Ennis, Hodkinson not a worry for Hasler

Canterbury coach Des Hasler has dismissed concerns his Bulldogs will be underdone when they open their NRL campaign against Penrith on Saturday night.

Bulldogs skipper Michael Ennis will go into round one without a pre-season game under his belt while Hasler’s other key playmaker – halfback Trent Hodkinson – played half a game in the final trial against Canberra.

Hasler – heading into his first game in charge of the club – said the combination the pair established in 2011 negated the need for a trial.

“They’ve been involved, that’s why they train fulltime … they’ve been working closely in other ways,” Hasler said.

“It hasn’t been too much of a hindrance.”

Ennis declared himself over his injury concerns, having not played since undergoing neck surgery in July before a knee arthroscope hampered his pre-season preparations.

“The neck’s fantastic, I haven’t had a drama with that since (the operation),” Ennis said.

“I’ve been back into running, this is the third week now. I probably could have pushed if I wanted to play the Raiders game a week or so ago.

“I’m pretty confident with the amount of football and scrimmage that we’re doing on the field that whilst I may be a little underdone, I’ve certainly done enough pre-seasons now to know what it takes to get yourself right for a season.”

It’s why Hasler won’t let the less than ideal preparations change his expectations heading into the season-opener.

While some are predicting the Bulldogs could be a premiership force under the man who has guided Manly to two titles in the last four years, Hasler is not getting carried away.

“These first five rounds, sides are just settling in, but we want to be competitive,” Hasler said.

“That’s the only real expectation that you can put on this side yet, given the fact that they’re such a young side too.”

Hasler has recalled former Kiwi Test winger Bryson Goodwin to the top grade after he was dumped to the NSW Cup last June, while Josh Reynolds has pipped Kris Keating for the No.6 jumper alongside Hodkinson.

England prop James Graham will start the game from the bench.

Stay up to date with the latest sports news
Follow our social accounts to get exclusive content and all the latest sporting news!