TLU taking on Waratahs in Group 20 first grade preliminary final

The sides will face off in this week’s first grade preliminary final for a chance to face the Black and White in the decider.

Having secured a grinding last weekend against Darlington Point Coleambally, Sharks coach James Williams is confident his side has what it takes.

“After last weekend the boys all had a smile on their face while they were walking off the field,” he said.

“We are looking pretty good heading into this weekend, and we are on our toes.”

It is not all good news for TLU and Williams who went off with a hamstring injury late in last week’s minor semi final.

“As much as I would love to be out there it won’t happen,” he said.

“It is a grade two hamstring tear, so I’m looking at four-six weeks on the sideline.

“It’s probably the worst time I could think of to pick up my first hamstring injury.

“I have faith in the boys who are going to step up.”

Heading into the game, Williams has confidence in his side’s ability to score points it will come down to keeping the Tahs out.

“Hopefully this week when tackles need to be made they are,” he said.

“We just need to believe in each other.”

For the Waratahs coach, Chris Hanneman knows where his side needs to improve after their loss to Black and Whites last weekend.

“Our completions were not where they needed to be,” he said.

“We dropped a fair bit of the ball, and it goes to show that if you don’t hold onto the ball, it will cost you against the better sides.”

Hanneman is expecting a tough game from the Sharks going on what he saw last weekend.

“You just see the desperation that takes over a side in that situation,” he said.

“We know that is it going to be a tough game.

“We have had some tough games over the last couple of weeks, and the boys pulled up well which is good.”

The preliminary final will be played at Leeton No 1 Oval and kick off is slated for around 3pm depending on finishing times of the lower grade games.