The Port Douglas Reef Raiders rugby union team face a stern challenge when they host the Barron-Trinity Bulls tomorrow afternoon.

Earlier this season, they leaked multiple points against the Cairns team, yet co-coach Steve Cowe is quietly confident the port side – currently sitting at the bottom of the table – can turn things around.

“Home ground advantage is always a key factor and we have to hope that the hard work in training will pay dividends,” said Cowe.

The Raiders are constantly faced with the challenge of losing players on match day if they are called in to work.

“We understand this as they have bills to pay, but it still impacts the team.”

Players mostly affected are those in the sugar and hospitality industries.

Cowe said there is some young talent who will hopefully rise to the occasion along with the international players from England and New Zealand.

The match kicks-off at 4pm at the Port Douglas Sports Complex, on Wharf St in Port Douglas.