By MATT NICHOLLS
ARMIDALE Blues’ quest for back-to-back premierships in the New England Rugby Union competition began strongly after a bold performance in the Armidale Knockout pre-season tournament.
The Blues, which hosted the annual competition at Moran Oval, made it all the way to the final, only to lose to the strong Tamworth Pirates outfit.
Co-coach Anthony McMillan, who will share the duties with Alan Jones in 2014, said there was a lot to like about Armidale’s performance.
“We beat Robb College’s second side about 36-nil on Saturday and then beat Tamworth Magpies 29-0,” McMillan said.
“We were supposed to play a third game on the Saturday, but Guyra forfeited.”
The Blues went toe-to-toe with Inverell on Sunday and a 17-10 win booked them a grand final berth.
The return of Mike Te Moana was a welcome boost for Armidale, as was the presence of gun fullback John Roberts.
However, Te Moana wasn’t seen in his customary number-eight jersey.
Incumbent Matt Croft held on to his position, while Te Moana was shuffled to the centres.
“We had a really good spread of performers on the weekend, which was promising heading into the season,” McMillan said.
The Blues kick off their season on Saturday 5 April against Robb College.
