The Cutters came on board as Griffith’s Southern Inland Rugby Union reserve grade team this year and have supplied players to the Blacks’ senior side at different times.

Doughty said the Cutters had a lot of respect for the reigning premiers. 

“The link with Griffith has worked well this year and we really appreciate the support that the Blacks have given us,” he said. 

“The relationship with the Blacks is a new one. It’s been good and worked well for both clubs. 

“We've had a few guys help out first grade this year, which has been excellent for those players.”

The Cutters lead the reserve grade competition after 14 rounds and have been near the top of the ladder for the majority of the season. 

Doughty said there was plenty of ability in Hay’s roster.

“To be honest, I’m not surprised that we are going well this year,” he said.

“We have a great winning culture at the Cutters and some top players. However, I am surprised that we are on top of the table. 

“I was definitely confident in us making the finals, but not so sure if we would be premiership contenders.”

But after what he’s seen from his players, Doughty said there was no reason why the Cutters couldn’t go all the way. 

“The boys are confident,” he said. “We have had a few blokes out with work, but come finals time we should be full strength. 

“Our toughest opponent this year has been Leeton. Their club is back to its best and they play a very tough brand of rugby and have a wealth of experience. 

“Aggies are another team that we are very wary of. It’s important to give credit to every side we come up against, though.”

A Wagga native, Doughty moved to Hay for work reasons and has played three years with the Cutters and coached the side for the past two.

He said it was a great club to be involved with.

“I've played rugby at varying levels in a few different locations and I've found my time at Hay rugby very rewarding,” he said. 

“They're a great bunch of blokes, a good committee and we have a great support network in the region. 

“It’s very important for the players. We have guys based anywhere from Maude to Yenda and from Conargo to Ivanhoe.”