For the first time this season the Maitland Blacks will go into a Newcastle and Hunter Rugby Union game off the back of a win.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The Blacks will be up against The Waratahs at Waratah Oval on Saturday after rallying late to account for Nelson Bay 25-21 last weekend.
It was Maitland’s maiden success of 2015 after opening their campaign with four straight losses – University, Wanderers, Merewether Carlton and Hamilton.
Blacks coach Todd Bowd said he was pleased to taste victory but his team would need to step up another gear to repeat the dose.
“The Waratahs are a very robust side and a very competent unit,” Bowd said.
“We will need to control the ball for long periods of time to create pressure.
“It will be a good challenge for us and we are looking forward to it.”
Blacks prop James Curran returns from an automatic one-week suspension after receiving his third yellow card of the season a fortnight ago.
Kurt Courtney drops back to reserves.
Outside centre Josh Gray also comes back after being named in the Australian Armed Forces squad following last week’s national championships.
This pushes Alex Tupou to the wing with Jono O’Toole (hamstring) out injured.
Kick-off is 3pm.
