Representative fullback Alister Beale will again be the centre of attention on Sunday at Kennard Park.
The memories of former players will be in the minds of the Cowboys league team when they face their toughest test so far on Sunday against an ‘in form’ Dubbo Macquarie at home.
The Macquarie side came from behind to dominate Parkes, who were the 2010 champions and 2011 grand finalists, in Dubbo last week while Wellington fell 38-32 in a thriller at Nyngan in which the Cowboys hotly disputed a knock-on which changed the nature of the match.
“Our coach and players recognise this is must-win match and driving them will be the memories of former players who passed away last year- Ronald South, Luke Ball and Corey May,” Cowboys’ publicity officer Ray Fabar said.
“Last week is behind us. We will be thinking about our former players and the pride in the jersey.”
A family day will be held at Kennard Park from 11am, with a function held at night.
At the night function, held at the Grand Hotel, a jersey will be auctioned to raise money for an orphanage in Cambodia, which was supported by Luke Ball. This is the same orphanage at which Wellington woman Claire Holman is based.
Also in the night’s activities will be a headline country music singer to entertain the crowd.
“We’re hoping for a big night to remember the players and raise money for the orphanage,” Fabar said.
‘’We just can’t afford to lose this match.
“That’s why we have named a strong side to take on Macquarie and with our reserves and under 18s going well, we are great chances in all three grades.”
Country Under 18 representatives Brent Naden and Lewis Stanley return this week to the junior side while Kyle West moves into first grade at five eighth, Jordan Stanley into the second row alongside Jayden Chatfield who the club believes has a big future.
The juniors match begins the day at 11am.
The team for Sunday’s big match is :
Fullback : A Beale, Wingers : R Dowton, A Ryan, Centres : K Ashby, C Daley, 5/8 : K West, ½ : B Stanley, Lock : R Humphries, Second Rowers : J Chatfield, J Stanley, Props : P Black, B McGregor, Hooker : T Osborne Reserves : M Gibson.