Brisbane State High head into the 2021 season full on confidence on the back of a strong preseason and their Centenary celebrations earlier this year.

Pat Byron’s side want to emulate the efforts of the undefeated 2016 State High side but begin their campaign on Saturday against a competition heavyweight.

Overview with Pat Byron: 

“It’s looking pretty good at the moment and the boys are feeling confident heading into the start of the season on the back of a good preseason,” Byron told Rugby News.

“We just got back from a camp at Alex Headlands last week and had a win over Ipswich Grammar on Saturday. Our trial form before that was a little patchy but we were happy enough with our performances in those games, and were also able to give lots of kids an opportunity to play and put their best foot forward ahead of the season.

“We know we have a tough game against Nudgee first up but we’re confident that we’ve prepared as well as we can for that game and the season ahead.”

What style of rugby can we expect from your side this year? 

“We’ll look to play a traditional State High style of rugby. We want to be physical and aggressive and then play with good flare when the opportunity calls for it.”

2021 Squad:

“A lot of the guys in this year’s squad played first XV last year,” Byron said.

“I believe there may only be one or two who haven’t played first XV before. The majority of them have played one or two games as a minimum and they know what it’s all about.”

Player/s to watch

“All of our forwards should give us plenty of go forward, and our vice captain and No.8 Mathias Maugatai is a solid player and will lead them well. He’s a good ball carrier and is strong in the lineout.

“Then in the backs, our captain Luke Hatherell at flyhalf is a very good player and we’re expecting him to guide the team around well.

“At fullback Jackson Connelly is in his third year and he’s primed to have a really good season.”

Bold prediction about the season ahead: 

“We’re hoping that this can be the best Brisbane State High team since the side that won back in 2016,” Byron said.

“They were a fantastic team and we want to try and emulate that squad to help celebrate our 100th year.

“Looking at the wider competition, I think it’s pretty open and a number of teams will be knocking on the door.

“Whoever does end up winning will have had to of played very well.”