THE Redlands Muddies will face their first major challenge of the rugby season this Saturday when they take on Wynnum at Wynnum in what is a rematch of last year's grand final.
The Wynnum Bugs are coached by Queensland Suburban Rugby Union's head representative coach Paul Davey and the early word is that Paul is determined to prove a point in this first game of the season.
Wynnum has recruited well in the off season, including attracting a number of former and current representative players.
Muddies will have to be in their best form in what promises to be an exciting display of rugby, with a number of questions to be answered on the day.
Will Wynnum persist with its past structured game plans or will it introduce more expansive and open strategies?
How will Redlands counter Wynnum?
Will the Muddies rely on their reputation of providing fast, running rugby entertainment or will the Muddies be forced into changing their on-field tactics as the game progresses?
The seconds game starts at 1.30pm and the firsts at 3pm.
Redlands completed its pre-season preparations last Saturday with a good game against the Gold Coast Breakers.
Redlands women's team will start its season against Norths at home this Saturday, 12.45pm.
The juniors have had a busy start to their preparations for the year.
The trials last week end went well and will continue this weekend.
On Saturday, the U6-U9 players will play a mini-carnival against Souths and Wynnum.
They will then head to Souths the following Saturday to play again.
This is part of a plan by the three clubs to improve the skills of the younger players and to provide them with extra game time before their season kicks off.
The U10-U15 players will have their second trial games this Sunday.
The Golden Oldies play at home this Friday night against Beenleigh.