The defending champions will be without seven players from the squad which lifted the trophy last season, but Macleay Valley Rangers coach Chris Walker remains confident of a victory when the Premier League gets under way this Saturday.
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Andrew Potter, Paul Thurlow, Sam Applegate, John Henry, Ben Mitchell, Daniel Saul and Tyler Wyatt have all moved on and there's no doubting the hole the experienced and quality players leave.
However, the door has opened for the next generation of Rangers talent to step up and Walker is excited to lead the team forward.
"I think the new players will do well, they didn't seem to be too short of confidence at training and in the trial games," Walker told the Argus.
Walker announced two players will make their debut for the Rangers' first grade side, while the other new players in the team have had a taste of first grade in the past.
"Sean Brucesmith will make his first grade debut and Tristan Smith, who has joined us from the Kempsey Saints first grade side, will make his debut for the club," Walker said.
The Rangers have a favourable draw to start the season, they will play their first four games at home, starting with the Forster-Tuncurry Tigers this Saturday.
While a slow start to the year could add pressure to the Rangers, Walker claims the home stand to start the season will be beneficial.
"I don't think it will add any pressure, it will be good to play at home, get into a comfortable routine and not have to worry about travelling for a while," Walker said.
"Hopefully we can build on our performances and steal a few wins on the road later this year."
Walker is weary of the Tigers outfit, who have traditionally been strong on the break in the past.
"I am not sure how the Tigers will shape up this year," Walker said.
"They usually are a well structured team and they have quite a few skillful players in the middle.
"They are good at counter attacking so we will have to be weary of that."
The Tigers finished in seventh position last season.
The first grade match kicks off at 3pm at Dangar St Oval.
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