Thompson confident new-look BRL team can win comp

Bundaberg representative captain Jake Thompson is adamant his team can overcome a spate of late changes to claim the Central Division 47th Battalion Carnival.

LEADER: Isis Devil Jake Thompson, pictured last year, will captain the Bundaberg team at this weekend's Central Division 47th Battalion Carnival. Picture: Alistair Brightman

LEAGUE: Bundaberg representative captain Jake Thompson is adamant his team can overcome a spate of late changes to claim the Central Division 47th Battalion Carnival.

Only one Fraser Coast-based player, Maryborough Brothers front-rower Mason Atkinson, remains in the rep team after four original local reps - Wallaroos trio Will Jung, Joey Alberts and Shaun Collins and Hervey Bay's Steven Dwyer - withdrew.

Click here to see the BRL's 47th Battalion Carnival team

It won't disrupt the Antonio Kaufusi-coached team. It could help.

"I think so, not making the final would be disappointing," he said.

"These boys have the right attitude."

This is the second time Thompson has captained the side, but he will be a different leader compared to when he led the BRL team into battle last year.

"I was trying to redeem myself last year," Thompson said. "I had come back (from Sunshine Coast Falcons) and was so focused on making Central. I was looking too far ahead, whereas now my focus is on this weekend and making it into that final."