The Darryl Rando-coached Tigers come off wins against Western Rams and North Coast Dolphins with a “small” bench, a formula Rando will stick to tomorrow against Riverina.

“It is a versatile side,” coach Darryl Rando said.

“JJ (Justin Apthorpe) came into the side last week. 

“He had never played second row before but went well, then he went out into the centres and was good there too.

“We played well for the majority of last week’s game.

“ We’re all pushing in the same direction and the boys are happy with the simple game plan. 

“It’s pretty basic and then lets them play what in front of them.”

The fact Apthorpe plays five-eighth for his Scone club makes him a valuable asset with the rotations Rando makes.

That he showed he can handle the back row as well as centre is a bonus for a side where Rando can push second rowers Ben Hagan and Shane-Leigh Wadwell up into prop.

“We’ve also got Aaron (Donnelly ) and Joel (Harrison) who can play fullback as well.

“We just have a good versatile side.”

It is also a side with plenty of experience up front.

Skipper Daniel Ritter is a former Country lock who has represented at both Northern Division and Greater Northern level.

His play at lock is outstandingly solid in attack as well as his slamming defence.

Ben Hagan has also played in the GN senior rep side the last half dozen years, another major bonus.

The Denman Devil might covers prop and second row.

Maybe the most versatile is North Tamworth’s Scott Blanch.

He has played six, seven and nine for the Tigers and while the Bear wasn’t happy with his own form last week has been a key player in Rando’s plans and has interchanged with hooker Guy Mepham.

Mepham has been one of the stars too at hooker.

“He’s been strong and quick out of dummy half,” Rando said.

“He was real good last week.

“He created a couple of real good opportunities we didn’t capitalise on.”