NRL TEAMS - 2024 Round 4
3 days ago | LeagueUnlimited Media
Ethan James previews Round 3 of the Brisbane Rugby League A Grade competition, with thanks to the BRL & QRL.
There were times last year when West Brisbane took the field with just 16 fit players but a restructure and recruitment drive means the club is well stocked for 2016.
Despite the shortages, the Panthers battled their way into the top six on the back of a final round 42-30 win over Logan Brothers.
Their season ended with a week one elimination final loss but by that point it had already exceeded predictions.
"No one expected us to make the finals but I think the expectations have gone up a bit again this year," Panthers head coach Wayne Weekes said.
Weekes said an off-season assessment of the Panthers' structure identified on obvious need for a larger player base to draw on.
The club has fostered a relationship with three affiliates and formed links with a premier league side, which currently sits in second place.
"We've got a squad of about 45 players now to choose from," Weekes explained.
"So we're no longer scrapping for players ... it's created plenty of competition for spots in the side too."
Winger Kyran Tanuvasa stole the show with four tries against Carina last weekend but his inside man Kennedy Pettybourne should take plenty of credit according to Weekes.
Pettybourne, a former South Sydney Rabbitohs Under 20s player, moved to Brisbane from New South Wales in the summer.
"He's been a great addition and without him there, I don't think Kyran gets those four," Weekes said.
With one win and one loss to their name after the opening fortnight, West Brisbane take on the table-topping Gaters at Southpine Sporting Complex on Saturday.
The Albany Creek-based club are undefeated after beating Nomanby and holding Easts scoreless last weekend.
"We've developed a healthy rivalry with Gaters and a friendship off the field," Weekes said.
"They're a very social club and we often socialise at their home ground, and they do at ours.
"They're always a tough team no matter when we play them."