Border Mail |
ALBURY co-coach Chris Hyde admits he can’t remember a younger Tigers side than the one that will tackle Wangaratta tomorrow.
The Tigers, who have been left to deal with a stack of early season injuries to experienced players, will field just nine premiership players against the Pies.
The Ovens and Murray powerhouse last night included Andrew Dennis, Will Haberecht, John Mitchell and Lonnie Hampton, with Mitchell the oldest of that quartet at just 22.
“It’s probably something that’s got under everyone’s guard,” Hyde admitted after training last night.
“It was similar against the Raiders last week. I can’t really remember a younger side, no.
“But age hasn’t had anything to do with it, The guys who are in the side are in good form and are good players.
“We think it’s a real positive.”
Despite the lack of experience, the unbeaten Tigers will go into Saturday’s clash at Norm Minns Oval red-hot favourites.
However, Hyde doesn’t see things that way.
“Ever since I’ve been here, playing Wangaratta at Wangaratta has always been a tough game,” he said.
“They’ve played Yarra, Lavington and North Albury when they were going well and have won all their other games.
“I think their form is better than what people are probably giving them credit for.”
Round 7 teams — page 48
