Waratahs run towards the premiership has struck a blow with flanker Sam Palmer ruled out for the rest of the season.
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After having surgery on his knee during the off-season, Palmer has struggled through the pain this year but is not expected to return for the undefeated team.
“He is pretty gutted about it,” coach Will Mitchell said.
“He had surgery after last year’s season and it just hasn’t bounced back again.
“He is too sore and it is just restricting him too much.”
Waratahs have an excellent replacement for the clash against Albury on Saturday with Dave Armstrong returning to the starting team.
Due to farming commitments and a knee injury sustained during a representative game in the pre-season, Armstrong has had a limited impact this season.
However after three games in second grade he is ready for a return.
Mitchell is looking forward to having one of the best players in the region back at his disposal.
“Dave is probably the best replacement you can get,” he said. “He will be a massive asset for us.”
Armstrong’s return at number eight pushes Sean Kearnes into flanker.
Mitchell doesn’t believe the team will lose any of his impact due to the switch.
“I think we will probably see better football out of Kearnsy with him being on the ball a bit more at six,” Mitchell said. “He has played a lot of rep footy at six so I am sure you will be fine.”
Waratahs have also made a change to their back line with captain Tim Corcoran unavailable.
Bart Whiteley will take his place at inside centre while Morgan Jones comes back onto the wing.
In a show of his versatility, halfback is the only backline position Whiteley hasn’t played in so far this season.
The two team’s met in last year’s decider but the Steamers are a shadow of their nearly undefeated team last season.
Waratahs scored a 82-20 win went the team’s met on the border earlier in the season and Mitchell just wants to kick the season after two general byes.
“For us it is just another game of footy,” he said. “The grand final is done and dusted and we got the result last time. Albury have definitely got the calibre to surprise people so we just have to play our game.”
The game will kick off the earlier time of 2.15pm ahead of the club’s ball.
The first grade team will also wear special jumpers which will be auctioned off at the ball to support Riverina Bluebell.
Forward Matt Meggison said it was great for the club to support another worthwhile local charity.
“With the ability our club has to raise money for a good cause all the supporters do a really good job on this day annually to their support,” Meggison said.