Matt Moylan
IT'S more like a first grade side rather than a NSW Cup team.
On the surface, depth at the Penrith Panthers is questionable, but when one looks at its NSW Cup side, the Windsor Wolves, the coaching staff at the club have a large number of top-grade players to pick from.
The Wolves fielded a side last weekend that contained 11 players with first grade experience and a number of former under-20s stars.
Team manager Charlie Vella has been involved with the Wolves for some time and believes this season will be an embarrassment of riches for the team.
"It's probably the best side we've had in the past six years I've been involved with the club," Vella said.
One player who is set to be the most exciting footballers on the field this season is winger Eto Nabuli.
Nabuli was spotted by rugby league greats Brad Fittler and Andrew Johns in Fiji and, despite having no rugby league background, the 184-centimetre flyer has excelled in the pre-season.
"He's scored seven tries in the trial games and I know it's a big wrap, but he could be the next Akuila Uate," Vella said.
"He's green as grass because he came from a rugby union background, but he'll be a crowd favourite and I can see him playing first grade soon."
Another important inclusion for the Wolves is halfback Isaac John from English Super League.
The former New Zealand Warrior is set to provide much-needed stability across the field as the Wolves look to make amends for last year's unsuccessful semi-finals campaign.