Rams shaping up well in practice

While some thirds filled in for Bayswater reserves who were short on numbers, Deniliquin Rams’ Senior co-coach Ash Morris said Bayswater provided high-quality competition.

“The practice match was an even contest across the ground,” he said.

“Bayswater brought a quality side. It was good to get a hit out and blood some new faces and for the new players to get used to the style and names and get the cobwebs out.

“We haven’t had too much match practice yet, and it was great to see players hitting the contest and getting that body-on-body contact.”

Morris said the new players all settled in nicely, with some names to look out for this season.

“Will Henderson looked great in his first game for the club and Mick Barnett, returning from Geelong, will be a key cog down back.

“Jake Hobbs and Sam Lloyd were impressive to see and simulate with their on-field leadership, which will be great for our younger players.”

The fourths and thirds footballers have also got some practice in, heading to Tocumwal to play against The Bloods Thursday last week.

And there will be more opportunities for the Rams to hone their skills before the Easter season kick off, with more practice games coinciding with the club’s season opener and membership drive at Hardinge St on March 16.

The fourths will play Picola side Jerilderie from 10.30am to noon.

The thirds will play Leitchville Gunbower Football Netball Club from noon to 1.30pm, and seniors will also play Leitchville from 1.30pm to 4pm.

“It’s another opportunity to get a competitive hit out,” Morris said.

“The senior travelling players will likely rest, so it’ll be an opportunity for the younger players to have deeper responsibility and exposure to match situations.”

The Rams will have a bar running, and pizzas will be available.