YOUNG captain-coach Luke Branighan admits a time-machine would come in handy before Saturday’s Group Nine clash with Tumut at Twickenham.
Branighan revealed on Thursday the arrival of Young’s high quality New Zealand recruit Isaac Maliota had been delayed for several weeks.
“He won’t be here until mid-May,” Branighan said.
“He’ll arrive in time to play the game after we have the bye.”
With Maliota now scheduled to hit town in time to play for Young against Brothers at Alfred Oval on May 24, the Cherrypickers will have to make do without his size, skill and strength on Saturday.
The big Kiwi is full-throttle impact player and Branighan concedes he would be valuable in the trenches against Tumut in the hills.
“They’ve got a couple of big blokes who always cause us problems,” Branighan said.
For Branighan, Saturday’s game is a chance for Young to make amends for a “disappointing” result against Southcity last weekend.
Young and Southcity drew 24-all, but he Cherrypickers coach is adamant his team “should have won”.
Despite Tumut’s lowly rating, Branighan is approaching the game with trepidation.
“They’re always tough up there (Tumut),” he said.
“I’m sure (Arana) Taumata will be desperate for a win”.
Young has lost Jake Dawe for the game, with Connor Brebner drafted into the squad.
