IT’S early days in the Horsham District Football and Netball League, but Saturday is looming as an important early fixture for two teams.
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Rupanyup hosts Taylors Lake and both teams will be looking to collect their first win of the season.
Two notable players from Darwin are playing for the Panthers in 2017 in Hugh McMurtrie and Jack Musgrove.
Both players will provide great outlets for the side’s second game.
Panthers coach Andrew May and his assistant Zack May have the tools to create a formidable side – now they must put it together.
“I think we’ll shape up well,” Zack May said.
“We will have a couple bigger bodies back. I think we were a little light on for the first game.”
May understands it will take a while for the side to gel.
“We are just working at getting consistent numbers on the track, which takes time,” he said.
“We have a young group, so Dad and I are changing a few things around and trying blokes in different positions.”
The Lakers’ restructure is well underway, with plenty of young players knocking on coach Jye Smith’s door to make sure he knows they are prepared to take the step up.
Smith said the side could experience a number of changes on Saturday.
“There could be five to six changes to the side,” he said.
“Sam Turmine and Taylor Milner will most likely miss this weekend as well as Tristan March.”
This will pave the way for fringe senior players to make a breakthrough into the top grade.
“There are a couple of under-17s players who stepped up last (round) and will be getting another turn,” Smith said.
“This will give those boys senior game experience as well as the (reserves) who will be stepping up.
“It will only help them out in the future.”
Smith expected a strong contest.
“Rupanyup is a good side but we shouldn’t get smacked like last round,” he said.
“I expect Jack McRae to have another good game. He always gives it 100 per cent.”
Lachlan Marks had been another player to watch for the Lakers. He had a strong pre-season and is a consistent performer at training sessions.