In one of the biggest turnover of players in the club’s history, Etu Uaisele, Liam Wiscombe, Rhys Dawe and Jon Huggett will back up in Adrian Purtell’s homecoming match.

Purtell said a new-look side brought both excitement and challenges.

“It’s exciting to get some new guys in,” Purtell said.

“There was a lot of energy at training on Thursday night.

“Getting the side to gel straight away is going to be our biggest test I think.

“I’m under no illusions about how tough it will be.

“But in saying that, things we can control are a good attitude and work ethic.

“Technically and structure-wise we might make a few errors but if our attitude is on I think we will be in with a good show against Brothers.”

Thunder have bolstered their forward pack during the week with the arrival of Englishmen Joe Lumb and Cian Timmins while Uaisele will switch from the centres to lock.

Jon Huggett has recovered from a shoulder injury in time for the clash but Thunder will miss Joe Silafau due to illness and injury.

“I played with Joe at Bradford and he played a hooking role while Cian’s a big fella so he’ll look to play in the middle unit,” Purtell said.

“They had some good energy at training which you hope happens when you get new players in.

“It’s our first game and everyone wants to start the year off well, particularly with it being a home game.

“We’re playing for keeps now.”

Although Thunder is light on for depth and reserve grade players, the top-end talent is still there.

Former Test player Joel Monaghan shapes as an enormous threat for Brothers.

He showed his undisputed talent coming off a limited preparation during trial matches in Canberra last month and Thunder will be looking to go through him at every opportunity.

“It’s massive for the team and town having someone of Joel’s ability,” Purtell said.

“It will be great to have him out there playing on the weekend.

“Brothers will be hard to beat so we’ll give it everything and see how we go.”

Purtell and Robbie Byatt will also need big seasons for Thunder to press for finals action while dashing fullback Keanau Wighton looms as a wildcard.

Bombala recruit Adam Rodwell has left the club without playing a match.

Saturday’s game starts at 5.30pm.