, knows the proud club has to show something.

"Oh yeah, we spoke about it a fair bit at training last night (Wednesday), we've got full confidence we'll win this week," he said earnestly.

"Obviously getting blown off the park's not the greatest start, we've made a few changes and hopefully it's a winning recipe (to kick-start the season)."

Joe Lumb has returned to hooker after a short stint at lock, while newcomer Harry Reicher takes on McCrone at halfback.

The Thunder has built a reputation for generally staying in the contest, even when overpowered, and Huggett says that's been the most disappointing aspect of the first fortnight.

"I think it's been just the boys dropping their heads once they've scored a couple of tries, it's a lack of confidence I suppose, we just need a bit more composure when times are getting tough," he said.

It something of an unusual quirk for the Sunday-centric league, there will be no games on Anzac Day.

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Young is home to Wagga Kangaroos, while Wagga Brothers host Southcity.

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