Shute Shield 2020: Newcastle Wildfires hoping to surprise in comp return
Newcastle players may have to play this particular style of rugby to pull off a few surprises in their long-awaited return to the upcoming Shute Shield.
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Newcastle players are “jumping out of their skin” to get back on the paddock and play their first game of Shute Shield rugby since 1999.
Coach Scott Coleman is impressed by the enthusiasm and work ethic of his team ahead of their opener against Randwick at Coogee this Saturday.
“There is just excitement to be honest. They know they are up against it but they are jumping out of their skin to get out there,” Coleman said.
“They have a really good attitude. We know we have to muscle up in defence. That’s our No.1 focus.
“We will also have a bit of ad lib – we won’t roll teams with perfect structure.”
Coleman said the club has another goal as it works towards making its return to the Shute Shield fold permanent.
“We want to it to be an enjoyable experience when they come here to Newcastle,” Coleman said.
“With a hard fair game on the field and a good welcome and experience off it.
“We have only been given a one year thing … we are working to see if we can get that changed.
“We are a late inclusion. If we can know in the next few months we are in for the next five year we can get a business plan going.”
ROUND 1 (July 18)
Warringah v Sydney University at Rat Park
Gordon v Eastern Suburbs at Chatswood
Southern Districts Eastwood at Forshaw
West Harbour v Northern Suburbs at Drummoyne
Manly v Western Sydney at Manly
Randwick v Newcastle at Coogee
BYE: Penrith