THE BHP Billiton Hunter Valley Group 21 Rugby League general bye last weekend was a “blessing in disguise”, according to Muswellbrook Rams president Kurt Dial.
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The competition leaders maintained their unbeaten status against the Aberdeen Tigers in round seven – and now face long-time rivals Singleton Greyhounds at Olympic Park on Saturday.
“It was a pretty ordinary spectacle [with Aberdeen],” Dial said.
“In saying that, I don’t think so many penalties were warranted.
“But, it feels like it’s been a long season so far.
“We were missing six players against the Tigers; and there were a lot of others carrying niggling injuries.
“So, the weekend off was a good thing.”
Dial said the Rams were in a great position mid-year, with firsts and under-18s sitting atop of their respective tables, and the reserves and women’s league tag sides positioned third.
“We’re absolutely rapt with how the whole club’s going,” he admitted.
“But, it’s terrific both the seniors and under-18s are undefeated – they’re playing good footy.
“However, we’re not getting ahead of ourselves.
“We’re taking each week as it comes.”
Dial said the Rams were preparing for a massive showdown with the Greyhounds, especially at home on a Saturday.
“The town’s been really supportive of the club in 2017, the numbers are fantastic,” he told the Chronicle.
“Hopefully, we’ll draw another big crowd this weekend.
“It should be a great game.
“I thought Singleton was unlucky not to beat Denman [in the previous round].
“Josh Desmond looked good, Jye Bayley has them going forward and Chad Solman is orchestrating their attack.
“The Greyhounds can be a very dangerous team.
“But, we’ll continue to do what we’re doing – and stick to our structures.
“I don’t expect the Rams will be at full strength, however that won’t be an excuse.
“We’ve got a lot of depth [in the club] this year.
“Under-18 players Fletcher Baker and Bailey Taylor have stood tall in the seniors, while Wade McKenzie sat on the bench against Aberdeen.”
Women’s league tag kicks off the action at 1.30pm, while first grade starts from 5.15pm.