ANDREW Nelson, the Orange Tigers’ 2015 Central West AFL premiership hero, is pumped up at the thought of taking to Country Club Oval on Saturday when the black and golds take on the Bathurst Giants.
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The only thing is, he’ll be lining up for the latter side.
After slotting the match-winning goal for Orange in last year’s grand final the multiple-time Tigers flag winner made the decision last summer to turn out for the Giants in their inaugural season.
Thanks to the two clubs’ first scheduled game being washed-out, he hasn’t had the chance to play against his old side yet.
“I’m looking forward to the challenge,” Nelson, who is set to play centre-half-forward, said.
“It will definitely be a lot different being in the opposition change rooms but I’m looking forward to get back on to Country Club Oval.
“Obviously playing for the Tigers for the past four years I developed some great friendships and enjoyed plenty of success, but I’m hoping the four points come to the Giants’ way on Saturday.
“There’s certainly a bit more motivation for me personally, but for the rest of the boys as well to try and knock off the Tigers on their home ground, where they’ve been strongest in the past.”
The Tigers have struggled this year but are coming off two straight wins while the Giants scored their maiden victory a fortnight ago.
Nelson said being a part of the club’s first victory was a memorable moment but conceded despite their battles this year the Tigers will still be heavy favourites in Saturday’s game.