Gold Training under-20s coach Ben Woolf goes into tomorrow’s clash with the Rabbitohs with the same wish he has had in recent weeks – for his side to stay in the grind and not have that 10-15 minute “switch off” period where they have conceded quick tries that ultimately cost them the match.
There were better against the Sharks in their last match, but still went down 18-16 after leading 10-0 early in the match. For most of the game they played with purpose and few errors but crucial brief spells proved costly.
Woolf said his team did a good job defensively and just need to replicate the effort in that match but be more patient with the ball.
“We need to focus on our ruck defence and controlling the play the ball which is crucial in the competition,” Woolf said.
“We had poor structure against the Sharks, we need to be focused on this area of the game. The Rabbitohs are a similar side to us and we need to be better in these areas to win.”
There are a couple of late changes to the side. While Shaun Hudson and Karl Lawton have been cleared to play, forwards Anthony Colman and Nathan Watts have dropped out. Ben Mathiou will start in the front row while 18-year-old Greg Leleisiaou has been added to the bench, which will be finalised tomorrow.
“There have been a couple guys who have been waiting for this opportunity and will bring some enthusiasm into the side,” Woolf said.
The Gold Training under-20s team is:
1 -Shaun Hudson (capt)
2 - Christian Mika
3 – Brian Kelly
4 - Josh Berkers
5 – Tevita Folau
6 – Deacon Fletcher
7 - Brayden Torpy
15 - Ben Mathiou
9 – Karl Lawton
10 - Max Elliott
11 - Shane Wright
12 - Hayden Schwass
13 - Parahi Wilson (capt)
Interchange (from):
16 – Shane Gillham
17 – Chris Law
18 – Jackson Clarke
19 - Daymeric Pelo
20 – Delayne Ashby
21 – Greg Leleisiaou
