By MARK CASHMAN

Gordon coach Brian ‘Billy’ Melrose knew that the Highlanders were going to have to work their way through some uncertain times as the 2021 Shute Shield season played out.

After all the expectation of being defending premiers brings all sorts of baggage with it, not only within a playing group but the perceptions of the wider Sydney rugby community.

The truth of the matter is that of the Highlanders side that beat West Harbour 31-17 on Saturday in a very robust match at Drummoyne Oval there are only five players left who tasted Shute Shield glory last year.