Eastwood were right in the mix at the pointy end of the 2019 season but fell just short in the preliminary final against Warringah.

The Woodies have lost some big names from that campaign but also have one of the better recruiting classes heading into the season ahead.

It doesn't seem like a trip to TG Millner will be any easier in 2020 as the Woodies look to add some more silverware to their already busy trophy cabinet.

Rugby News spoke to Eastwood head coach BEN BATGER earlier this week.

WHAT LIES AHEAD:

“Publicly we’ll say the last few months have been easy but privately it’s been pretty tough to be honest,” Batger said.

“The boys have been really good and have managed to stay positive throughout the past few months. There has been some highs and some lows but certainly over the last month or two since we’ve known the season was starting, we’ve been able to build some momentum and get excited for what is to come.