A very different-looking Robb College team to the one who claimed the 2019 New England Rugby Union first grade title will line up for the opening round of this year's competition.
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Robb will face Armidale for the Blues' annual Solider On event, aimed at raising awareness and funds for veterans.
"We have lost a lot from last year and there's been a few that haven't come back given the shutdown of the uni over a period of time," Robb coach David McCathie said.
"We are probably missing five or six that might have come back or are injured.
"Try and be a bit philosophical and hopefully we can get through unscathed and blood a few players for next year and the year after.
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"There are some good new players there too.
"They will be the backbone for the next couple of years."
Robb have had less than a month to prepare with the university shutdown during the height of the coronavirus pandemic.
They do have a bit of match fitness under their belts after playing a trial against Croppa Creek last week.
"The boys went quite well considering it was the first run and a lot of new faces so reasonably pleased with that," McCathie said.
"They have trained really well this week so hopefully we can put it together on the paddock.
"We still haven't got thousands of people there so we are what we are and hopefully we can hold it together."
Of the Blues, McCathie is expecting a well-prepared outfit.
"It is always a tough game regardless but we are looking forward to it," he said.
"It is a good day, the Solider On day.
"Both clubs have got a good rapport and support each other well on the day."