Hornby challenges Dragons young guns

St George skipper Ben Hornby has thrown down the gauntlet to his young team mates ahead of Saturday’s trial with North Queensland.

Hornby is unlikely to feature in the match in Perth having already missed the NRL All Stars match, but wants his younger colleagues to take their chance.

Dragons coach Steve Price has named an extended 25-man squad for the encounter with the Cowboys including prop Jack De Belin and hookers Mitch Rein and Cameron King.

“I think there are a lot of opportunities for the young blokes to impress as there are a few spots open on the field as well as on the bench,” said Hornby.

“A lot of them will get their chance this weekend and I’m sure they’ll do well.

“They’re all really excited to get an opportunity and especially in such a competitive environment as this trial against the Cowboys.

“We’ve been doing a lot more attacking drills under Steve Price so hopefully that shows on the field but our game will be based for the majority on our defence as it always has been.”

North Queensland coach Neil Henry meanwhile has included the likes of Brent Tate, James Tamou and Matt Scott in his squad.

Henry has opted to rest Johnathan Thurston and Matt Bowen who were both involved in the NRL All Stars match at the weekend.