HUNTER Valley Group 21 Rugby League is hoping Matthew Morgan’s recent run of success continues at the 2019 Greater Northern Championships at Tamworth next month.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The astute mentor coached the Merriwa Magpies to its first title in the six-week CRL Nines competition, which wrapped up in December.
Now, he’s preparing the women’s representative side for the Tigers’ regional trials against Group 19 and Group 4 at Scully Park on February 9.
But, he won’t be alone, with five of his charges – Gaynor Blackadder, Shai Blackadder, Taylah Blackadder, Kelly Maslen and Jessyca Morgan – also in the line-up.
“I’m real happy with the squad,” Morgan said.
“It’s a fit, agile side, with a good mix of ages.
“We’ve got a bit of experience, thanks to Gaynor [Blackadder], Jessyca [Morgan], Shae Pemberton (Muswellbrook), Caitlin Albury (Greta Branxton) and Tracey Saunders [Murrurundi], which will complement the bunch of talented youngsters.
“They’ll definitely help the other girls.
“In fact, they gelled pretty well at our first run last Thursday night.”
Morgan admitted preparation was the key to a strong showing at Tamworth.
“We’ll train hard to make sure everyone is right,” he said.
“They’re also extremely enthusiastic, which I’m thrilled about.
“It’s 13-a-side [tackle], so it’s a step up after the nines.
“However, I think they’ll handle it better than last season.
“We’re going in [to the championships] with confidence.
“If we play as a team, and not as individuals, I’m sure we can grab a couple of wins.
“And, if we get 40-45 per cent of the players into the Tigers team, it would be a good reward for their efforts.
“Everyone is keen.
“I know Group 19 will be tough, so we need to put it on them early.
“As for Group 4, we’ll definitely treat them with respect, too.”
To ensure the girls are at their best, further training sessions are scheduled for Thursday, January 31; Monday, February 4; and Thursday, February 7, at Muswellbrook’s Olympic Park.
