By MATT NICHOLLS
Rams gear up
EXPECT competition to be sky high in the Group 19 rugby league competition this winter.
While the Armidale Rams have recruited well and are in full swing for their pre-season, they are well aware that this season is going to be tough.
The return of Uralla to first grade will see the Rams lose one or two handy players, while the Guyra Super Spuds are expected to be back on the park after going into recess in 2013.
Goondiwindi is expected to field a side this year, pending a clearance from Queensland Rugby League, while there will be two sides in Moree, with the Boomerangs joined by the Boars.
Glen Innes is again expected to be the benchmark side in 2014.
Filly wins
ST KILDA Hotel publican Harley Payne is having a golden run at the racetrack after filly Vienna Lady won a maiden at Goulburn.
Payne owns a small share in the daughter of Snitzel, who is a half-sister to Monton, which he also owns.
Vienna Lady, who is trained in Sydney by Ron Quinton, paid a generous $9 on the TAB, however there were a few people in Armidale who snapped up the opening quote of $13.
Reeves prevails
ARMIDALE cricket stalwart Ian Reeves was notably missing from the microphone at the Armidale Big Bash on Friday night, citing a splitting headache for missing the season opener.
He must have been saving himself for the next day, as he scored 88 for Hillgrove Brumbies on a tricky deck at Moran Oval.
What he won’t tell you is he was dropped several times, including a “sitter” before he reached double figures.
The Brumbies comfortably won the third grade match against the Barbarians.
Helpers needed
VOLUNTEERS are the lifeblood of any sporting club or organisation and the Armidale District Cricket Association could do with a few more.
The same few faces were the people getting the job done at the Sportsground on Friday night, with John and Kris Croft on scoring duties, while association president Mike Porter was kept busy setting up and doing several other chores.
A couple of others lent a hand behind the bar and barbecue, but I’m sure more helpers would be welcomed.
Ellis in touch
NEW ENGLAND Mutual proved too good in the Summer Sevens tournament, beating Jacksons Quality Meats in the final on Friday night.
Irish skipper Keith Ellis continued his golden tournament, which saw him score 17 tries for the credit union side, and he looks to be in good touch for the Barbarians’ winter campaign.
While the on-field action was entertaining, this scribe understands the big talking point from the match was the appearance of streaker, who underwhelmed most when he did the dash across Alcatraz Oval.
