ORANGE City will send as close to a full-strength side as it can boast to next weekend’s Cowra 10s in the hope of claiming the inaugural pre-season tournament.
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City had its first hit-out of the 2015 season last Saturday against West Harbour’s first colts outfit, and after sending out the Lions colts to begin the trial, soon inserted some senior footballers into the mix and co-coach Mick Gray was more than happy with what he saw in the six-tries-to-two victory.
In the face of a number of big name departures from Orange City ahead of this season, Gray added the club’s depth would stand up to the test.
“I think we’re pretty lucky in that regard,” he said.
“We’ve had genuine first graders playing seconds for a couple of years.
“I think the depth of our juniors has been a strength for a long time, and we’re now capable of filling those places.”
Gray said the likes of Cameron Cole and Tom Nell formed a strong halves combination, while Taylor Smith and Chris Scoins were stand-outs on the wing and at No.8 respectively.
Veteran Chris Senior was also an adept replacement for long-time hooker Josh Tremain, who’ll play in Dubbo in 2015.
With a trial win now in the bag, Gray said Orange City’s attention has already turned towards the Cowra 10s.
“We’ll pretty much select a first grade side for the 10s this year,” he said.
“We thought if we’re going to go, why not go to win it.”
Following next week’s 10s, City has a week off before hosting its own 10s tournament then travelling to Newcastle to play defending premiers Wanderers at the end of March.
“That’ll be a good test for us. We’ll know where we sit after that game,” Gray added.