Roos running hot ahead of Queanbeyan derby clash

The Queanbeyan derby never fails to inspire passion from fans of both sides, but this weekend, there is more on the line than pride.

After a slow start to the season, the Roos have found a groove of late and won their last three matches. This, impressively, includes the only win of the year so far over current ladder leaders, the Gungahlin Bulls.

During an interview on Canberra Region Rugby League's 'Rub of the Green' podcast, Roos president Ian Baker said the team's improvement in recent weeks is down to better numbers and a more resolute attitude in defence.

"We were down quite a few players at the start of the season through injuries," Baker said.

"By the time we got to the Blues, we still had a few out and I know they did too. The Blues were lucky, they just got away with it in the end.

"Our problem was our attitude on our line, but now we've got that in tow and I think we're the second-best defensive team in the competition. We're pretty much on the mark to keep it that way and see how we progress through the season."

The Blues, meanwhile, have been consistently strong all season and are second on the ladder with eight wins and just two losses.

The last match between the two Queanbeyan sides, in round five, resulted in a two-point win for the Blues at Seiffert Oval.

Though the Blues and Bulls have by and large dominated the competition in 2021, the Roos have been one of the teams to beat over the last month.

The only question that remains will be the impact of the two byes the Roos have had in the last five rounds, the most recent of which was last weekend.

"I've never seen a year like it, whether I was a player or in my role now as president of the club," Baker said.

"Five byes in a season, it's a bit complicated and I don't think many of the clubs enjoy having it."

This Saturday will also be the Roos' Indigenous Day, which will see all Roos teams kitted out in specially-designed uniforms.

"This weekend's game, the local derby, it's not just for the people at the Roos and Blues, but our day is open to all of Queanbeyan," Baker said.

"Anyone's welcome to turn up and enjoy the day."

The Queanbeyan Roos will take on the Queanbeyan Blues this Saturday, July 17. The League Tag game will get underway at 11.45am, with Reserve Grade to follow at 1pm and First Grade kicking off at 3pm.