After back-to-back losses to start the season, Yenda co-coach Tom Sellars believes the bye last week was the perfect remedy for his side.
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Sellars gave the Blueheelers the weekend off to get away from football before going full steam ahead in the lead-up to this weekend’s match.
“It was good to clear our heads a bit, we were pretty disappointed with how we played in the first two games,” Sellars said.
“We got away from it [rugby league] and got back into training this week.
“We’re training three times this week. On Monday, last night [Tuesday] and Thursday, just to get back on top of things.”
Yenda will take on long-time rivals and reigning premiers the Grfiffith Waratah Tigers at the Exies Oval on Saturday as they strive for their first win of the year.
The sides will also be playing for the Graham Moon Memorial Cup which the Waratahs currently hold.
It’s a match that the Blueheelers have had their eye since the draw came out.
Sellars said a number of factors had Yenda primed for the rivalry match.
“It’s one we singled out at the start of the year. Taking on the premiers, we’re not coming in with the form we’d like but I know the boys will be up for this one,” Sellars said.
“It’s been a pretty disappointing start but the boys have had a pretty good attitude at training.
“We’re all working hard on defence, ball control, completing sets.
“We’re looking forward to getting on the field and seeing if we can improve on those little things.
“There’s a big rivalry there and them being premiers adds to it a bit. The boys always get up for these games.”
Add to that an injury-free list and Sellars likes Yenda’s chances.
“Apart from the bad start, we’ll have a full strength side which is good to have,” Sellars said.
The Waratahs come into the match off a defensively-driven 19-12 win over Yanco-Wamoon.
Having the bye the week before worked for the Waratahs and coach Kose Lelei won’t be taking the winless Yenda lightly.
He’s been putting an emphasis on defence at training and letting the attack come next.
“Yenda hasn't won yet but I know they will show up on Saturday to play,” Lelei said.
“I’ve been happy how the boys have been training.
“Good defence – especially early in the season – that's what every team wants.
“To defend the way we did against Yanco-Wamoon last week it's showing good signs for the season.”
The under 16s will start the day at 2pm before first grade kicks off at 5.45pm.
