Round 12 Preview
Round 12 Preview 'John Thornett Cup'
Rolling into the penultimate round of the competition. Norths head to University Oval favorites to remain in 2nd place and are out to reclaim the John Thornett Cup. Having collected the Rod Phelps and Baxter Mortlock Cups along their 6 game-winning run.
What a difference a couple of weeks can make. 'They' say a week is a long time in rugby if you've had a loss, so 3 must feel like an eternity for the reigning back to back premiers.
That said, one must never write off a champion and it would be a brave person to write off a Sydney University team with their backs to the wall playing for their season. Bolstered by Wallaby Tom Robertson, and a host of players with Super Rugby and international experience.
While The Shoremen found a way to win in the gusty conditions at Pittwater Rugby Park, with the scrum under pressure early. The students found a way to lose having lead 19 - 3 over Gordon in round 11.
Norths will be without tighthead prop Dewald Dekker after a run of yellow cards (3) sees him on the sidelines for 1 week. Dekker is replaced by Isaac Cavu who returns from a hamstring injury sustained in round 5 v Hunter.
Meanwhile, form winger Reece Mau'u comes back into the frame this week after overcoming a leg injury that kept him from last rounds win. Reece's return is timely as Cam Clark is a late withdrawal during the week following a concussion, his omission pushes Kepu Lokotui to the right-wing.
Livewires scrumhalf Nick Duffy will notch up his 50th 1st Grade game when he runs out on Saturday.
In's: Isaac Cavu, Reece Mau'u, Jayden Lynch (reserves)
Out: Dewald Dekker (Suspended), Cam Clark (Concussion)
Round 12, Saturday, October 3rd v Sydney University @ University Oval No. 2
4th Grade 8:55 am - streamed by Bar TV
3rd Grade 10:25 am - streamed by Bar TV
1st Colts 11:50 am - streamed by Bar TV
2nd Grade 1:25 pm - streamed by Bar TV
1st Grade 3:10 pm - Live 7 flix
Colts 3 9:10 am & Colts 2 10:25 am St Johns College Oval * (Tickets not required)
