The Replacements: How Celtics plan to topple the Bulls

Wed, Aug 21, 2024, 12:31 PM
Gerard McLenaghan
by Gerard McLenaghan

The Gold Coast rugby community was stunned when Nerang 2nd grade fell to Hinterland Celtics in the Major semi final a fortnight ago.

Undefeated all season, Nerang went into the contest as red-hot favourites, only to be dismantled by the Celtics 'Bomb Squad'; their intimidating bench that turned the contest on its head.

Two weeks later and Celtics will be out to replicate the result again, this time in Nerang's own backyard.

To see how Celtics have been preparing for their rematch with Nerang, we chatted with skipper Tana Heron.

GCDRU: Taking on the Nerang on their home turf in a GF... Do you walk into this contest feeling as though you or the Bulls are favourites?

Heron: I would like to think we are favourites but to be playing against Nerang who are on a 3 peat - we will need to be at our best to beat them.

GCDRU: Did the boys have the week off or a changed training schedule following the major semi victory?

Heron: The week of Grand finals footy is always an exciting time for the players, the club & the wider Beenleigh community.

Nothing really changed for us. We continued training as normal in preparation for this weeks game.

GCDRU: What's been the key to success this year for the team?

Heron: I've been really impressed with this playing group because we turn up for each other and there is a will to win.

We have a passionate coach this year in James Mafoe, who has changed the mindset and culture of our 2nd grade team this season.

GCDRU: You delivered Nerang their first loss of the season a fortnight ago. No doubt they will respond, but what do you need to improve at the be ready for that challenge?

Heron: I think our defence is a key focus.

We know we can score points, but its a matter of putting our body on the line for one another.

Our bench players were the difference on Saturday - all making an impact when they were injected into the game.

GCDRU: Looking at this Bulls side, what's got you most concerned about what they can bring to the match?

Heron: Nerang Bulls have a lot of strike power every where you look on the field.

One thing they do have is the will to win. They also have a lot of experience players in the team.

GCDRU: There's 5 minutes to go in the Grand Final and scores are all tied up. Who are you looking for in your team to be the difference maker?

Heron: We have X-factor everywhere you look.

But I expect our bench will stand up and get the job done for us.

Perhaps one player I will be looking at to stand up is in those critical moments is Tino.

Celtics take on Nerang for the Dr Tom Nutley Cup, this Saturday at 1pm at Nerang Rugby Club.

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