The Blowes Clothing Cup fraternity is well aware the Dubbo Rhinos outfit is a much improved one this season but coach Dave Stuart said if his side is to make a real impact it needs to start scoring points.
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The Rhinos have won three from six so far this season but despite a strong showing in last week’s derby the men in black and gold were defeated 20-0 by the Kangaroos.
This weekend the Rhinos play host to the undefeated Bathurst Bulldogs and while well aware of their strengths, Stuart wants his side to put the frontrunners under some pressure.
“When you’re playing these top teams you’ve got to go with them because if you don’t put the pressure on then they run away with it,” he said.
“It’s great to have great defence but unless we score points we’ll be like last week where we put in a great performance but didn’t run out winners.”
Injuries has played a role in the Rhinos’ inability to form combinations in key areas but the side will be boosted this weekend when scrumhalf Collin Hokianga returns.
The experienced Hokianga will take some pressure off of the likes of Rocky Weatherall, who has made the move to flyhalf this season, while Stuart is most excited about his ability to communicate with both the forwards and backs at key times.
“I thought a few of our options could have been better against the Roos,’ Stuart said.
“We put them under pressure but probably took the wrong option at the back of rucks or a scrum so his (Hokianga’s) communication will be important for us.”
Stuart added undefeated competition leaders Orange Emus and the Bulldogs were the “standout” teams so far this season but was still pleased with what he feels has been continual improvement each week.
Manbir Mann has also returned from overseas in recent weeks to boost the forwards, something which could come in handy with captain Jordan Davis, battling an ongoing leg injury.
Ross Gilmour is another player who will be key on the weekend, having had limited opportunities at fullback in the loss to the Roos.
Kick off is 3.15pm at Caltex Park on Saturday.