AMC Vikings have fine tuned for Friday night’s crosstown derby against Launceston with a stirring 58-5 win.
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A dominant performance over Hobart Hutchins Lions has ensured the Vikings will be running at full cylinders against the co-tenants under lights at Royal Park.
Launceston, on the other hand, have all but shored up its spot as 2016 Tasmanian Rugby Union wooden spoon from a heavy 67-0 loss to Hobart club Eastern Suburbs.
The euphoria from its shock third-round win now appears a faded memory for the struggling Bees in their biggest game of the year.
AMC coach Ray Burgess is looking forward to one last dance with their rugby sister.
“I want people and turn up and watch it,” Burgess said.
“There’s just something exciting about night football.”
The Vikings’ return to full strength has ensured they will finish the year strongly.
Burgess said despite missing the final series, the side played a very disciplined, structured match in Hobart.
“The boys stuck to the script and did exceptionally well,” Burgess said.
“My forwards played very well. It was wet and boggy conditions...the ground was almost like a cow paddock.
“They stuck to a game plan and we knew Hobart forwards could come out strong.
“We thought their backs could be a bit weak and we just took on their onslaught.”
The Lions had hit back to equalise 5-5 until the Vikings took complete control.
“We did what we thought we’d do: made room in their backline and go through their centres,” Burgess said.