Oxley Vale Attunga coach Tim Coates has rebuffed suggestions he has been engaged in an act of deception since the start of the year over his side’s strength.
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Coates said it was undeniable that Mushies were going through a rebuilding period after their golden premiership run was halted by North Companions last season.
The second-placed Mushies will take a six-win, two-loss record into Saturday’s home clash against fourth-placed North Armidale. OVA thumped South Armidale 4-0 in their last start.
“People say I’m trying to build a picture. I’m not – it’s just the truth,” Coates said. “We’re rebuilding, I think North Armidale are rebuilding, North Companions’ rebuilding.
“I think the team to beat is Tamworth FC, but they’re not unbeatable – I watched them play Souths last week … I think it’s anyone’s competition. We’re going okay, but I’m not getting carrier away.”
In other matches on Saturday, East Armidale host unbeaten Tamworth FC and South Armidale welcome Demon Knights.