New captain-coach Sam Elwin has backed his young squad as Temora prepares to kick start their season at the West Wyalong Knockout.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The Dragons will start the annual event taking on Tullibigeal Lakes United in the first game on Friday.
They’ve only had one off-season signing so far, with Frenchman Yoan Veve coming on board, while losing a number of their better players from last season.
Chris Maher and Jordyn Ballard have returned to Cootamundra while Grant Boyd has retired after leading the Dragons last season.
New Zealander recruit Atelea Nafetalai is also not back for a second season.
However Elwin is confident the young Dragons will be up for the challenge.
“It will be a young side,” Elwin said.
“It was our only option playing against an older side like Lake Cargelligo.
“Old blokes always hate playing against young fellas but I’m sure Lake Cargelligo will be thinking the other way around.
“I think our young fellas are up for the challenge.”
The Frenchman will join Elwin in the halves and will slot into the number six jumper.
Elwin is looking forward to getting back on the paddock with his former teammate.
He’s also expecting a big season from Matt Hughes and Kris Rands as they head into new roles in the forward pack.
“This year everyone has moved in a position,” Elwin said.
“A couple of second rowers have beefed up over the off-season and will be pushing up to the front row and likewise with our centres are moving into the second row.
“Matt Hughes will be one to watch closer to the ball.
“Unfortunately we had him out wide last year and while he is a good centre he will be even better this year in the back row.”
Elwin is still trying to bring some more new players into the club, but Temora haven’t had a lot of luck so far.
After finishing eighth last season and with very little happening on the recruitment front, the Dragons have been christened early wooden spoon favourites.
However it is something Elwin is far from worried about.
“It’s not a bad place to be,” he said.
“No one is expecting too much but I am still excited.
“Everything thinks I should be worried, but I am happy with how things are progressing, especially with our local juniors.
“I know they are eager for some first grade experience.”
Temora will tackle Southcity at Harris Park to start the season on April 14.