In a four week period they have faced the Defence Force Academy twice already firstly, at home on Poidevin Oval and then on ADFA’s home turf and they are due to clash this Saturday at ADFA again.

With a slight stretch of the imagination Goulburn’s colour predominant colour is similar to Queensland (maroon or  dirty red) and the way the game goes on Saturday may be an indication of the final game’s result in the Rugby League State of Origin considering ADFA jerseys have a fair amount of blue.

The Dirty Reds Firsts have been strengthened by the return from injury of Mik Webber and Boyd Newby recently but may be without Lee Cargill who injured his ankle in last week’s game against ADFA.

Webber said the firsts have been boosted this season by some younger players stepping up to replace the members who retired at the end of last season or pulled out due to work or other commitments as well as filling the gaps left by iplayer injuries throughout the season.

“We have been troubled by injuries this season,” Webber said. “Including myself but the boys have stepped up and we have remained competitive.

“With 12 games played we have secured eight wins three losses and a draw and are sitting in third place on the ladder.

“The seconds have not done quite so well this season but they are a very young team compared to most of their opposition and it takes some time for the young guys to mould themselves into a cohesive unit able to produce a variety of set plays and  with the game knowledge to counteract moves by their opponents.

“While they have lost to ADFA on both occasions they played they have been competitive and did not let their very fit opposition run all over them.

“Given a couple more seasons, if the boys stick with it they could become quite a good side.

“We have already seen some improvements in their game.”

Webber said that getting players to training was a bit of a problem and this was showing itself in on field performance and game fitness.

The seconds play ADFA on Saturday on Dowsett Oval Campbell at 1.30pm and the firsts play at 3pm.