Cootamundra will have their strongest line up yet as they look to extend their good run of against Brothers on Saturday.
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The Bulldogs welcome back captain-coach Glen Butttriss for the clash between two top four sides at Les Boyd Oval.
Cootamundra come unstuck the last time they tackled a top four opponent, with a 48-6 loss to Southcity three weeks ago, and assistant coach Aaron Byrne wants the side to bring the right attitude to tackle an in-form Brothers outfit.
“We learnt against Southcity that we can’t afford to not show up one week,” Byrne said.
“Last week was a good win, it probably wasn’t our prettiest performance, but it was a tough win.
“We can’t afford to show up this week too casual and waste a good effort last week.”
Both teams have only lost once to start the season.
Brothers have won three on the trot and are coming off a narrow win against Gundagai.
Byrne believes the return of Buttriss will be a massive boost.
“At times last week it was quite obvious how much we lack his direction,” Byrne said.
“Obviously just his presence is a huge boost for everyone as well let alone what he does contribute on the field.”
The coach is back at five-eighth and he will be joined by James Smith in the halves.
Jordyn Ballard also returns from a shoulder issue and comes back into fullback with Matt Forsyth and Chris Maher into the centres.
Coming off a drought-breaking win over Gundagai, Brothers coach Terry Westblade expects another big challenge from the Bulldogs.
“They are going really well,” Westblade said.
“I presume they are going to be at full strength as I think the day means a fair bit to them so it we expect a tough game.”
Westblade was thrilled with his team’s defensive efforts last week but wants to see his team get through their sets with the ball better.
“We still had a few horrible sets where we couldn’t control stuff but we were getting better against Gundy,” he said. “If we can do that and keep eye on their attack, it will obviously come Buttriss I’d suggest, and contain that then we might be in with a show.”
Brothers also welcome back front rower Brayden Sharrock.
The Bulldogs are wearing specially designed jumpers for the clash as part of a reconciliation day.
Former St George Illawarra flyer Nathan Blacklock will be the special guest with a ceremony to be held before first grade kicks off at the later time of 2.45pm.
