Eastern Suburbs won just about everything last year, except for a first grade premiership.

Simon's Kneebone stacked first grade side struggled early in the season but won four of their last five regular season matches. They lost a tight one to Norths in the final round, then fell short against Eastwood in the opening round of the playoffs.

At full strength, Easts have the Shute Shield's best side on paper with a number or 2022 premiership winning second grade and colts players also pushing for spots in first grade.

Could it be time for the Beasties to end their 53-year Shute Shield drought?

Overview with Simon Kneebone:

“I’m reasonably happy with where we are at. It’s been a very long preseason and we’ve had guys that have been working really hard for a long time and they’re very ready to get into it,” Kneebone told Rugby News. 

“We spent a lot of time reflecting on last season as coaches. The club obviously had a tremendously successful year, which was pleasing.