WHITES HOST UNIS IN MUST WIN CLASH
The Whites host the visiting Uni-Norths Owls this Saturday and fingers crossed the weather gods are being kind with recent rains playing havoc with the draw. The Whites have shared the points from the washed-out Wests game whilst last week’s full wash out round has been cancelled across 1st grade meaning only 3 games remain before the finals kick off.
The prayers to the weather gods are not only to ensure a full day of rugby action and some bright sunshine, but also the Whites will be hosting it’s annual ‘Ladies Day’.
The Whites go into the clash not having played a game for 3 weeks and it’s hoped that the long break hasn’t affected the teams recent run of wins. As it turns out, Unis are the only side that the Whites haven’t beaten in season 2021 proving just how close this competition is. The Whites currently sit 2 points out of 4th spot and win this weekend will be crucial to staying in finals contention.
Unis have started the year in fine style but have had the odd hiccup in recent weeks and will want to reassert their premiership credentials by snuffing out the Whites for the 3rd time this season. They base themselves off a solid forward platform and have some exciting outside backs, so an epic clash is guaranteed. The Whites have been far more consistent in recent outings and will again be needing a full 80-minute effort to get the chocolates. Coach French was close to naming his side as players return from injury available and welcomes back Liam Richman and Reece Tapine in the backline and looking to match the Unis outside men. He also has a few stars under injury concerns so a strong starting 15 will be crucial.
It will be a full day of rugby with all grades at home and the forecast sunshine and pleasant 15 degrees for 1st grade kick-off time should hopefully see plenty of action on the field and healthy local crowd on hand. Along with Ladies Day there will be plenty of activities to keep everyone engaged aside from the action with junior matches and a kids amusement area set up for the duration of the afternoon from 1pm.
Senior grades kick-off at 10.55 with 4th grade (playing Easts), 3rd grade (also playing Easts) and Colts at 12.15pm, 2nd grade at 1.40pm and the 1st grade game at 3.00pm. As usual, that will be followed by the Women taking on Unis under lights at 4.45pm – all these matches against Unis. All lower grades are sitting in the top 4 but will need to continue the winning form to ensure that they are all about when the finals get underway.
The Whites look forward to seeing supporters to get behind them and enjoying the activities of Ladies Day and see the Whites have a win as they enjoy a home game for the 2nd last time in season 2021!