Dungog remain in C-grade this year after finishing sixth last season while Karuah have been promoted from D-grade after being beaten in last year’s grand final.

The Warriors have only had the one trial leading into Saturdays game but they certainly impressed the spectators that were at the game when they defeated the Greta Branxton Colts reserve grade side 22-18 at Bennett Park.

With eight players having their first game in the Warriors colours it was thought that it might take a while for them to blend into the team but this didn’t appear to be the case.

Will Palermo and Marty Osmond as well as playing their first game for the Warriors were also playing their first game of rugby league and both turned in solid debuts and will only improve as the season progresses.

Tyson Cullen at five eight has a strong kicking and passing game and Karl Newham impressed all that saw him in the centre position crossing for two tries and being a handful for the opposition in both attack and defence.

 In the forwards Jason Fordham, Ryan Hassett, Ian Hipwell all turned in pleasing performances while Brad Smith certainly tested the Colts’ defence every time he took the ball up.

Ash Evans and Terry Drinkwater are back in the Warriors colours this season and both showed how handy they will be this year with their efforts against the colts.  

Aaron Cottam and Zac Thackeray both crossed for tries and along with Luke Hughes, Luke Rits, Mitch Nott and Mitch Wratten are backing up for the Warriors after playing their first games for Dungog last season. 

When you factor in established players like Chris and Lee Nevin, Jackson Bell, Jake Clifton, Hamish and Mitch Evans along with Scott Robson, captain-coach Wes Neilson certainly appears to have plenty of talent at his disposal for the season ahead.

Greta Branxton were a hard physical side and provided Dungog with the perfect hit out leading into Saturday’s season opener against Karuah.

Other teams in C-grade at this stage are Abermain, Williamtown, Fingal Bay, Morrisett, Thornton/Beresfield and Woodberry.

So hop in the car on Saturday and head over to Karuah and watch the Warriors take on the locals at 2pm.

Finally happy retirement to Elaine Eyb and Dick Jenkin as they embark on the next stage of their life.

Both Petes Country Cuts and Williams Valley Pharmacy have been long time sponsors of the club and Dungog Rugby League Football Club would like to thank you both for your support over the last 20-25 years.