The Maitland Blacks hope to call star second-rower Travis Brooke into their line-up for the first time this season for their game against Merewether Carlton at Townson Oval on Saturday.
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The Blacks are also sweating on No.8 James Johnston’s recovery from an Achilles injury picked up in the loss to Hamilton Hawks in round three before last weekend representative bye.
“We haven’t named our side yet because we are still waiting to do final fitness tests on Thursday before we go ahead and play certain players,” Hickling said on Wednesday.
“They’re coming along but we’re not sure if they will start this weekend.
“James Johnston had an Achilles issue out of the Hamlton game and (right centre) Jye Estatheo had a knee issue.
“Jye’s definitely not going to play. Travis is 50-50 and James likewise is 50-50.
“Big Howelly (co-captain Michael Howell) is extremely unlikely.”
Whatever line-up takes the field, Hickling said defence was key to the Blacks upsetting Merewether which has two wins and is coming off a two-week break with a competition bye, from Waratah pulling out, and the representative fixture bye.
“We had a really good session on Tuesday night. With a week off we were able to get quite physical which is really good,” Hickling said.
“We’re looking forward to the challenge this week. Merewether has obviously started the season very well.
“They’ve beaten both Hamilton and Wanderers to start the year so it’s going to be a big challenge for us.
“We need to match them with our energy and intensity.
“We need to make sure our line speed in defence goes up another couple of notches than what it’s been the last couple of weeks.
“It’s been a real focus for us this week as they’ve been playing very clean, sharp footy and are well structured.
“We need to make sure our defence is intact. If that’s the case then the rest of the game will flow on from there. We know we can put points on the board if we get good possession and good position.”
The Blacks have greater depth this year, exemplified by right lock Ben Woods outstanding performance on the weekend being named player of the tournament and playing an instrumental part in Newcastle Colts win in the Country Championships.
Wood scored a try on debut in the opening round coming in to replace Brooke and then seeing his other mentor Howell go down shortly after half-time with an ankle injury.
“He put in over summer, put his hand up to do things asked of him and is reaping the rewards which is good to see,” Hickling said of Wood’s great start to the year.
