Launceston coach not concerned by seven-year and 18-match drought against cross town rivals

Launceston’s inglorious record against its arch rival is of no concern to coach Mitch Thorp as the two sides prepare for their first encounter of the 2020 TSL season.

Mitch Thorp is plotting a way for his side to defeat North Launceston for the first time in seven years this weekend. Picture: NIKKI DAVIS-JONES

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IT’S been nearly seven years since Launceston tasted success against its cross town rivals.

Just don’t try telling Blues coach Mitch Thorp his team is the only one which could consider North Launceston a “bogey side”.

The all-conquering TSL powerhouse has won 18 consecutive contests between the two clubs dating back to August 23, 2013, with the Blues getting another chance to snap the losing streak this weekend at Windsor Park.

Thorp is well aware of the record — but knows his men are not the only ones to feel the wrath of the three-time defending premiers.

“I think they have been a bogey side for everyone, the reality is they have been a dominant side for seven years of football,” Thorp said.

“The side they have got on paper at the minute is arguably at the strongest they have ever had.

Tim Auckland has been named for his first match since returning to Launceston this year. Picture: NIKKI DAVIS-JONES

“We like the underdog title, we know on paper they look a bit stronger but we have a tight group and are trying to establish a brand over 2019 and our 2020 campaign that is sustainable and can beat North Launceston.

“That is what the remainder of the competition have to do, work out a way to try and combat their winning formula.”

The Blues, who were “really rusty” in their season opening victory against Glenorchy, faced some selection headaches for round two, with Michael Musicka to play his first State League match in four years and young defender Jack Tuthill also set to return.

Tim Auckland has been named after being an emergency last week, but Tim Bristow has been unable to squeeze into the round one senior side.

Ruckman Hamish Leedham headlines the outs, while North Launceston has included Arion Richter-Salter as one of three changes from the outfit which snuck home against North Hobart.

Tyler McGinniss is the only change for the Demons.

Bryce Walsh, who missed Lauderdale’s round one victory, has been named to take on Glenorchy. Picture: ZAK SIMMONDS

Co-captain Bryce Walsh (groin) and Mitch Anderton return for Lauderdale’s clash with Glenorchy, who lose Rhys Mott (Ulverstone) and have named Jaye Bowden as an emergency.

Cameron Goodsell returns.

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