Bathurst Panthers … defending premiers.

Doug Hewitt knew it was possible, but leading into the 2018 season he may well have been the only one.

But when, at a Group 10 pre-season function, someone tried to throw $50 on his Panthers side going through the entire competition without a win, he knew then the Bathurst club had a point to prove.

And he was determined to ensure they did just that.

It’ll be the same story in 2019, as well.

“We had that title of being underdogs the whole way through (2018) … and I don’t know if people are expecting a lot from us again this year, but we’ll take very game as it comes. I’ve said it before to the boys: don’t be happy just to be there. Stick it to every team we play.”

Next week’s episode will feature the Dom Maley-led Orange CYMS.