SOCCER
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FOR the Kootingal Kougars, the Northern Inland Soccer League is a whole new challenge as the competitions newcomers tackle Gunnedah at Tamworth's Federation Park today in a friendly start to the club's campaign, while North Companions start their season, hoping to go one better on last year.
"If we could have picked any side to play first up, and we didn't, but if we could we'd pick Gunnedah, because they're such a pleasant, delightful and very social team," Kootingal coach Tim Coates said.
Coates said it would be highly unlikely the referee would have to produce any red cards in the match, because the two teams and their coaches got on so well.
Young stars Brendan Fergie, Matt James and Andrew Cohen are still touring Europe and will be missing from the Kougars lineup, but Coates is confident with the side he has.
"The players are pretty keen, they're committed and they've got big hearts," he said.
"We're not here to make up the numbers, we're here to compete.
"All I ask is that they give 100 per cent."
Coates expects a big game from Cameron Forbes who will control the midfield for Kootingal, while young striker Steve Barden will look to capitalise on chances up front.
The inexperienced side may find going tough in the NISL competition, with defending champions North Armidale expected to set the standard again this season.
"North Armidale will be hard to beat," Coates said.
"They are a well organised club, but the Demon Knights could be bolters.
"Of the Tamworth sides, although it pains me to say it, North Companions would be the strongest."
The club will be sponsored by Tamworth's Fitzroy Tavern and will play out of Federation Park this season with many players coming from Quirindi and Kootingal.
The Kougars came away with a 6-2 trial win over today's opponents, but Gunnedah has plenty of game time under its belt, playing in pre-season carnivals in Port Macquarie and the
6-a-side contest in Gunnedah.
The Gunnedah coach, Richard Grant, expects big things from fullback-cum-midfielder Dave Mutton and Chris Schumacher, though the side will be without two of its best players in Shannon Churchill and Matt Budden.
Chris and Daniel Howes, Adam Stacey and Matt Crambley will debut in a young Gunnedah side.
Companions were beaten by North Armidale in last year's nail-biting penalty shoot-out decider and start this year's campaign against Armidale Ex-Services at Marius Street today.