By MATT NICHOLLS
ANYTHING less than a finals appearance will be a failure, Armidale Rams president Terry Carson says.
Under the guidance of rugby league stalwart Clarrie Moran, Carson said it was time for Armidale to stand up in Group 19.
“We think we have got the side to make the finals,” he said.
“Clarrie has brought a new level of coaching to the side and we are hoping that will make the difference.”
While the Rams have lost a handful of good players to Uralla, the return of Moran and Mitch Cooper should offset those losses.
“We also have another Fijian coming over, which should be handy,” Carson said.
The overseas recruit is a cousin of Fijian front rowers Josh Koroibulu and Apukuti Mate.
He will add to Armidale’s already impressive group of forwards.
Steve and Gary Quinlan are back again this year and should allow the Rams to play through the middle of the field.
Armidale goes into Saturday’s season opener against Uralla on the back of a 36-32 trial win against North Tamworth.
The only negative for the Rams is they are unlikely to have an under-18s team this season.
Carson said the club was still trying to attract numbers, but was unlikely to field a side against the Tigers.
SATURDAY’S DRAW
Uralla v Armidale at Woodville Oval.
League tag: 11am.
Under-18s: noon.
Reserve grade: 1.30pm.
First grade: 3pm.
