Good Friday test for Rams

By Rowan Frazer

Mar 29, 2024

Ryan MacDonald is one of the younger members of the Deni Rams side who is expected to make his mark on the game this year. Photo by Megan Fisher

The Deniliquin Rams face off against Finley in their round one twilight match against Finley Cats at Hardinge St Oval today.

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It’s a challenge first-up for the Rams, who finished below Finley on the seniors ladder despite being competitive across the 2023 Murray League season.

In the corresponding fixture last year, the Rams went down by one point.

However, Rams co-coach Gary Parsons said this year, both teams have new recruits.

“Both sides are completely different from when we played them last year,” Parsons said.

“Finley are likely going to be a very good football side this year but we stand in the knowledge that we’ve done the work over the pre-season.”

Parsons said the gains made by the younger members of the Rams’ senior football group will be indicative of the whole side’s improvement.

While the club did make some key signings in the off-season and has a swag of players returning home, Parsons said they would be key to the year ahead.

“The improvement in our ladder position this season will be down to the improvement of our younger players who have been playing for a couple of years now, such as Cable Fitzpatrick, Ryan MacDonald and Charlie Hillier. And there’s probably another two or three guys at least that could fit into that group of younger guys.”

“You generally know the recruits will be good players as they’re pretty consistent, but the growth of the team will be down to those younger guys.

“All-in-all we’re a fairly experienced group and looking to have a good season.

“It’s a pretty big game, the Good Friday twilight game against Finley, and as the first game of the year which will be a challenging test for us.

“They’ve probably had the wood over us over the last couple of years. So it’ll be good for us to show what we’ve got.

“It’s always a pretty special game and always good to play in front of a big crowd and have that finals-like atmosphere. A lot of things to look forward to with the game, season and it’s a pretty exciting time at the club.”