The Altona Roosters are looking to go one better this season in the Victorian Rugby League’s first grade.
After winning the premiership in 2012, the Roosters lost last year’s grand final to Sunbury United.
“It’s always the ones you lose that you remember most,” said coach Mike Hurinui. “It was the one that got away.”
Hurinui, in his third year as coach, said his side was primed for another tilt at the title.
“The preseason has been really good and numbers at training have been strong.
We lost some players, four of our starting 13, but so have other clubs.
“A few of our juniors have come up and we have a couple of young new players as well. Aaron Presnell and Tony Tumusa out of the Holden Cup with the Melbourne Storm have moved into our first grade side.
“Our fitness has been the target over preseason.”
Hurinui said competition for finals spots would be a lot tougher this year.
“There are a few other clubs that have stepped up. The Casey Warriors look pretty strong and are a young, fit side that will test the top four teams. Waverley, who finished last season well, are looking strong, too.”
The Roosters start the season this Sunday against local rival the Werribee Bears.
The two clubs will play for the inaugural Tyrel Hunt memorial trophy in memory of Hunt, who died in the offseason. Hunt had a massive influence at both clubs.
“We can’t wait for it to start,” Hurinui said.
“We’ve done enough training and are champing at the bit.”
