Wattles pumped for local derby at Clifton

BACKLINE star returns to Wattles for local derby

REP DUTIES: Wattles player Nick Van Der Poel will miss the Warwick game due to Clydesdales commitments. Picture: Kevin Farmer

RUGBY LEAGUE: Coach Travis Burns and his Madsen-Rasmussen Trophy-winning Wattles Warriors may have soaked up the accolades after winning one of the competition's major honours in the TRL's 100th year last Sunday, but the celebrations were somewhat short-lived.

For Burns and his line-up, it's back to business as the second half of the TRL premiership kicks off in the local derby on Sunday at Platz Oval against fellow top-three opponents Warwick Cowboys.

After their round 11 walloping of the low-on-the-ladder Oakey Bears, Wattles lifted the intensity seven days later at Clive Berghofer Stadium to avenge last year's mid-season final loss and claim a 28-26 win over arch rivals Valleys Roosters.

While mentor Burns praised his top graders, he was also proud of what he felt was a sterling effort for the Wattles to field two teams in last weekend's mid-season gala day.

Wattles representative second-rower Mitch Koina was rewarded for his superb effort in the final with the Bill and Steve Pollard Family Medal as player of the match.

A welcome sight for the Wattles hierarchy is the return of former Intrust Super Cup back Jake Hargreaves for the Cowboys clash.

Hargreaves will dovetail nicely into the Warriors' backline given regular three-quarter Nick Van Der Poel has Clydesdales representative duties.

The first game on Sunday is reserve grade at 1pm, with A-grade at 2.30pm.

The Wattles club will host its annual social highlight - Ladies Day - commencing at noon, arranged by Wattles ambassador Erin Glass.

Details 0421983628.