Derby gets Roos in the right mood

THERE is no love lost between Maroochy-Northshore and Noosa, and Roos' 2IC Dave Hulsman has stirred the pot heading into today's Pineapple Hotel Cup derby.

A Maroochy-Northshore defender tries to smother the kick of Wilston Grange’s Zac Molan earlier this season. Picture: Cade Mooney

THERE is no love lost between Maroochy-Northshore and Noosa, and Roos co-captain Dave Hulsman has stirred the pot heading into today’s Pineapple Hotel Cup local derby.

Former Roos players Travis Mills and Owen Bailey have defected to Noosa this year and will turn out at Fisherman’s Road for the first time in Tigers colours.

Hulsman, 34, said while he respected the duo as players, they were the opposition now.

“It’ll be interesting to see how that goes down,” he said.

“They had their reasons for going up there and I guess it’s better for all parties now.

“They’re both good players and I’ve played a lot of footy with them, but as far as I’m concerned when we line up they are two former teammates.”

Hulsman, a versatile senior player, said the Roos would field their strongest team in what had been a disappointing season.

“It doesn’t matter if you’re new to the club or not, you’ll feel the rivalry out there,” he said.

“Barring a few results over the last few years, they (local derbies) are usually close, regardless of where we are on the ladder.

“We look forward to this fixture every year.”

The Roos welcome back Kane Tyson from injury.

Hulsman returns after missing last weekend’s loss to Sandgate.

GAME DAY:

MAROOCHY-NORTHSHORE v NOOSA

Today, Fisherman’s Road, 2pm

Originally published as Derby gets Roos in the right mood