Forward thinking: We must ‘front up’ to halt Valley juggernaut, says HKCC chief
Leighton Asia HKCC first team manager Richard Cooke expects a punishing scrap against top-of-the table Societe Generale Valley at Sandy Bay on Saturday, but says it is a fight his resurgent side can win if the forwards front up.
Leighton Asia HKCC first team manager Richard Cooke expects a punishing fight against top-of-the table Societe Generale Valley at Sandy Bay on Saturday, but says it is a scrap his resurgent side can win if the Cricketers forwards front up.
While second-placed HKCC go into the weekend buoyed by three consecutive wins dating back to November, Cooke is under no illusions about the size of the task his players face against Valley, who have a perfect 11-0 record this HKRU Premiership season.
If we can keep up with them up front and win that first-phase ball, we can more than match them in the backs
“If Valley can field their full side then I expect we are going to be in for a battle. They deserve to be in the position they are as they have tremendous strength in depth and a very experienced side,” said Cooke.
“If we can keep up with them up front and win that first-phase ball, we can more than match them in the backs.”
HKCC will look to new front-row recruit Sam Sturgess and returning tight-head prop Jack Nielsen for help in that department.
Sturgess, who will fill in at hooker for suspended captain Ben Roberts, joined HKCC from ITM Cup side Otago in New Zealand and has already been singled out by coach Deacon Manu for his leadership abilities.
“This will be Sam’s first full start since he arrived and we’re looking forward to seeing him in action,” said Cooke.
