Launceston captain Bryce Walsh says three TSL games in eight days will test even the best

Lauderdale captain Bryce Walsh believes this year’s TSL roster will be as big a challenge as any opposition, with quick turnaround times between games to test the depth of all clubs.

LAUDERDALE captain Bryce Walsh has declared himself fighting fit four weeks out from the start of the delayed TSL season but says the prospect of playing three games in eight days could test the depths of playing personnel.

The roster is still being drafted for the season to run from July 18 to October 18 with 12 home-and-away games and a two-week finals series.

But word is out that reduced turnaround times between games will have players under pressure to recover and avoid injury.

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Bryce Walsh clears the ball under pressure from Launceston’ Jobi Harper. Picture: NIKKI DAVIS-JONES

“I’m not 100 per cent sure how it’s going to be received by the players,” Walsh said.

“It’s already pretty tough playing on a Saturday and then being ready to play again the following Saturday. Sometimes you’re not even right on the Thursday to start training.

“You’ve just got to get through so you can suit up for the next week

“It will be challenging. Recovery will be the key.”

It could put additional pressure on the TSL’s more “experienced” campaigners.

“Guys will do everything they can to get up for games,” Walsh said.

“It’s probably going to be a season for the team that can keep the healthiest list and has got the depth.

“Teams might need to rotate some older boys in and out to get them through.

“That’s going to be a big factor in deciding the team that comes out on top.”

Runner-up for the past three seasons, Lauderdale still has its eye on the prize.

“Everyone’s goal is to win the premiership and that’s what we’re trying to achieve,” Walsh said.

Bryce Walsh has been cycling and playing golf to try to keep fit during the season delay. Picture: ZAK SIMMONDS

Walsh was supposed to be in the USA this week doing an exchange working as a green keeper at US Masters golf course Augusta, but coronavirus travel restrictions torpedoed that.

“I’ve been scratching my head for the past few months for something to do on a Saturday, so it’s good to be able to play footy again,” he said.

“I did things outside football to keep me occupied – golf and cycling and that sort of stuff – so I’m pretty fit and ready to go.”