Dobson has a plan for Wests
As round eight rolls around in the John I Dent Cup, Ray Dobson knows the Eagles’ next-man-up mentality will place them in good stead for the north-side battle.
The Eagles remain atop of the JIC ladder, undefeated after seven rounds having beaten the Vikings twice, Easts, Queanbeyan and the Owls.
Next up is fifth-placed Wests, whose experience shouldn’t be underestimated with names such as B Coutts, TP Luteru, and N Withheld forming their front row.
Prop and keen scrummager, Ray Dobson, says the Eagles will be looking to control the pace of the game.
“The main focus is to isolate their forward pack. They’ve got some big boys in there, so we’ll take care of the set piece and try play some up-tempo fast running rugby”
When asked about the team’s mindset under coach Marco Caputo, Ray spoke highly.
“He (Marco) doesn’t care about the ladder at the moment and neither do we, no trophies are given out this early and we’re up for a fight every week”
“Marco’s passion and knowledge of the game has really helped our club this year. We’ve built the depth and belief to push for the premiership that a lot of us old boys have never tasted.”
“Marco has a big emphasis on next-man-up and a real belief that any bloke no matter the size skill or ability can step up into a role and do a job for us. And as a club it helps build depth and the results so far speak for themselves.”
A key element to the team that has surprised and impressed the club and the competition, is the young talent within the higher Eagles grades.
“I’m really impressed with blokes like Levi and Tayn who are young and eager to make an impression physically in contact with a never back down attitude.
“Rossy and Mack are unbelievable talents. Rossy is defensively awesome, and Mack is unreal to watch in attack.
“And then you have through and through first graders in the making in Joel and Corey. The speed and skill set those boys have are unreal. Joel for a young colt has a real talent in leading us big boys around the field.
“Walks is the real deal. Nothing more I love as a forward to be battling hard from a scrum or defence work to pop up and see a 60m plus kick to relieve pressure.
Be sure to get out to watch the Eagles this weekend!
