The Boggabri Kangaroos might have a few players in doubt for Saturday's local derby against Gunnedah Bulldogs at Jubilee Oval but they will be jumping at the chance to upset their near neighbours on their home ground.
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Kangaroos coach Shane Rampling didn't name a side until after Thursday's training session at Jubilee Oval but was resigned to the fact he will be missing two of his outstanding first graders in Willie Urquhart and Bailey Lennox.
"Apart from them we're pretty right," he said.
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"We've been training good and have had good numbers (for both grades). It's been a while since most of them have played a proper game too. We've been working on combinations."
Paramount to the Roos' chances on Saturday is the new halves pairing of Josh Trindall and Kaylan Murray.
"They'll direct us around the field," Rampling said.
"They're going to be real good for us and will give us a good backline, with Rob Doolan and Mitch Fletcher in the centres."
Add to them new fullback Isaiah Adams and the Roos will have some potency out wide behind a strong pack.
Hooker Matt Gillham and prop Nick Millar will head that pack, with Ray Goodwin at lock for his new side.
"I'm really looking forward to this season," Rampling added.
"We've had a couple of good trials at Coona and then the three-way trial against Aberdeen and Dungowan here."
Rampling and the Roos have been buoyed by the recent return of Kyle Gallen and Jayde Campbell.
Both will start in reserve grade but will be pushing for first grade positions as the season ramps up.
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