The top-of-the-table Forbes Magpies are honing their focus as they prepare to take on defending premiers Mudgee in Round 10 of the Peter McDonald Premiership this Saturday.
The first grade side held on to win a solid contest from Nyngan Tigers 30-26 at Spooner Oval last weekend, captain Nick Greenhalgh keen for a couple of good sessions on the training paddock this week in the lead up to the trip to Glen Willow Stadium.
Magpies were slower at the start against Nyngan than they’d have liked, Greenhalgh admitted, but he was pleased with how his side rallied.
The renowned Forbes defence was working to the final bell, with Nyngan on the attack late after a lengthy injury delay.
Charlie Lennon scored on just his second game for first grade this season, the side pleased to welcome him back to the forward pack.
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“He ended up getting man of the match on the weekend, he was massive,” Greenhalgh said.
“We’re pleased to have someone like Charlie back, we know what he brings.”
Hayden Bolam sat out due to injury, but Jake Porter is back and played a fair bit in the number nine spot.
“We’re lucky this year we’ve got so many guys who can play multiple positions,” Greenhalgh said, pleased to have that versatility in the squad.
“We’re still figuring out our best side but I think we’re getting close.”
Sunday’s performance left the squad with enough to work ahead of the Mudgee match, even if the Dragons have had a few injuries.
“I’m not too sure what sort of team they’re going to name this week, if they’ve got a few guys back, but I don’t think it matters,” Greenhalgh said.”
“It’s Mudgee in Mudgee – I know they’re going to be ready for it.”
So are the Magpies.
“We’ve got a few things to work on, but we’re all staying positive,” Greenhalgh said.
“A couple of good nights at training will put us in good stead.”
It’s the 10th weekend in a row for the Forbes squad, who’ll get their bye after Mudgee.
“It’s a long start to the season,” Greenhalgh acknowledged.
“The boys are pretty keen for the top-of-the-table clash and if we get the two points we can really enjoy the week off, regroup and come back stronger the following week.”
MAGPIES 30 Zeke Hartwig, Jack Smith, Jake Porter, Charlie Lennon, Traie Merritt, Nick Greenhalgh five conversions TIGERS 26
RESERVE GRADE MAGPIES 36 Harry Staines, Joe Morrison, Brodie Acret, Charlie Lennon, Matty Duke, Ayden Flick, John Darcy six conversions TIGERS 16
LEAGUE TAG MAGPIES 6 Summer Hurford TIGERS 8
