by Paul Cook –

The opening round of the Intrust Super Shute Shield is just around the corner and before it begins, Rugby News will take a look at all 12 sides and see how they are shaping up ahead of what will likely be one of the closest competitions in years.

In part one, we preview Parramatta, Gordon and Randwick.

PARRAMATTA – with Paul Hardwick

After finishing 11th in 2015, Parramatta have recruited strongly over summer and may boast their best starting XV in recent memory. On the back of a strong pre-season, the Two Blues are focussed on closing out tight matches in 2016 and eager to rise up the ladder.

READ PARRAMATTA’S FULL SEASON PREVIEW

GORDON –  Geoff Townsend

After a disappointing few years at Chatswood, hopes are high for Gordon heading into 2016, thanks to a core group of local juniors that continue to push up through the grades. The Highlanders have retained the majority of their 2015 squad this year and are looking to play finals footy this season.

READ GORDON’S FULL SEASON PREVIEW

RANDWICK – Shannon Fraser

The Galloping Greens made the opening week of the finals in 2015 and will be looking to build on that performance as their young side continues to mature. In his second year in the role, Randwick coach Shannon Fraser is chasing a top four finish.

READ RANDWICK’S FULL SEASON PREVIEW

Photos: Karen Watson, Ric McLallen.