Is there a better way to kick off a Group 20 season than with a grand final rematch?
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Well, when it also means it’s a local derby on a Saturday afternoon, there is no better way to kick off the season than with a showdown between Waratah Tigers and Griffith Black and Whites.
The excitement amongst the players is obvious, and according to Panthers coach Andrew Lavaka, his troops are ready to go.
“It’s round one of the season, and you couldn’t ask for a better fixture straight up,” he said.
It’s round one of the season and you couldn’t ask for a better fixture straight up
- Andrew Lavaka
“It’s back to 80-minute football, and the boys are all looking forward to taking the field.”
Both sides made it through to the second week of the Paul Kelly Knockout with both sides losing to eventual champions the Yenda Blueheelers.
Lavaka said there were plenty of positives in his side’s performance despite the result.
“I think our performed pretty well,” he said.
“The pleasing thing is it was a test for our players, and they were pushing themselves for a place in the first-grade side.”
The sides will also be fighting for the Joe Fabris Cup, which is currently held Black and Whites after they defeated the Waratahs 26-23 in their round 12 clash last season.
Lavaka knows where his side needs to be strong if they want to hold on to the cup.
“I’m pretty sure it is going to be another hot day,” he said.
“Ball control will be crucial in the conditions, and we need to make sure our defence is strong as well.”
There will be three games played on Exies Oval on Saturday starting with the League Tag at 2.30pm.
The reserve grade will then come out at 3.30pm before the first-grade grand final rematch gets underway at around 5pm.