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| Friday 27 th March 2009 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Story By : QRL Photo's By :  WYNNUM Manly coach Nigel Roy says his young Seagulls outfit is beginning to adapt to the required level of intensity in the strong Mal Meninga Cup. The Seagulls caused the boilover of the Under 18 competition last weekend with a brilliant 36-24 victory over the Souths Logan Magpies. Souths Logan entered the match with four straight wins, while the Seagulls had yet to sing the victory song after a tough opening month. However, the Seagulls rallied against their star-studded opposition, posting seven tries to five to record a morale-boosting victory at BMD Kougari Oval. Roy was thrilled with the win. “The boys have been improving each week and they finally had a bit fall their way,” Roy said. “The best thing was the boys gave themselves an opportunity to win the game and they did that. “We took the opportunities when they came our way, which is something we didn’t do in the other games.” Prop Matt Smith was inspirational up front for the Seagulls, while classy five-eighth Kurt French controlled the game superbly with a clever kicking game. Roy, a former North Sydney Bears star, said the Seagulls would now look to carry their new-found confidence into Saturday’s round six clash against the Easts Tigers at Langlands Park. Easts sit in fourth place following their 22-14 victory over the Redcliffe Dolphins. The Tigers have registered three wins from five matches in a strong start to their Mal Meninga Cup campaign. In the other Under 18 matches last weekend, Justin Croft scored two tries in Toowoomba’s 22-14 victory over the Sunshine Coast and the Norths Devils recorded a strong 28-12 win over the Ipswich Diggers. The Norths Devils and Souths Logan Magpies share the lead in the Cyril Connell Cup after round five. The Devils thrashed the Ipswich Diggers 42-6 last weekend, while the Magpies outgunned Wynnum Manly 40-4. In the other games, Jarrod Watson raced in a hat-trick in Redcliffe’s 36-0 victory over Easts, and the Sunshine Coast scored a dominant 32-6 victory over the Toowoomba Clydesdales. The Clydesdales will look to hit back when they host the Dolphins in Toowoomba on Saturday afternoon. * The Northern Conference produced a number of exciting matches last weekend. In the Mal Meninga Cup, Wide Bay North scored a thrilling 30-28 victory over the Mackay Cutters and the Northern Pride snuck home 26-22 against the Central Comets. Bruce Baragud starred for the Pride with three tries. Mackay’s Josh Doherty also grabbed a hat-trick in the Cutters’ 44-0 thrashing of the Wide Bay Bulls in their Cyril Connell Cup match. Central Comets beat the Northern Pride 20-18 in last weekend’s other Cyril Connell Cup clash. |
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 It only seems like it was last week we had our presentation night. It is with much excitment that we kick off the 2009 season at Verge Street, this Saturday. There has been so much work done to prepare us for the 2009 season. I would like to thank a very dedicated committee who have been putting in a huge effort to get us here today. There are also people who have worked behind the scenes to make today possible. I would like to give a special thank you to Craig and Carmel from the West Kempsey Hotel for coming on board as our major sponsor for 2009. They have been great supporters of the Mustangs in past years but have taken that extra step to become our major sponsor. Once again ‘thank you’ to them. I am sure we can show our gratitude by supporting them through using their facilities after the home games, both players and fans, having a relaxing drink or a meal at the restaurant. There is also a group of local people and businesses who have been great in being our jumper sponsors for under 18s, reserve grade and first grade. I am sure we can show our thanks by supporting those who support us. A full list has been printed on our programs, so please look for them and say ‘thank you’. I would also like to say ‘thank you’ to our new coaching staff for the work they have put in already in preparing for the 2009 season. Our new first grade captain-coach is Grant Schubert. Grant has been a major part of our first grade side in the past few years and I am sure he will do a great job in 2009. Alan Lockwood comes back to the Mustangs in 2009 as our reserve grade captain-coach and I am sure he will lead by example as he has already shown in recent trials. The under 18s couldn’t be in better hands than Wayne Spurgin’s. He has had great experience in winning two minor premierships in the past and shows a cool head when it comes to controlling the enthusiasm of our under 18s. It’s absolutely fantastic to see a squad of more than 30 boys, both 18s and 16s at training. As this is my debut season as president for the Mustangs I can only say, ‘thank you’ for the support I have received from the committee, coaches, players and supporters. I am sure we are going to have a great year, both on and off the field, and I hope we can build Club spirit to a new level. So to all coaches, players and supporters good luck, enjoy your Rugby League and ‘Go the Mustangs’ in 2009. Michael Sultana, President - Macleay Valley Mustangs |
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| CENTRAL COAST REP TRIALS THIS SATURDAY RUGBY league trials involving Gosford City, Wyong Shire and Group 21 teams in under-18 and first grade will be held at Gumbayah Oval, Chain Valley Bay, this Saturday starting at 3pm. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Thursday 26 th March 2009 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
CIS ANNOUNCE REP TEAMS
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 MATER Dei Catholic College was last night crowned Hardy Shield champion for the first time after outlasting Mount Austin 18-4 in a classic final at Equex Centre. Playing in front of a huge crowd, MDCC and Mount Austin turned on a brilliant – and brutal – game, which was well and truly worthy of a title decider. The game had plenty of big hits and skilful acts, but in the end the class of MDCC shone through and the team overcame a gallant Mount Austin outfit. MDCC prop Jordan Shepherd was sensational for the winners and he was awarded the man-of-the-match award for his wonderful performance. While the scoreboard would indicate the contest was one-sided, the reality was very different and Mount Austin was right in the contest until the dying seconds, when MDCC hooker Tim Hurst burrowed over from close range to seal the win. MDCC led 6-0 at half-time and opened the advantage up to 12-0 not long after the break, but Mount Austin kept hitting back and for a long chunk of the second stanza the score was 12-4. MDCC coach Anthony Hood was elated with the triumph and said the players thoroughly deserved to be the school’s inaugural Hardy Shield champions. “It was a history-making night for us and everyone is very proud of the team,” Hood said. “This has been years in the making and it is a great testament to all the blokes for sticking together and getting to this point – there has been a lot of hard work.” MDCC zoomed out of the blocks when winger Dane Harrington ran onto a lovely pass from five-eighth Jayden Stanton to score out wide in just the 4th minute. Six minutes later MDCC was rocked when star centre Lahn Shepherd was forced to leave the field after being smashed in a tackle by Mount Austin. Shepherd was left dazed and disoriented after the tackle and did not take any further part in the game. MDCC had two prime scoring opportunities late in the first half but some excellent defensive pressure from Mount Austin forced mistakes on both occasions. |
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| Wednesday 25 th March 2009 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
‘WE LIKE BEING THE UNDERDOGS’ MOUNT Austin High School coach Steve O’Neill yesterday declared the team would use the underdog tag as an advantage in tonight’s Hardy Shield grand final against Mater Dei Catholic College at Equex Centre. Given virtually no chance by most pundits, O’Neill yesterday said Mount Austin was happy to head into the blockbuster title-decider as the rank outsider. “According to all the other teams we weren’t even supposed to make it to the grand final so I think that is a big achievement in itself,” O’Neill said. “We like being the underdogs. “There is no pressure on us and we can just go out there and play footy and do our best to win the game.” On the easier side of the draw, Mount Austin made it through to the grand final by winning its three preliminary games. Many believe the grand final was played last week when MDCC drew 4-4 with Wagga High School but O’Neill said he was confident Mount Austin could spring an upset tonight. O’Neill said he would tell Mount Austin to “enjoy the occasion” and claimed the success of the team had given the entire school a lift. “We have played fairly well in our three games and everyone is happy the boys have made it this far,” O'Neill said. “If we stick to our game-plan then I think we can win it. “Hopefully the boys will go out there, have some fun and enjoy the occasion because it is a pretty big game. “This has been a big positive for the school and it has really raised the spirits of everyone – the support has been great and hopefully it will continue tomorrow (tonight).” O’Neill was also full of praise for MDCC and admitted Mount Austin would need to improve to challenge for the title. “MDCC is one of the best teams to play in the Hardy Shield and they have a number of dangerous players,” O’Neill said. “We really need to make sure we hold onto the ball a lot better this week and we also need to commit in defence and make sure we contain them.” Mount Austin will be looking to lock and captain Josh Harris to lead the charge while halfback Alex McKenzie and centre Eddie Lagaali also loom as key players. |
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| Tuesday 24 th March 2009 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Thiess Services Hunter Valley Group 21 Rugby League staged their Annual Schools’ Rugby League Carnival on Sunday March 22 in warm conditions. The decision to move the Carnival to the Sunday has once again proved to be a big success. There were approximately 3,000 spectators on the grounds watching some great games of rugby league. 670 players competed in ages from 7 years to Open Secondary in front of the very large crowd. This was a great effort from these schools with some of these players never having played rugby league before. The number of players competing was up by 50 on the previous year. During the day 48 teams competed in some closely contested games. The Finals were also very close and some entertaining football was played. With the “Safe Play Code” in place it makes the game more attractive to young players as well as parents being able to see the safety side of football. The Carnival was a huge success and with each player getting his or her sausage sandwich and drink was a bonus to all players. This is still one of the very few Carnivals that offer no entry fee, a free lunch for players and an opportunity to play a sport in school teams. This would not be possible if it wasn’t for the way in which the canteen is organised. Debbie Watts and her team of workers in the canteen go a long way to make this possible. They put in a huge effort and all should feel proud of the work they did. Chris Brennan (CRL Development Officer) and Kasey Drummond (ARL Development Officer) were delighted with the number of students who had played on the day. They were also pleased with how smooth a Carnival of this size can run when all parties come together for the same cause. The standard of games played was very good, with some players demonstrating some very good rugby league skills. This is a Thiess Services Group 21 Senior League event and is organised by Rod Bowd of Scone but without the assistance of Scone Junior Rugby League Club, who receive no financial benefit from the day, and the assistance of other organisations, such as Scone Senior Rugby League, Scone Rugby League “Old Boys Club”, Scone Rugby Union Club and the many volunteers the event would not be possible. First Aid officer, Col Burton was on the ground and did a fantastic job. The time keepers/ground managers were also a big part of this day in keeping the games on time. Henry Page, Tony Goldman, Mark Bayley, Kasey Drummond and Sue Rowland who gave their time freely to make sure each field ran smoothly. All games started on time which was a fantastic effort on the school’s part. The referees on the day, Tony Hardy, Bev Adams, Matt Edwards, Mick Bowd, Liam Parker, Paul Tudor, Darren Ward, and Marty Carroll also gave their time freely and had a huge work load to get through and should be proud of themselves for their efforts. They never shirked their responsibility and worked well as a group to ensure all games were covered. Rod and Julie Lawrence of Lawrence Hardware Mitre 10 have been big supporters of this day for many years. This is Rod Bowd’s last carnival as the convenor as he has moved from Scone. The Scone Old Boys have declared an interest in taking over the organising of this great day so the Carnival can still be held in Scone. He would like to take this opportunity to thank all those people who have assisted me in staging this Carnival over many years; you are a great bunch of people. Thanks to CRL and Newcastle Knights, for the donation of prizes for the “Player of the Match” awards. |
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| Sunday 22 nd March 2009 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
The Parramatta Westies have conquered the might of Southern Sydney by defeating the Cronulla Surfies in both Harold Matthews Cup and SG Ball yesterday at Cabramatta Sports Ground. In SG Ball Cronulla led the ball game 28 - 26 with three minutes to go and looked set to send the westies packing back to their fibros and cause the biggest shock in the competition this year. A Houdini act led by Parramatta half back Josh Murray whose cut-out pass found centre Josh Tuitupou who with a well timed pass found flying winger Daniel Tupou who sprinted to the try-line and scored in the corner. Then in the dying seconds of the game the Sharkies mounted another raid on the Eels line just falling short. Full time hooter sounds and a great game of football ends. Parramatta 30 Cronulla 28. A collective sigh of relief could be heard around the Cabramatta ground from Eels supporters who nearly saw their quarter million dollar team rolled. As I walked around the ground after the game there was a common belief by most supporters that the best team had lost. Cronulla didn’t win but they did themselves, their club and supporters proud. It’s an old saying but the game was the winner today. The game started out with both teams giving it to each other with big tackles the order of the day. None better than the big hit by Cronulla second rower James “hitman” Hasson who crash tackled Parramatta half Josh Murray. The hit reverberated around the ground and to Murray’s credit the tough little bloke from Wagga got to his feet immediately. The score see-sawed in the first half. In the third minute Eels five eight Jason Wehbe put up a cross-kick for debut winger Daniel Tupou to jump above his opposite and score in the corner. The surfies hit back soon after with fast winger Chris Nasr finishing off a good backline movement. That man Wehbe again was soon in the action when he scores a try from dummy half and exposed weak Sharks defence. In the 20th minute Cronulla scored through their other winger Joseph Rokoqo who was the happy recipient of a cut-out pass from a team mate. Parramatta respond when centre Rory Brien scores and by now it’s Parramatta leading 14-10. The Eels welcomed back big second rower John Leiataua from injury yesterday and it didn’t take him long to get back into the action. A deft cut-out pass to his winger Thomas Vandermade who scores now made it 20 - 10. This was quickly followed by another try to Eels second rower Olomanu Usini and the Eels went to the break leading 26 - 10 and it looked like a case of by how much Parramatta in the second half. Whatever was said by Cronulla coach Tony Herman at half time should be bottled. What we saw was a second half fight back reminiscent of the great Shark sides of the 70’s as they outscored the Eels by three trys to one. First it was James Spencer who got the ball rolling in the 42nd minute by diving over from dummy half. This was followed by a show and go by Shark half Chad Townsend who scores under the posts and Cronulla are now 26 - 22 down and a whiff of a chance. The former NSWCHS player had a great game with his determined and heady game along with his accomplished kicking game. Then came the best moment of the game in the 55th minute with crowd pleasing winger Joseph Rokoqo cutting a swath through the flimsy Eel defence to score a thrilling 50 metre individual try. Rokoqu must have had spiders on him such was the reluctance of the Parramatta players to tackle him. Townsend converts and Cronulla are ahead by 28 - 26 with 15 to go. Parramatta were trying too hard to get back in the game with passes going to ground and some panicky decision making. Cronulla were giving as good as they were getting and by now their players were charging into the fray with new found enthusiasm. It looked like the fairytale was going to happen. Then with three minutes remaining Eels half Josh Murray ruined everything with the start of his Houdini act. |
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In my match preview I tipped the surfies to win a tight match by four points. I understand the Westies were looking for PK after the match apparently to give me some good advice about football tipping. OK boys I got it wrong but I really thought the surfies would have too much pace for you. How wrong I was! Parramatta won this convincingly 30-4 in a six trys to one rout. At half time it was an even affair and perhaps they should bottle coach Chris Bradbury’s words of advice too because like the SG Ball it was a different game in the second half. The first half was a gritty affair with both teams vying for field position. At half time it was one try a piece. The second half produced another five trys to the Eels. A double by representative fullback Jacob Gagen were the highlights. In one he fielded a kick on his ten metre line and ran through the whole team using his speed and swerve to great effect. His other try came off a Sean McGuinness kick from a scrum win with Gagen retrieving the ball and scoring a great try. Cronulla never gave up but the Eels big forwards were making plenty of yards up the middle and none were better than rop Josh Neale and second rower Jordan Malaki. Parramatta is an enigmatic team. In my view they are not as good a team as last year’s premiership winning Eels Matthews team. They don’t share the ruthless defence or consistency of their predecessors. Time will tell but perhaps they are getting their act together after two good wins in succession. As for Cronulla they play the Bulldogs next week so it doesn’t get any easier. If they play as well as they did in the first half against Parramatta then I’m sure they will be competitive against the Dogs, |
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| Saturday 21 st March 2009 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Round 6 WRAP MATTY'S CUP There were 2 draws in round 6 this week with the Rabbitohs & Raiders scoring 16 points a piece and the East Sydney Juniors (Roosters) kept the Titans to only 14 points in their drawn game. The Titans had a coupleplayers stay on the Gold Coast, young forward Brendan Tago is recovering from a nice corkie and should be back for round 7 The Panthers are a lot beter a footy team than they have been playing this year and put it together today to give the SeaEagle thier 1st defeat of the '09 season Penrith 30 - 14 Manly Bulldogs remain the only undefeted team so far beating the Knights by 6 Bulldogs 26 - 20 winners over Newcastle. Central Coast enjoyed their 2nd win of '09 when the suprised the Illawarra Steelers winning 18 - 6 The Dragons travel to TG Milner oval to play North Sydney tomorrow, should be a good game, get out there if you can. (good food there too) | MATTHEW"S CUP RESULTS & LADDER | SG BALL Melbourne Storm outgun the Western Academy winning 30 - 18 Bulldogs and Knights in amazing 40 all draw Panthers return the their winning ways smashing the SeaEagles 30 - 4. South Sydney too good for self destroying Raiders with a good touch up at Redfern oval belting the Raiders back to the ACT 40 - 10. Jets blast the Titans back ove the boarder in a great effort winning 40 - 22. Steelers score 62 points in their blitz over the Central Coast at home winning 68 - 18 in another high scoring game Traditional clubs the Tigers held on to beat the Wests Magpies by the bearest of margins 28 - 26 The Dragons play North Sydney at TG Milner oval tomorrow Match Reports & heaps of ACTioN FoTo'S tomorrow | SG BALL RESULTS & LADDER | |
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| Friday 20 th March 2009 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
SURFIES VS WESTIES MATCH PREVIEW You can have your battle of the west, local derbies and traditional grudge matches but the one on everyone’s lips is....... drum roll please......Yes folks it’s the Surfies vs Westies aka the Cronulla Sharks versus the Parramatta Eels junior reps challenge. The showdown is on Saturday at Cabramatta Sports Ground (or “Cabra” in the local Parra lingo). HAROLD MATTHEWS CUP It’s 4th vs 5th spot this week in what shapes as a great contest. The Sharks only loss has been to the much-vaunted Newcastle side while the Eels haven’t lost a game but have two drawn results against Illawarra and South Sydney. Interestingly they smashed Cronulla’s conqueror Newcastle last week 26 - 6. The surfie boys are on a high and it’s not because of riding some big waves this week down at Cronulla beach in Indian summer conditions. No sir. These boys are the real deal with four wins from five starts with 114 points for and 68 against. Parramatta’s stats are very similar with 120 points for and 66 against. It’s going to be a battle of Parramatta muscle versus Sharks flair. The key for the Sharks is not to play the Eels in the forwards. Their modus-operandi on Saturday should be to throw the ball around and move the big Eels forwards around to tire them. That should pave the way for speedsters such as centre Rea Pittman and winger Brendon Kerry to cut through the Parramatta defence with their prodigious speed. Front rower Zac Wedesweiler should be prominent in proceedings while their hooker Micheal Lichaa knows the way to the tryline. Eels props Junior Paulo and Josh Neal will give them plenty of go-forward while centre Vai Tautai is always dangerous. The challenge for Cronulla is can they contain the speed and skills of reprentative fullback Jacob Gagen? They need to kick the ball out if possible on the 5th tackle because Gagen is such a devastating kick returner he could cut the Sharks to pieces. Shutting him down will go a long way to securing Cronulla a win. PK’s tip: Cronulla surfies to send the Westies back to their fibros by winning a tight match by four points. The Sharks will have too much speed. SG BALL The Parramatta boys are on a high and it’s not because they have been jumping off the high tower at the new Parramatta Pools complex. It’s more to do with their unbeaten run so far in the competition. Five wins from five outings and 216 points (2nd to the Bulldogs) for and only 52 against (Best defence in comp) is daunting opposition for any team to face. The team estimated to be worth a quarter of a million dollars with eight imports from New Zealand, Queensland and NSW Country has had its shares devalued this week. And it’s not due to any global economic crises. Unfortunately for them, but good for him, Pat O’Hanlon the big Queenslander from Mackay has been elevated to the Eel’s Toyota Cup team. He has been an immense success for the Eels Ball side this season by scoring five trys and setting up many more with deft offloads to try hungry support players. The obvious question is how much will Parramatta miss Big Pat? According to Eels insiders they have a ready made replacement in a lad by the name of Krys Freeman. Who? Er.... well he is the son of you know who, the former cheeky Kiwi halfback we all loved to hate when he pulled the black and white jersey of NZ on, one Gary Freeman. Freeman junior is a fiery redhead with a heart as big as Phar Lap and is a different player to O’Hanlon. Watch for his outstanding work-rate in attack and defence. Cronulla on the other hand are lying in 6th position with three wins from five matches. They started the season well with wins over Balmain and the highly fancied Newcastle. They lost their next two to front runners St George and in a shock result to Western Academy. They rejoined the winner’s circle last week by beating Western Suburbs with centre Haydn Peacock in outstanding form scoring three trys. I’m told the form of the big front row forward from Coffs Harbour Joel Tubbs is good and they will need his fearless charges into the ruck against the Eels on Saturday. Other players that will threaten the Parramatta machine should be strong running fullback Tyler Jarden and crafty half Chad Townsend who will lead the team around the paddock. PK’s tip : Parramatta will win by 12 against a fired up Sharks outfit and send the surfies back south with their surfboards between their legs. Parramatta will miss O’Hanlon hence no big score this week. |
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 After a full day of rugby league action at Cessnock’s Baddeley Park yesterday it all came down to one try. A three-way tie in the Coalfields Cup Rugby League gala day saw the winner, as well as the Arrive Alive Cup and University Shield zone representatives, decided on a count back. Maitland High School, Rutherford Technology High School and Kurri Kurri High School finished the day with one loss each. But Maitland was announced as the winner and the zone representative after a review of the score lines revealed it had a superior points differential to Rutherford – by a mere four points. “There was basically one try in it,” event organiser Dave Thomas said. The result basically came down to the final matches where Maitland defeated Cessnock’s Mount View High School 28-0 while Rutherford beat Kurri Kurri 20-8. Going into the matches Rutherford had a 12-point superior differential but Maitland’s red hot form in its final encounter meant it scored 64 points and conceded 28 for a difference of 36 points. Maitland was four points ahead of Rutherford, who scored 52 points and conceded 20 for a positive difference of 32 points. It means Maitland now keeps the Coalfields Cup trophy and progresses to the next stage of the Arrive Alive Cup and the University Shield. The second part of the day was the selection of the under-15s Coalfields Zone representative rugby league team. Thomas said Rutherford dominated the selections with nine of the 18 players following on from the team’s quarter-final appearance in last year’s statewide Buckley Shield. “Rutherford dominated the selections but the other half of the team saw each of the zone schools represented,” Thomas said. The Coalfields team will trial for the Hunter regional squad at Raymond Terrace in April. Thomas thanked the Australian Rugby League, Country Rugby League and Newcastle Knights for assisting on the day. “The day was played in good spirit and the standard of football was good,” Thomas said. Newcastle Knights National Youth Competition players Ben Tupou and Dane Cordon attended the day. |
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| Thursday 19 th March 2009 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| WHERE TO SEE THE NEWTOWN JETS IN ACTION THIS SATURDAY : HENSON PARK
Saturday, 21st March 2009 NSWRL NSW Cup – Round 2 Newtown Jets v Bulldogs (Bankstown City) Kick-Off: 3.00pm. (Please note that Bankstown City is the official feeder club to the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs). The curtain-raisers at Henson Park on Saturday are: NSWRL SG BALL CUP – ROUND 6 Newtown Jets v Gold Coast Titans Kick-Off: 1.30pm. NSWRL HAROLD MATTHEWS SHIELD – ROUND 6 Sydney Roosters Junior League v Gold Coast Titans Kick-Off: 12 noon |
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| COMETS UNDER-16S WIN OVER MACKAY Story By : Aaron Kelly  YOU couldn't wipe the smile off Central Comets under-16s coach Graeme Middlebrook at Browne Park on Saturday. The Comets under-16s opened their Cyril Connell Cup winning account with an impressive 22 - 14 victory against the Mackay Cutters in their round three match. Coming off a hard-fought 26 - 14 loss to Townsville last weekend after trailing 16 - 0, the Comets young guns continued where they left off against the Cutters on Saturday. Big props Steven Coombes and Sam Kitchen led the way up the middle while hooker Grant Rogers was dangerous again out of dummy-half. Middlebrook, who makes the trek in from Biloela to coach the side during the week and on game day, said his players were starting to really show their potential. “Our last 100 minutes of footy have been really good,” Middlebrook said. “At the end of the day, it's a good reward for the boys who have put in all the hard work. I was really impressed with our ability to get in there and compete.” Co-captain Coombes scored two tries on his way to man-of-the-match honours while fullback Joe Taylor and second-rower Anthony Mathele also crossed in the eight-point win. “Steve was very good again - he certainly leads the way,” Middlebrook said. “He and Sam really laid the platform in defence and attack.” The Central Comets under-18s suffered a setback against the Mackay Cutters on Saturday after their strong first-up win over Townsville, going down 28-22 in the dying minutes. With six minutes on the clock and scores locked, Mackay's Bazie Jacko took an intercept try and raced away to score as the Comets pushed for the match-winner. A frustrated Comets under-18s coach Steve Parle said it was a massive reality check for his players after beating Townsville. “We showed a lack of respect for the football, lacked composure and ball security,” he said. The Comets under-18s and under-16s continue their campaigns in Mackay this weekend against the Northern Pride.. MORE CONNELL CUP NEWS |
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MOUNT Austin High School last night qualified for the Hardy Shield grand final with a hard-fought 18 - 12 victory over The Riverina Anglican College at Equex Centre. Playing in front of a large crowd, Mount Austin played below its best but did just enough to edge past a gallant TRAC outfit. Mount Austin skipper and halfback Alex McKenzie was the architect of the victory and the speedy playmaker scored the match-winning try three minutes before full-time to break a 12-12 deadlock and send the team into the grand final. Mount Austin coach Steve O’Neill was satisfied with the triumph but admitted the team would need to improve to compete against Mater Dei Catholic College in the grand final on Tuesday night. “I was very happy with the win,” O’Neill said. “But our intensity was nowhere near as keen as what it was in the first two games. “We basically got away with it tonight (last night) but we know we won’t be able to next week in the grand final.” Heading into the game as clear favourites, Mount Austin made a dream start to the contest when hooker Anthony Hackett crashed over the line from close range in the 5th minute following a break from winger Josh Loitenton to give the team a 6-0 lead. Mount Austin looked set to extend its advantage in the 12th minute when McKenzie threw a lovely long pass to put centre Lakepa Buadrano into space. However, Buadrano dropped the ball over the line. After trailing 6-0 at half-time, TRAC came out fired-up in the second term and prop Andrew Madden barged over the line to level the scores. Madden was the best player on the field last night and he made several damaging runs and also aimed up in defence with some big tackles.. LeaRN MoRe |
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 The Forbes Magpies under 18s side have played out a 28-all draw with the Bathurst Panthers in Bathurst. The junior Magpies have high hopes for the coming season with a multitude of talented young footballers gracing their ranks. A number of these talented players were unavailable for the match with the Panthers due to first grade commitments however the side still demonstrated its ability in playing out a 28-all draw with the classy young Panthers. Talented young half Zac Redfern found the line twice for the Magpies, while Aaron Goodsell, Jake Stenhouse and Brodie Hodges all helped themselves to a try. The draw qualifies the Magpies juniors for the semi finals of the Win TV Challenge and they travel to Cowra next Saturday for their match against Narromine. |
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MATER Dei Catholic College progressed to the Hardy Shield grand final after a controversial and drama-charged game against Wagga High School at Equex Centre last night. In an explosive finish to the round games of the prestigious rugby league tournament, MDCC and Wagga High played out an entertaining – and contentious – 4 - 4 draw. In the lead-up to the game both teams knew the winner would qualify for the grand final while the loser would be forced into a play-off for third position. What nobody counted on was a draw. Under Hardy Shield rules MDCC made it through to the grand final over Wagga High School due to a superior for-and-against record. MDCC coach Anthony Hood was elated with the performance and said the team was looking forward to the grand final. “Wagga High is gutted and we are happy,” Hood said. “It was probably a disappointing way to end the game and I think everyone wanted to see a result but we are just happy to be in the grand final. “I am very proud of the way some of our guys played, in particular Tim Jones, Jordan Shepherd and Tim Hurst.” In easily the best game of the tournament, MDCC and Wagga High slugged it out in a mistake-riddled but physical affair in front of a huge crowd. Wagga High scored the opening try of the game when centre Fraser Box finished off a slick backline movement in the 7th minute to give the team a 4-0 lead.. LeaRN MoRe |
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The Hills Sports High School sent a strong message to Arrive Alive Cup contenders when they beat Endeavour Sports High School 32-10 at Richie Benaud Oval North Parramatta today. Boasting five Parramatta SG Ball players Hills were too strong around the paddock with Eel's centre Josh Tuitupou bagging a double while his centre partner and fellow Eel Jorge Taufua constantly found holes in the Endeavour defence. Also strong for Hills were Second rower Jacob Loko and fullback Gerard McCallum, a Tigers SG Ball squad member. Meanwhile Westfields have easily defeated Matraville Sports High School in both the University & Buckley Shields Westfields SHS won the Uni Shield in a tough game of schoolboys rugby league 24 - 12 and the Westfields Buckley Shield team is well on its way to a record 5 straight NSWCHS Buckley Shield Title |
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| Wednesday 18 th MArch 2009 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Theiss Services Group 21 Rugby League is holding their Group 21 Schools’ Rugby League carnival on Sunday March 22, 2009 at the Scone Park area. This type of carnival is aimed at giving school children an opportunity to play rugby league for their respective schools, play in a team sport and broaden their sporting choices. It also gives students, who have never played rugby league before, a chance to experience the game, see that it is a safe sport to play and compete in a carnival atmosphere. With all teams playing in the same area there is a positive social interaction between all schools competing and the spectators. In 2008 this Carnival was moved to a Sunday to avoid the summer sports. This was a positive move as the number of players increased and there were around 2,000 spectators on the ground to watch some very good games of rugby league. The competition is open to students from under 7 years through to open High School. It costs nothing for schools to enter teams and through the hard work of the canteen staff it allows the Group to give away a sausage sandwich and a drink to each player competing. One of the few remaining that does this. Over the years there have been many changes to the game of rugby league, making it safer and more enjoyable for players. The “safe play code”, “spectator code of conduct”, as well as conduct codes for coaches and officials. Schools in the Group 21 area have been sent an invitation to nominate teams for this carnival and all players nominated must attend that school. With approximately 740 students playing on the day it makes it a very large carnival to run on one day. The Group 21 Rugby League runs this carnival with the assistance of Scone “Old Boys Club” (retired players), Scone Junior and Senior League committees and Scone Rugby Union. However, the Group does welcome volunteers who would like to lend a hand. It is a big day of rugby league and the more people who can assist will make it that much easier to organise. The Carnival is organised by Rod Bowd and anyone requiring more info or would like to volunteer contact him on 6545 1774 or 0418 476 691. | DOWNLOAD THE DRAW | |
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Story By : Steve LITTLE - North Sydney BEARS Photo : You couldn’t wipe the smile off the North Sydney S G Ball players and coaching staff as they burst into song after having beaten archrivals Manly 26-10 at TG Milner Field on Sunday afternoon. While Manly were affected by a number of injuries, you could not take away the effort from the North Sydney side. The Sea Eagles went into the game as favourites, but it was the Bears that shocked them when Aidan Carney scored in the eighth minute after getting a pass from Matt Place. Second-rower Scott England crashed over in the 27th minute and with Jayson Lombardo’s conversion, the Bears were ahead 10-0 at the break. Many pundits still believed that Manly would come back in the second-half but they were made to eat their words when Jonathan Valentino did it all himself. The halfback stepped inside the defence and then twisted out of the tackle of Sione Ala to score under the sticks. The score line was 20-0 when on the last tackle, Matt Place put in a short cross-field kick that was taken by Warrick Wood, who raced over for the try. With 17 minutes remaining, Manly finally crossed when Luke Keary scored from dummy-half as the Sea Eagles began to raid the Bears try line. But North Sydney showed plenty of character to defend magnificently and made sure of the memorable win when Ray Schuster scored with five minutes left. Coach Mark Cannon used the analogy of a game of chess in his analysis of the win. “Footy these days is about not creating errors, not putting pressure on yourself and completing your sets of six. The boys understand it’s a bit like a game of chess, completing your six and stopping them completing their six if you can”. “They really did play chess today! They completed their sets and waited for their opportunities. They came up with a couple of errors, but in the first half there were only two sets we did not complete. That’s a big turn around from the previous week”! “We‘ve got a lot of work to do still, but it’s just pleasing for them and rewarding for them to get the result after all their hard work.” “The other pleasing result is you get a little bit emotional with that rivalry against Manly. It certainly didn’t hurt the passion of the game”. Asked for his standouts Mark could not single one out. “They all did well and they all did their jobs. The big fellas lead up front. All the forwards backed up, supported and worked hard in defence. The little guys worked hard putting pressure on the Manly players, especially first off the ruck, that really worked for us today”! NORTH SYDNEY 26 (Aidan Carney, Scott England, Jonathan Valentino, Warrick Wood, Ray Schuster tries, Jayson Lombardo 3 goals) defeated MANLY-WARRINGAH 10 (2 tries, 1 goals). Halftime 10-0 North Sydney. Despite another great performance from Bears centre Gordon Broome, the Harold Matthews Manly Sea Eagles, proved too quick for the North Sydney Bears, running out 40-12 winners also at TG Milner Field. MANLY-WARRINGAH 40 (4 tries, 3 goals, 1 field goal). Defeated NORTH SYDNEY 12 (Adam Clarke, Ryan Clarke tries, Rod Quinn 2 goals). Halftime 22-6 Manly-Warringah. Both North Sydney Junior Sides return to T G Milner Field this Sunday 22 March, to face St George. The Harold Matthews will play at 3:00pm and the S G Ball will play at 4:30pm. On Saturday 21 March the Bears NSW Cup side begin their 2009 season against Cronulla-Sutherland at Foreshaw Oval from 1:15pm. |
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| Tuesday 17 th MArch 2009 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
 FILTHY at his opening round demotion to Toyota Cup, Penrith wunderkind Wade Graham is investigating whether he can get an immediate release to Melbourne. Although contracted to the Panthers until the end of 2010, Graham has spoken to Melbourne officials about a move south in the wake of his shock omission from first grade for last weekend's opening round. The Daily Telegraph understands that one Melbourne assistant coach has spoken directly with the 18-year-old about a mid-season move. Storm head coach Craig Bellamy is also believed to be keen as the Storm hunt for a quality five-eighth to replace sacked pivot Arana Taumata and shift superstar Greg Inglis into his favoured left centre spot. Speaking to The Daily Telegraph last night, Graham's manager Mark Stewart confirmed that interest had emerged from a number of rival clubs after news of Graham's disappointment spread last week. "I'm not going to confirm which clubs we've spoken to - but there have been talks over the past week," Stewart revealed. "If Wade is not good enough to be playing first grade in that Penrith side at the moment, with the halves they don't have, then he's probably got no place at the club. If they don't think that he can crack it in that side, then he should be able to go and explore his options elsewhere. "I'm sure there are plenty of sides that would like to have Wade Graham on their books. "The last half Penrith dropped and released was Peter Wallace and look what he's done since . . . "He's now an Origin player." However, Panthers general manager Mick Leary said last night there had been no request from Graham for a release as yet and suggested if a request was made, the youngster shouldn't hold his breath hoping. "If there was, we wouldn't be entertaining one," Leary added. Despite being hailed as one of the Panthers' teenage saviours this year, Graham was overlooked in favour of part-time playmakers Jarrod Sammut and Luke Lewis for last Saturday's opening loss to Cronulla. The news of Graham's approach to Melbourne came as Penrith boosted its halves stocks with the signing of Newcastle No. 7 Luke Walsh yesterday. Knights great Andrew Johns, the man Walsh was tipped to emulate, last night said the 21-year-old could solve Penrith's playmaking woes. "He is a genuine halfback who has played in the position all his life," Johns said. "He's got a great kicking game and he reads the game well. He will point them around the park." |
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| NEWTOWN JETS SG BALL MATCH REPORT In the SG Ball Cup match on Saturday, the Jets had plenty of chances in this hard-fought encounter with the Steelers. Newtown trailed 8-6 at the break and drew level at 8-all early in the second half. A length of the field intercept try to the Steelers midway through the second half proved to be the gamebreaker. The young Jets tried desperately in the last 15 minutes with several scoring chances going begging through dropped ball and poor kicking options. Newtown’s lock Boyd Cordner played himself into the ground in trying to inspire his team-mates. Both Newtown Jets teams are at Henson Park this coming Saturday (March 21st), with the Roosters Harold Matthews squad getting the full afternoon’s program underway when they play the Gold Coast at 12 noon. Newtown takes on the Gold Coast in the SG Ball Cup at 1.30pm, and in the Jets first competition home game for 2009, Newtown meets the Bulldogs feeder club, Bankstown City, in a Round 2 NSW Cup match at 3.00pm. |
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| Monday 16 th March 2009 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Story & Photo's by : There's nothing like a local derby to bring out the passion in a game of footy. The North Sydney Bears hosted this round 5 local derby at the TG Milner Field on Sunday where the lawnmower man must be still on holidays. The first game was the Harold Matthew's Cup clash when the brave Bears took on the so far undefeated Manly SeaEagles. The SeaEagles are still undefeated and join the Bulldogs on top of the Matty's Cup Ladder. In the SG Ball match the score line was reversed with the Bears too good on the day winning a tough and fast game 26 - 18 and are only out of the 8 on percentages.
QUICK CHAT WITH MANLY SEAEAGLES SKIPPER LUKE VESCIO A COMFORTABLE WIN THIS WEEK LUKE, WHAT AREA'S DO YOU THINK THE TEAM CAN IMPROVE? WHAT ABOUT YOUR SELF, HOW DO YOU THINK YOU ARE GOING? THATS FIVE WINS FROM 5 STARTS, IS THE TEAM THINKING ABOUT THE FINALS? CAN YOU SEE THE TEAM IMPROVING EACH WEEK, ARE YOU DOING THINGS BETTER, HAS THERE BEEN DESTINCT IMPROVEMENT? DO YOU KEEP UP WITH THE OTHER SCORES EACH WEEK, DO YOU KNOW WHO THE GOOD TEAMS ARE? SO HOW'S SCHOOL GOING WHAT ARE YOUR FAVOURITE SUBJECTS AT SCHOOL WHAT SCHOOL DO YOU GO TO LUKE? yeh, no worries mate, thanks |
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| Sunday 14 th March 2009 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ROUND 5 WRAP UP Story by : MATTHEW'S CUP The Bulldogs were kept to only 28 points against a fast improving Souths team's 8 points. Sharks out muscle the Wests Magpies to win a close 18 -16 game to remain close to the comp leaders
Dragons record their 1st win of the season with champion Endeavour SHS student Hayden Fepuleai returning smashing the SWSAS 56 - blot. Might even have put a smile on coach Graeme Wynn's face. SG BALL Cronulla put their backline back together in the 2nd half and run away with the game 38 - 20 with Haydn Peacock getting a hat trick. Steelers blow out Jets flame in low scoring game winning 16 - 8 Balmain run in 42 points as the Western Academy do well to get 10. |
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The Sydney Roosters have today announced that halfback Mitchell Pearce will remain with at the club until at least the end of 2013. Pearce, whose current contract expires in 2010, has resigned for a further three years ensuring he remains a Rooster for the foreseeable future. Coach Brad Fittler welcomed the news and the opportunity to continue working with Mitchell as his career develops. “Mitchell is a great young kid and has the world at his feet. I am glad that he has committed to the Roosters and am looking forward to watching him grow.” CEO Steve Noyce was similarly excited with the news. “Mitchell is obviously a talented player and a major asset to any club. We are happy to have his future at the club secured for the long term.” Pearce expressed delight and relief at the deal giving him the opportunity to further develop his career in the familiar surroundings of Bondi. “It is just great to know that I am going to be here for quite a while. That gives me the opportunity to concentrate completely on my football and not worry about contracts for the next few years. It’s great to be able to repay the club’s faith in me and step up into a more senior role within the team. After playing a bit of representative football last year I can’t wait to take that experience with me into 2009.” The Sydney Roosters will take on the South Sydney Rabbitohs tomorrow, Sunday 15 March, at the Sydney Football Stadium. Family tickets are available for $50 pre-purchase and kids will be allowed onto the field after the players have left the surface at the conclusion of the match. Wes Carr will also perform three songs pre-game. |
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Both the Sharks Harold Matthew's & SG Ball Cup teams returned from Campbelltown Stadium with the points in this weeks round 5 District Reps clash. The Harold Matthew's Boys won a tight affair by only 2 points in a game with which the Ref had a big influence. Too big an influence in some opinions at the ground. LeaRN MoRE |
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| Saturday 14 th March 2009 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
MATER Dei Catholic College staked its claim for the prestigious Hardy Shield last night by smashing Kooringal High School 44 - 0 in front of a healthy crowd at Equex Centre. In a completely dominant display, MDCC put its Hardy Shield rivals on notice by running riot in the second-round game against an inexperienced Kooringal. MDCC’s backline was in superb form in attack while its forward pack made easy metres up the centre of the field and also defended well when Kooringal had possession. MDCC centre Llahn Sheppard was one of the best backs for the team and the speedy ball-runner bagged three tries in a brilliant performance. Captain Dallan Stanton was also a handful for the Kooringal defence and he snared two tries while classy fullback Brendan O’Rourke also scored a double. MDCC coach Anthony Hood was estatic with the performance in the wet conditions and said the team was improving with every game. “Our completion rate was great – we completed 14 out of 19 sets which is fantastic in those conditions.” Hood said. “We just held onto the ball and never even really gave them a chance to have the ball.” While elated with the attacking performance, Hood was also pleased with the defensive side of MDCC’s display. “Again, our defence was great,” Hood said. “Even right until the end the boys fought hard to keep them scoreless.” In a dream start, Sheppard scored the opening try of the contest in the 6th minute when he finished off a sweeping backline movement and the centre made it number two not long after (9th) when he found himself in space and dummied his way past the fullback to touch down. With hooker Tim Hurst, halfback Trent Schubach and five-eighth Jaden Stanton controlling the play, MDCC was easily able to turn possession into points. MDCC started the second half with a bang with O’Rourke crossing the stripe twice and Dallan Stanton rubbing salt into Kooringal’s wounds by scoring virtually untouched from a kick-off. |
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 St John’s College rugby league coaches Brett Murphy, Andy Haycock and Greg McIntosh at training this week in preparation for the start of the schools representative season today in the Arrive Alive Cup at Apex Oval. Kangaroos forwards Andrew Ryan and Dean Pay are expected to be two of the first players picked by selectors when Dubbo St John’s College celebrates 40 years in rugby league at a special dinner on Friday March 27. Current Gold Coast forward Daniel Conn is also expected to be popular with the judges. Conn represented Australian Schoolboys Under-15s in 2001 while Pay earned the same accolade in 1984, as did Bernard Wilson in 1987. Ryan and Pay went on to play Test matches for Australia and State of Origin for New South Wales and both won NRL premierships. The 40-year celebrations will include a college assembly in the morning and finish the same evening with a gala dinner at the Amaroo Hotel for parents, ex-students and supporters.. LeaRN MoRe |
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| Friday 13 th MArch 2009 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Jetstar Gold Coast Titans fans are preparing for a footy extravaganza on their doorstep this weekend, with the club’s senior and junior sides both doing battle on the Gold Coast. The Titans of tomorrow – the club’s Harold Matthews (under-16) and SG Ball (under-18s) sides – will kick-off a bumper weekend of footy at Boyd Street Oval on Saturday afternoon when they take on the Penrith Panthers. The Titans’ NRL and NYC sides will then take centre stage at Skilled Park on Sunday for their eagerly anticipated season-opening clash against Newcastle. The footy feast will mark the first time in the club’s history that all four grades will be playing on the Gold Coast on the same weekend – with the under-16s making their debut in the Harold Matthews competition this year. Both Titans’ junior representative teams have made flying starts in their respective competitions to be sitting in fourth position on the ladder after four rounds. The Titans’ Harold Matthews side continued their winning way last weekend with a dominant 40-12 win over Norths – which marked their third victory from their opening four matches. The club’s SG Ball outfit also scored a big win away from home last Saturday, a 52-22 win over Norths moving them into fourth spot on the ladder on six competition points. Jetstar Titans coaching and development manager Gavin Judd said both sides were gearing up for physical encounters against Penrith. “Penrith traditionally have a strong junior base and they always figure prominently in the junior competitions,’’ said Judd. Titans fans are urged to get out and support their junior teams before Sunday’s anticipated season opening clash against Newcastle. Admission at Boyd St Oval is $5. 1pm (QLD time) Harold Matthews Titans v Panthers2.30pm (QLD time) SG Ball Titans v Panthers |
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UNHERALDED Mt Austin High is looming as a shock contender for a place in the Hardy Shield final on March 24. After beating Kooringal High 24-18 in a first round game on Tuesday, Mt Austin High faces Kildare Catholic College in the second round at Equex Centre tonight. A victory over Kildare Catholic College would leave Mt Austin High only a win away from clinching an unlikely spot in the shield final. With Mt Austin High drawn to play sixth-ranked The Riverina Anglican College in round three on Tuesday, the odds are in the favour of the team achieving its goal. Before the series started, Wagga High and Mater Dei Catholic College were regarded as the two best teams in the shield competition and seemed set to play in the final. Mater Dei Catholic College coach Anthony Hood yesterday described Mt Austin as the “quiet achievers” of the shield. “They’ve got a very solid team and will be hard to beat in any of their games,” Hood said. “Obviously they (Mt Austin) will make the final if they win their last two games.” Under Hardy Shield rules, teams are given three points for a win, two for a draw and one for a loss. Mt Austin High will be favoured to beat Kildare Catholic College and TRAC in the next two rounds, while powerhouses Wagga High and Mater Dei will clash in the third round. “Obviously Mater Dei and Wagga High both can’t get nine points,” Hood said. Hood said Mater Dei would have an unchanged team for tonight’s second round clash with Kooringal High at Equex Centre. “We need to fix a few things and cut down on errors,” Hood said. Kildare Catholic College coach Simon Huntly, meantime, said he had named a “young and inexperienced” team for the Hardy Shield. Huntly said the players had shown great enthusiasm in losing to Wagga High (36-0) and would give another bold display against Mt Austin High tonight. |
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JASON HETHERIGTON CUP Jason Hetherigton Cup 2009 Held in Gladstone QLD. The Carnival is an Under 12 event which 18 Teams across the State will compete for the Jason Hetherington Cup. Teams will be accepted by the first 18 nominated. The carnival will be under the Gladstone Junior Rugby League Auspices. What makes it special for Jason Hetherigton is that age group was the first ever Queensland team he made so here's a bit of emotion surrounding the Carnival. Also the only Under 12 Carnival in the state for club footy that I'm aware of. The Carnival will be Held at the Gladstone Brothers Junior Rugby League Fields , commencing on the 10th July hrough to the 12th July 2009. The nomination forms are nearly completed and will be available in the next week. |
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 PENRITH teenager Wade Graham admits he was "shattered'' to be dropped for the Panthers' season opener against Cronulla on Saturday. The 18-year-old was expected to form a halves combination with 22-year-old Jarrod Sammut in 2009 after the pair made steady progress in the three trial games. But the youngest halves pairing in the NRL was split this week with coach Matthew Elliott opting to thrust Luke Lewis into Graham's five-eighth position for the clash with Cronulla at Toyota Stadium. Graham said he was shocked to be dropped but was adamant he would use the disappointment to force his way back into the top squad. "I just have to cop it on the chin and go back and try to play some good footy and earn my way back into the side,'' said Graham. "There is a lot of competition there. (Elliott) just pulled me in earlier in the week and said I wasn't in the 17. I have to go and work on my game before I get back in there. Luke is a great player and deserves his spot.'' Graham said he had been happy with his first full preseason with the Panthers as he juggled HSC duties during the 2008 season. "I was stoked with my preseason. I was pretty shattered when he told me I wasn't playing but what can you do,'' he said. "I just have to try and play some footy now. You can't do anything about it, I just have to work my way in. I know there's always areas you can improve and I will just go back now and do my best and see how I go.'' Graham joined Lewis for a promotional swim with grey nurse sharks at the Manly aquarium during the week to raise money for men's cancer. The diving expedition, part of the Cancer Council's DareDallion campaign, raised over $500. |
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| Thursday 13 th MArch 2009 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
 GROUP XI JUNIORS - PARKES & DISTRICT 15'S & 16'S REP INFOApplication form for Group XI Under 15's Trial Date: Sunday, 15th March, 2009 Application form for Group XI Under 15's Trials. Applicants must be registered 15 year olds. Please ensure you return this paperwork to Kerrie Edwards no later than 12th March, 2009 so teams can be organised. If further information is required please contact Kerrie Edwards (0427 800 315) Application form for Group XI Under 16's Trial Date: Sunday, 15th March, 2009 Application form for Group XI Under 16's Trials. Applicants must be registered 16 year olds. Please ensure you return this paperwork to Kerrie Edwards no later than 12h March, 2009 so teams can be organised. If further information is required please contact Kerrie Edwards (0427 800 315) 15's & 16's Cluster Championships 15's & 16's Cluster Championships are set for 13th and 14th June 2009. 13'S& 14'S REP INFO Date: Sunday, 1st March, 2009 Applicants must be registered 13 year olds. Please ensure you return this paperwork to Kerrie Edwards no later than 28th February, 2009 so teams can be organised. If further information is required please contact Kerrie Edwards (0427 800 315) APPLICATION FORM FOR GROUP XI UNDER 14'S TRIAL Date: Sunday, 1st March, 2009 Application form for Group XI Under 14's Trials. Applicants must be registered 14 year olds. Please ensure you return this paperwork to Kerrie Edwards no later than 28th February, 2009 so teams can be organised. If further information is required please contact Kerrie Edwards (0427 800 315) DoWNLoaD FoRM 13's & 14's Cluster Championships 13's & 14's Cluster Championships are set down for 16th and 17th May 2009. |
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| ‘TRAC NO EASYBEATS’ WAGGA High School coach Andrew Morton has denied dismissing The Riverina Anglican College as a serious threat by making a raft of changes to the team for tonight’s Hardy Shield clash at Equex Centre. Morton yesterday revealed Wagga High would have upwards of nine new players in the team to play TRAC in the second round Hardy Shield game. “It’s about giving all players a go,” Morton said yesterday. “We have a lot of players of similar ability and by rotating the team they all get a chance.” Wagga High is fresh from a thumping 36-0 victory over Kildare Catholic College in the first round on Monday and will be a red-hot favourite to beat TRAC by a significant margin. In contrast to Wagga High’s explosive start to the competition, TRAC crashed 30-0 to Mater Dei Catholic College on Monday. Morton, however, is adamant he is not in any way underestimating the courage or conviction of the TRAC players. “I think it will be a tough game for us,” he said. “They (TRAC) are a team of real goers. “I just hope we get a victory.” Wagga High must beat TRAC tonight, and Mater Dei Catholic College on Tuesday, to stay on line for a chance to defend its Hardy Shield title on March 24. TRAC coach Michael Stubbs yesterday admitted the team would be up against the odds in the Hardy Shield. “I was very happy with our effort on Monday, but realistically it will be tough against Wagga High,” Stubbs said. Stubbs said TRAC had a goal to finish at least fifth on the Hardy Shield standings this year, which would lift the chances of the team in 2010. Under the Hardy Shield format, sixth-ranked TRAC was automatically drawn against powerful Wagga High and Mater Dei College in the preliminary round. Despite the challenges of the Hardy Shield, Stubbs said TRAC had enjoyed a fabulous year of sporting success across the board. “The school just missed the Carroll Cup final and has won cricket, athletics and swimming competitions,” he said. TRAC will be without three key players tonight, notably Djali Bloomfield and Taylor Bentley. Stylish prop Andrew Madden, who missed Tuesday’s game with a foot injury, is unlikely to be cleared to pay tonight. Madden and barmstorming second-rower Gary Battenally are expected to be in the team to play Mt Austin High on Tuesday. |
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| Wednesday 11 th March 2009 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| RECORD ATTENDANCE AT MAITLAND BLITZ Source : Newcastle Knights Media Release The Newcastle Knights will smash the attendance record for a Junior Development Clinic in the Newcastle and Hunter Region tomorrow at the annual Maitland Rugby League Blitz. A record 700 registrations have already been accepted with more expected at the venue tomorrow. Knights NRL & NYC players will be attending with former Knights Captain, Tony Butterfield. Media interview and photo opportunities will be available. Meanwhile, Knights training will go ahead as scheduled at Balance from 8.30am. WHAT: Maitland Rugby League BlitzWHERE: Maitland Park Touch Fields WHEN: 11.30am, Wednesday 11 March, 2009 |
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 MARK O’NEILL SHIELD
Dundas Shamrocks will host in 2009 the Mark O'Neill Shield for U10s at St Pats Oval on Sunday March 29th - just prior to the season kick-off. A perfect opportunity for practice under match conditions St Patricks, Kirby Street, Dundas, $120.00 per team entry fee (Entry fee is non-refundable) Registrations close 14th March 2009. Please note that due to interest all registrations must be received with entry forms and entry fee by Dundas Shamrocks JRLFC prior to acceptance to the competition. ALL INTERESTED CLUBS PLEASE CONTACT 1. All players must be registered and be eligible to play in the Under 10’s age group in 2009. 2. Spreadsheet with each participants name to be completed and submitted with registration form to 3. Managers to produce player cards on the day. 4. Winning team will be presented with the Mark O’Neill Shield 5. Every participating player receives a medallion 6. All teams to play games consisting of 2 x 15 minutes with 3 minute half time (including quarter and semi finals). 7. Final game consisting of 2 x 15 minutes with a 5 minute half time. 8. Kick off of the first game begins at 8:30am sharp. 9. Free drink and sausage sandwich for each registered participating player 10. Rules and draw to be sent out after close of registration If you have any queries, please contact REFRESHMENTS ON SALE AT CANTEEN |
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| Tuesday 10 th March 2009 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| VIKINGS SNATCH THRILLING VICTORY A BRILLIANT sideline conversion from young halfback Jamal Fogerty secured an important 24 - 22 victory for the Gold Coast Vikings against Redcliffe at Dolphin Oval last Saturday. Fogerty’s superb strike under pressure broke a 22 - all deadlock with just minutes remaining in the Cyril Connell Cup match. The successful conversion, which followed a match-equalising try from Vikings star Ben Thompson, had Vikings supporters on their feet. The grandstand finish capped of a wonderful contest between the two young sides. Redcliffe played some sparkling football in the second half to overturn a 12 - 10 half-time deficit. Gold Coast coach Nathan Antonik said the Vikings had to fight exceptionally hard for the win against a committed Dolphins outfit. “Our boys had to dig deep,” Antonik said. “It was a fantastic effort by our guys. A couple of times there they could easily have put up the white flag.” The thrilling victory came just a week after the Vikings had been flogged 44-12 by Souths Logan. Antonik said the Vikings were determined to play with more “desperation” following that heavy defeat. With two wins from three starts, the Vikings sit nicely in fourth spot leading into Saturday’s clash against Wynnum Manly at Burleigh. Antonik said the Vikings were now targeting “back to back” wins for the first time this season. “We need to get two wins in a row to get a bit of consistency going,” he said. Meanwhile, the Gold Coast’s Under 18 Mal Meninga Cup side also recorded its second win of the year last weekend. The Vikings went on a stunning scoring spree against Redcliffe, crossing for 13 tries in their 76-10 victory at Dolphin Oval. Ben Murdock scored a hat-trick, while Henare Wells, Danny White, Isaac Lui and Jacob Nash registered doubles. In the other Mal Meninga Cup games played last Saturday, Souths Logan beat Easts 12 - 4, Ipswich scored a 34 - 12 victory over Wynnum Manly and the Norths Devils outclassed Toowoomba 58 - 6. Korbin Sims scored three of the Devils’ 11 tries in their big victory over the Clydesdales. Norths were also ultra impressive in the Cyril Connell Cup. The young Devils recorded an emphatic 44 - 4 victory over Toowoomba in the Under 16 clash at Bishop Park. Souths Logan won its match against Easts by exactly the same score, while the Ipswich Diggers stayed on top of the Cyril Connell Cup table with a 30 - 12 win over Wynnum Manly at BMD Kougari Oval. |
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CRONULLA coach Ricky Stuart will today name Solomon Haumono's nephew in first grade for this weekend's round 1 match against Penrith. Blake Ferguson, 18, will line-up at centre having played in the Sharks’ under-20s side last year after arriving from Wellington, near Dubbo. “I’m pretty excited – it’s a big achievement and I can’t wait to get out there,’’ Ferguson said. “Solomon has had a big influence on my career. He has been in my ear constantly telling me to stay clean and keep out of trouble. He has been a good role model for me. He’s also taught me a lot about defence.’’ Haumono, the former league star now professional boxer, said Ferguson had an enormous future. “Blake has tons of ability – he has the world at his feet,’’ he said. “He has only been here for a year so he has done so well to now be playing NRL at just 18. “Blake is a very honest kid, a kid who will bring brightness to the team. He has a great heart.’’ LEARN MORE ABOUT - | CRONULLA JUNIORS | ENDEAVOUR SPORTS HIGH SCHOOL | |
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| JETS BELEIVE THEIR OWN PRESS In what was the biggest upset of the 2009 SG Ball season the Central Coast Storm, winless and badly beaten in all of their previous starts, ran out 22 - 8 winners over the hitherto unbeaten Newtown Jets at Henson Park on Saturday. The young Jets had obviously believed all of their own publicity and turned in their worst display of the season, trailing 16 - 4 at halftime and conceding too many penalties and turning over too much possession to ever look like retrieving the result. The Jets compounded their problems by missing several scoring opportunities at critical stages that might have swung the result around. In the early match at Henson Park, the Roosters Junior League Harold Matthews team made it two wins in a row in beating the Central Coast Storm by 28 - 20. The Newtown SG Ball Cup team travels to Wollongong on Saturday (March 14th) to play the Illawarra Steelers at WIN Stadium, with this fifth round match due to start at 1.30pm. In the NSW Cup, Newtown begins its 2009 campaign travelling further down the South Coast to take on St George-Illawarra’s partnership club the Shellharbour Dragons at the Ron Costello Oval, Shellharbour on Sunday (15th March) at 3.00pm. |
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 LAST year, Chris Sandow didn't expect to play an NRL game for South Sydney. This year, he intends to play every match. Just one year after being handed a lifeline by the club following his axing by Gold Coast, the NRL's 2008 rookie of the year holds the key to Souths' premiership campaign. "I just want to play in the NRL so I'm going to take each game as it comes but my goal is to play every game in first grade," he said. "My mum always told me that if a chance comes up to just grab it as tight as you can … so I'm just doing that at the moment, and I'm enjoying my footy. "I wasn't expecting to play first grade last year. I was just coming down to Sydney to give it a try and another shot. But after getting a chance in first grade, I never looked back." Neither did Souths. The club had won just a single match before Sandow made his NRL debut in round 13 against the Warriors but went on to win seven of their last 12 with the 20-year-old calling the shots. After years of chopping and changing halfbacks at Souths, Sandow has now been anointed by coach Jason Taylor as the club's long-term No.7. Last week, he extended his tenure at Redfern for at least a further three seasons. "Him being an ex-halfback as well as a coach helps me a lot," Sandow said. "We do heaps of kicking, and he tells me when to take control, so that's good. He's the coach but he's also a friend. He's got heaps of goals in the NRL like me so hopefully we can get those together." New fullback Rhys Wesser said the chance to play with Sandow was one of the main attractions after his move from Penrith. "I'm looking forward to it," Wesser said. "Chrissy Sandow shows a lot of ability, and if I can get myself around him and John Sutton, it will be good. For me it's real exciting watching those guys play this year." |
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| Monday 9 th March 2009 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Good win for the Tigers Harold Matthew's Cup team today. A real tough entertaining game against St George. These players play against each other every Sunday during the seasons Balmain / St George Combined Competition and this game was almost a replay of our last years U/15 Grand Final between the best clubs from each district. Another 15 min passed without score then St George put on two tries to get back to 20 - 18. Balmain responded within a min to lead 24 - 18. Another 10 mins of torrid play finally St George looking dangerous attacking Balmain's line in the last min. Unfortunately they popped a pass into our wingers hands who lead the 90 metre sprint to the try line. Final Score 30 to 18. Curtis Sironen made a comeback today and played a great game. Balmain's 30 came from 2 tries to Max Dimarco, 2 tries to Lolo Funaki, 1 try to Luke Brooks and 5 goals to Curtis Sironen. |
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| Sunday 8 th March 2009 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
The Parramatta SG Ball team continues to roll opposition teams and yesterday at Erskinville Oval it wasn’t any different as the Eels demolished a shell-shocked South Sydney Rabbitohs 50 - 6. The big question people are asking is; who can beat this machine? The team, which some pundits have valued at a quarter of a million dollars with eight imports from New Zealand, Queensland and NSW country, have not been threatened in the four rounds of competition so far. They haven’t beaten mug sides either. Illawarra, Penrith, Canberra and Souths are quality opposition in anyone’s language. And those games were all won away. They now have five home games in a row and Parramatta fans are feeling confident. Looking at the other teams it may be a Gold Coast or Bulldogs or even the Jets that could lower the Eels flag. Anyway, back to yesterday. You have to wonder what the score could have been because Parramatta lost big Queensland second rower Pat O’Hanlon to injury in the first half. Additionally half back Josh Murray did not play at all and the Wagga product will be out of action for a couple of weeks with a torn gluteus maximus muscle. No problem, step forward another Wagga product in the shape of Edan Price. Price played pretty well particularly in the first half with a great linking game but he let himself down with some wild passes in the second half. With an emphasis on Wagga half back imports is Parramatta looking for another Peter Sterling? The Eels win was based on forward domination and go-forward by their big dominant forwards. In this respect skipper Kyle Fraser deserves special mention. He is a product of the Parramatta junior system. He didn’t make Parramatta’s Harold Matthews team in 2007 and they sent him to the Western Academy. Last year he missed the SG Ball initial squad and they sent him to the under 17 development team but later elevated him to the SG Ball team after injuries had diminished their stock. Now he finds himself captain of the rampaging machine that is heading the SG Ball competition. He is a great example to kids who don’t get picked the first time. Fraser along with props Peni Terepo, Rodney Moefaauo and PJ Asiata continued to punch holes in the Rabbitohs defence. It was left to the speed and agility of backs Josh Tuitupou and Jaydin Tavita, et al, to score a plethora of trys and record another big win. Souths will be disappointed with their effort which was punctuated with many simple errors. |
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Souths five eight Kyole Dungay inspired South Sydney to a thrilling draw against the much fancied Parramatta team in the Harold Matthews Cup at Erskinville Oval yesterday. The Rabbitohs were down 18 - 6 early in the second half after Parramatta scored from a typical Jacob Gagen sprint to the line to score. At that stage the Eels were on fire with steam streaming from their slippery nostrils. It looked like Parramatta was going to go on to a big score. So what happened? Three things conspired to beat Parramatta. Firstly, an Eels player was sent to the sin bin for an infringement. Secondly, Jacob Gagen dropped the football. Parramatta supporters at the game said they hadn’t seen Gagen drop the ball since he was 10 years of age. People may have to wait for another 5 years to see it again! Thirdly and most importantly, Parramatta did not count on the silky football skills of crafty South’s five eight Kyole Dungay to inspire his team to an 18 all draw. Twice in the second half Dungay magic was woven to produce spectacular trys. Centre Tyrone Ranuku-Phillips scored in the corner after a magic Dungay grubber kick. With the conversion from the sideline Souths are now only behind 18-12 with a sniff of hope. A little while later Gagen drops the ball and it’s a Souths feed into the scrum. The Rabbitohs are on fire and attacking the Parramatta line. Step forward Mr Magic. Yes, it’s that man Dungay again and with a pinpoint cut-out pass straight onto the chest of the flying winger Conor Roxburgh who scores in the corner. Souths fans are almost delirious at this stage with the score now 18-16 with the conversion attempt to come and only two and a half minutes to the full-time hooter. The pressure now mounts on fullback James Roberts to make the conversion. Roberts was under the pump. His portrait was featured on the front cover of the Rugby League News program resulting in many local admirers of the fairer sex giving him plenty of attention yesterday. Could he live up to the hype? He places the ball on the kicking tee, takes five steps back, moves in and whooshka! Straight between the posts! James Roberts – you are a hero! An 18 all draw between two of leagues traditional rivals on a beautiful Sydney Autumn day. It doesn’t get better than that. SOUTH SYDNEY 18 (T Ranuku-Phillips C Roxburgh A Woulf tries J Roberts 3 goals) drew PARRAMATTA 18 (T Errington 2 J Gagan V Toutai tries T Graham goal). |
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| Saturday 7 th MArch 2009 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Story & Photo's By : IT seems the Under 16's se7ens competition in the Domain on Wednesday for the opening of the NRL season reminded teams how to score tries. This followed through to the Sg Ball with teams fighting for half time leads only to be steam rolled at the final bell. In the Harold Matthew's Cup only the Bulldogs & SeaEagles remain undefeated. The SG Ball also has only 2 sides sitting on top of the ladder, the very polished Parramatta Eels team coached by Michael Lewis and the St. George Dragons who are improving every game under new coach Nal Wijesekera. The Gold Coast Titans have enjoyed this trip into enemy territory with good excellent displays of fast and furious rugby league, they like speed in the play the ball so the blond back can start the path to the line. Both Titans teams worked hard for the victories and piled on the points packing 92 points in their kit for the flight home. The Bears SG Ball were still good enough to work for 22 points which against the Titans team is a fair effort. Souths V Eels North's v Titans SWAS v Sharks Tigers v Dragons SWSAS V Manly Matthew's Cup - Raiders hold lead at half time, then Dogs put on the gas winning 40 - 24 SG Ball Cup - Raiders blow 18 - 0 half time lead to go down 24 - 48 |
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| CAIRNS CUP GAMES POSTPONED Story BY : QRL.COM.AU QRL Northern Conference matches between the Northern Pride and the Mackay Cutters have been postponed until April 4. The formation of a cyclone off the North Queensland coast led to officials postponing the two matches, which were scheduled to be played in Cairns on Saturday afternoon. |
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| Friday 6 th March 2009 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
 SEASON OFF GR8 TO START The season at Keebra began last week with the local schools competition up and running. The Under thirteen's had a lopsided 84-0 win over local private school Marymount while the under 14 team went down to Marymount 22-0. The under 15 side trialled against PBC and were very happy with the progress as they managed to complete most of their set plays and comfortably account for their rivals. This week saw the 15bs venture to Robina where they ran out 54-4 winners over a valiant Robina side who just diddnt have enough football to compete. The Open A trial against PBC was another cloak and dagger affair with both sides benching the majority of their rep players and giving the fringe players a chance to shine. Keebras next trials are against Wavell next week so watch this space for further details.. LeaRN MoRe |
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| Thursday 5 th March 2009 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| YOUNG MAGPIES HUNGRY FOR MORE Story By : QRL MEDIA SOUTHS Logan’s Under 18 side is targeting a third-straight victory in the hotly contested Mal Meninga Cup. The classy Magpies enter Saturday’s round three clash against the Easts Tigers at Langlands Park in great form after clinching a thrilling 18-14 victory over the Gold Coast Vikings. The Magpies will soar to top spot on the table if they tame a Tigers outfit which is coming off a morale boosting 26 - 24 victory over the Ipswich Diggers. Souths Logan coach Jim Look has been pleased with his team’s early form. The team’s ability to cope with the demands of an intense and physical contest impressed Look last Friday. “We defended quite well for long periods of time,” he said. “We probably had to because we dropped a fair bit of footy towards the back end of the game.” The Vikings threw everything at the Magpies in an entertaining second half. But in the final wash up, it was two pieces of individual brilliance which consigned the Vikings to their first loss of the season. Halfback Ben Thorburn and flying winger Kenny Hill both scored remarkable tries out of nothing. Look praised Souths Logan’s development staff for unearthing so many impressive youngsters. “Brian Edwards and Mark Tookey have done a lot of work and they’ve certainly brought together a real good bunch of kids,” Look said. Despite their strong start to the season, the Magpies will not get things their own way when they meet the Tigers at Langlands Park. Easts produced a brilliant second half to beat the Diggers last week. The final scoreline flattered the Diggers, who scored a converted try against the run of play in the final few seconds. The highlight of the match was a superb 90m intercept try from Ipswich winger Lachlan Tuite in the first half. In last week’s other Mal Meninga Cup games, the Norths Devils announced their arrival with a 54-4 thrashing of Wynnum Manly and the Sunshine Coast Falcons outclassed Redcliffe 40-20. Meanwhile, the Ipswich Diggers lead the race for the Cyril Connell Cup after recording their second straight win last Friday. Jordan Tighe scored two tries for the Diggers, who recorded a comfortable 30-16 victory over Easts. In the other matches, the Norths Devils beat Wynnum Manly 24-4, Souths Logan thrashed the Gold Coast Vikings 44-12 and Redcliffe edged out the Sunshine Coast 22-18. Anthony Milford had an outstanding individual game for the Magpies in their win over the Vikings. Milford scored two tries and booted seven goals for a personal haul of 22 points. |
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| Wednesday 4 th february 2009 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
 CHIFLEY COLLEGE 10 - 18 ENDEAVOUR SHS The school footy scene is finally underway today at the St. Mary's Leagues Stadium (formerly Western weekender Stadium) with round one of the NSW CHS St. Mary's Cup. The game started with Chifley kicking off and Endeavour SHS doing most of the attacking in the 1st half. Some good play the balls lead to Tom Wishardt at the end of 3 or 4 passes to run down the wing to score Endeavour's 1st try in the corner. John Nicolas backed up his team mate by converting with a beautiful kick from near the side line. The next few minutes the game was sloppy while both teams were feeling each other out and both teams were guilty of dropping too much of the ball. Endeavour managed to string together a few passes which game Ethan Eulo the opportunity to cross the try line, Nicolas was again successful with the kick and all of a sudden Endeavour lead 0 - 10. Chifley came back at the Shire boys almost immediately when they managed a complete set to send young Aisea Cocker into the corner and dived over for the much needed 4 points, the conversion was a difficult one that missed. The half time score saw the visitors ahead 4 - 10. The 2 nd half was a fiery affair with Chifley scoring in the corner when Chifley halfback Dean McWhirter chipped over the oncoming defence only to re gather and run the 30 meters to the line to score, Dean converted his own try from nearly in front to bring the scores closer to 10 - 12 Endeavour scored again to make the margin too much for the Chifley boys to make up and the better team won on the day. Bad discipline from both teams will need to improve as the season continues.. ACTION FOTO'S LATER OR TOMORROW (Thurs arvo) |
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Story BY : Josh Massoud BIG, dark and menacing ... Jamal Idris stalks a narrow back alley in Sydney's southwest with a scowl on his face. "Man, I'm so frustrated right now,'' he mumbles. "I'm just sick of all this training and no football. I just want to get out the there and let rip.'' These are the words Bulldogs coach Kevin Moore wants to hear. Words that drip with with hunger and aggression. After a full off-season with the NRL squad, Idris has returned with a sharpened tip to his already destructive frame. The 18-year-old was a frightening enough prospect when he debuted from nowhere late last year. Tipped the scales at 112kg and looked down on rivals from 192cm. The whirl of dreadlocks and sinew evoked comparisons with dual international Lote Tuqiri and three NRL appearances were enough to convince Andrew Johns to rank Idris as one of the players to watch this season. But that was before Idris even picked up a dumb-bell. Before he started replacing his "baby fat'' with muscle. Before he could focus on rugby league without the distraction of being a world-ranked junior athletics champion. And most critically, before the Bulldogs could toughen him up between the ears. Still at high school, Idris admits he was a playful pup last year. Yesterday, he warned rival sides to expect a lot more mongrel thanks to rev-ups from his teammates and coach Kevin Moore. "Michael Ennis has been into me,'' he reveals. "Mick and the coaching staff have taught me to be aggressive in everything I do - especially opposed sessions. "I used to only go about 60 per cent because you're playing against teammates, but Mick and the other boys have been at me to go as hard as possible. I'm not a very angry person by nature and the club has trying to get more aggression into me.'' In trials against St George Illawarra and Canberra, he has noticed a difference. His opposites would have, too. "Last year I was sort of getting knocked over and pushed back in first grade, whereas now I'm getting underneath blokes and driving them back. "I've gone from bench pressing 100kg to 130kg and I know I can do much more. Still, it's not a bad start considering I never did weights when I was involved in athletics.'' The son of a Nigerian sprint coach, Idris is still young enough to juggle schoolboy football in the Arrive Alive Cup and the NRL. Given his hunger for football, Idris is keen to turn-out for both the Bulldogs and his school mates at De la Salle Bankstown this season. "My manager (Sam Ayoub) is looking after everything else, so I can just concentrate on footy. I'd like to play both but I'm not sure if the Bulldogs will let me,'' he adds with a cheeky smile. There's no shortage of chutzpah here - despite the fact he relies on 17-year-old girlfriend Casey to drive him to training. "I still don't have my driver's license,'' Idris explains. "I've failed twice for not checking my blind spot. And I don't like failing.'' On the back of his success so far, Idris has gone from virtual unknown to a recognisable face on the street. Just wait until they mistake him for Tuqiri ... |
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The Jetstar Gold Coast Titans have helped spread the rugby league word in Coffs Harbour today. Taking time out from a four-day rugby league camp at Coffs Harbour’s Pacific Bay resort, the Jetstar Titans paid visits to three regional schools in the area. Queensland State of Origin representatives Ashley Harrison and Brad Meyers proved a smash hit with the 60 students which make up Coramba Public School during a visit with fellow Titans Esi Tonga and David Mead. At Upper Orara Public School, Titans flyer Chris Walker was joined by Aaron Cannings, Will Matthews and Brad Davis while William Zillman, Shannon Walker, Josh Graham and Brenton Bowen visited Lowanna Public School. The Titans will head home to the Gold Coast on Thursday ahead of the club’s season launch at the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary on Thursday evening. Preparations will then hit fever pitch ahead of the club’s eagerly anticipated season opener against Newcastle at Skilled Park on Sunday, March 15. |
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| Tuesday 3 rd March 2009 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| MATTHEW'S CUP SE7ENS TOURNAMENT On Wednesday 4 th March is the official NRL 2009 season launch at the Domain in Sydney. As a lead up to the NRL season launch there will be a Harold Matthew's Cup (U16's) sevens tournament at the Domain. It is unlikely that clubs will be sending their full Harold Matthew's Cup team to this 7's competition and teams will most likely be made up of players that have not had a run yet this year, players who were in the train on squads and players from clubs development and pathways programs. The Harold Matthew's 7's is a round robin knockout comp and the 1st game kicks off at 4:00 PM The Harold Matthew's Se7ens comp will play the grand final at 6:45 pm with the NRL season launch to kick off after the final. If you want to see some fantastic junior rugby league, come on down to the Domain in Sydney to watch all the 7's action. |
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The Pride of Westfields Sports High School, twins Adam and Ryan Clarke, have spearheaded the Bears 32 - 18 win over junior powerhouse Illawarra in round 3 of the NSW Harold Matthews Cup on Saturday. After crucial losses last weekend to Canterbury-Bankstown, both junior sides faced the long trip to the south of the Sydney Basin and came up trumps with a win and a hard fought draw at WIN Stadium Wollongong. Pocket dynamo Adam Clarke, starred in the number one jersey for the Harold Matts, scoring 4 of the Bears 6 tries. His brother Ryan also scored with centre Daniel Townsend completing the list of try scorers. Winger Rod Quinn was on song with the boot, successful with 4 out of 6 conversion kicks. NORTH SYDNEY 32 (Adam Clarke 4, Daniel Townsend, Ryan Clarke tries, Rod Quinn 4 goals) defeated ILLAWARRA 18 (3 tries, 3 goals). SG BALL A hollow feeling may have been left in the Bears S G Ball camp after their round three draw against Illawarra, however the boys were keen to take the one point after fighting back from a 16-10 deficit at the half time break. Returning to the form of their 34 - 20 win over the Rabbitohs in round one, the Bears were strong up front effectively setting the right platform to get just the required points. However matching field goals from both teams proved the leveler. ILLAWARRA 23 (4 tries, 3 goals, 1 field goal). Drew with NORTH SYDNEY 23 (Barry McGrady, William Angaaelangi, Jay Maseuli, Ray Schuster tries, Jayson Lombardo 3 goals, Matt Place 1 field goal) Halftime: 16 - 10 Illawarra. In the Bears NSW Cup trial Norths faced a Bankstown City Bulls that featured the first grade experience of Michael Sullivan, Nick Kouparitsas and Danny Williams. Centre Curtis Johnston scored 2 tries in the 22-14 win over the Bulls. Bladen Baird and Josh Mansour also scored. Justin Hunt and Marc Russell shared the goal duties. Coach Wayne Lambkin and assistant Michael Pobjie now face final cuts to the Squad in preparation for a trial against the Wyong Roos on Friday, 6th March 2009 at 7:30pm at Morry Breen Oval. |
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Eacham Junior Rugby League executives would like all coaches that are coaching junior rugby league on the tablelands to attend a coaching update on Saturday 7th March 2009, starting at 9.00am in the function room at the Atherton Hotel, Main Street, Atherton. Lunch and morning tea will be provided at no cost to attendees. This update is very important for everyone to coach their players the best way possible. At 10.30am we will be joined by Robbie O'Davis retired Newcastle Knight Legend with 2 premierships under the belt combined with State of Origin and Test success and Darren Albert also a former Knight. Robbie O's development camp will also be on in Atherton this weekend where local Eacham players will be in camp and the update will work in with the camp. The following Saturday 14th March will see the start of the Eacham competition. It is very important that we get the best possible start to the season and carry this over into our representative season. CONTACT DETAILS : |
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| Monday 2 nd March 2009 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
THE JETS SG BALL TEAM IS THE HOTTEST ACT IN TOWN. The Panthers were regarded as premiership contenders and the combination of Penrith’s home ground advantage and the searing late summer heat were considered to be factors that would bring the young Jets undone. The Panthers led 10-0 early in the game but Newtown drew level by halftime and looked to have the result well in hand, having amassed a commanding 28-10 lead midway through the second half. Penrith staged a spirited fightback that saw the Jets clinging to a two-point lead late in the game. Newtown’s coach Joel Greig was delighted with his team’s form against the physically-imposing Panthers and named lock forward Boyd Cordner as the Jets best player on the day. Cordner received the special honour of a call-up to play with the Sydney Roosters NRL squad in their trial match against Parramatta at Campbelltown Stadium on Saturday evening. Upsets were the order of the afternoon with the Roosters Harold Matthews Shield team toppling the top-ranked Panthers 30-24 in the early match at St Marys. The undefeated Newtown SG Ball Cup team returns to Henson Park next Saturday (7th March) to take on the Central Coast Storm at 1.30pm, with the Roosters-Storm Harold Matthews Shield curtain-raiser kicking off at 12 noon. In the NSW Cup trial match at Henson Park on Saturday afternoon, the Jets were burdened with a familiar disadvantage from last year’s decider – a shortage of specialist halves – when they confronted their 2008 grand final opponents Wentworthville. Late withdrawals through injuries saw the Jets field a restructured lineup that still turned in a strong first half performance in going into the break with an 18-6 lead. Newtown’s second half combination had less success as Wentworthville exploited some defensive fragility in the Jets’ outside backs to run out winners by 34-18. Newtown’s best forwards were Stanley Waqa, Scott Jones and the veteran Tere Glassie while Kyle Lodge, Antony Jerram and Sonny Tuigamala showed impressive form in the backline. The Newtown Jets NSW Cup squad will play their last trial game when they travel away next Saturday (March 7th) for a challenge match against the strong Newcastle club team Macquarie United. The match is at the Lyle Peacock Field, Toronto and will kick off at 4.30pm. The Jets and the Scorpions will contest the inaugural Brian “Chicka” Moore Bowl in honour of the famous Newtown international who played and coached at both clubs, with the former champion centre expected to be on hand at the ground to present the trophy to the winners. |
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| Sunday 1 st March 2009 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
SG Ball R3 Report: Bulldogs 82 v Central Coast 6 The Bulldogs went on a record rampage earlier today (Sat 28 Feb 2009) demolishing the Central Coast 82-6 as Nathan Massey and Ali Hijazi went on point scoring blitzes. The passes stuck for the Bulldogs as they played end to end razzle dazzle football enthralling the healthy crowd that turned up to the Crest Stadium. Ali Hijazi in the previous round scored 26 points and in this match he tallied up an impressive 30 points from two tries (first two of the match) and 11 goals from 15 attempts as the Bulldogs from the outset were in an ominous mood. It was also a field day for Nathan Massey as he clocked up an impressive five through excellent support play scoring the 6th, 8th, 9th, 10th and 14th tries that the Bulldogs scored. Following Ali Hijazi’s opening two tries the Bulldogs added further tries to Judah Lavulo and Lachlan Burr to lead 24 - 0. Central Coast hooker Mitch O’Neill scored and converted for what proved to be their only try for the afternoon. Ben Aualiitia and Nathan Massey added tries before the break as the Bulldogs went into half-time leading 34 - 6 with Ali Hijazi landing five goals. The second half was all one-way traffic as the Bulldogs scored nine unanswered tries with Ratu Tagive scoring the first and than Nathan Massey adding the next three tries as the Bulldogs went out to a 56 - 6 lead. Liam Ayoub crossed for the Bulldogs to lead 60-6 and than front-rower Teni Waipouri backed up to run 30m to score as the Bulldogs extended their lead to 66 - 6. A second try for Ben Auaaliitia pushed the Bulldogs past the 70 points barrier and than Nathan Massey scored his 5th try for the Bulldogs with the final scored by Alai Taufaao as the Bulldogs rounded up a remarkable 82 points in 70 minutes of action. The Bulldogs travel to the Nations Capital in Round 4 action to take on the Canberra Raiders on Saturday 7th March with the clash at this stage scheduled to be played at football fields located next to West Belconnen Leagues Club. Stay tuned to www.juniorbulldogs.com.au or www.bulldogs.com.au for further information about the Bulldogs next clash in the NSWRL Junior Representative competitions. |
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| Saturday 28 th February 2009 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Dragons Ball burn Sharks Matthew's Cup Sharks 30 - 6 Dragons SG Ball Sharks 12 - 36 Dragons SeaEagles soar over Tigers Magpies & Rabbitoh's win 1 each Titans do what ever it is that Titans do Bulldogs chew on academy boys Roosters & Jets attack Panthers Bears charge for 1st WIN Eels use ParraPower against Raiders Western Sydney Academy give it to Knights FULL ROUND 3 SCORES & LADDERS | HAROLD MATTHEW'S CUP | SG BALL CUP | LeaRN MoRe | |
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| REFEREE'S STRIVING FOR EXCELLENCE Rugby League’s flourishing stocks of junior referees received another boost last night after one of its best young officials took out the NSW Sports Federation award for Young Official of the Year. The annual awards dinner celebrated the outstanding achievements of athletes, administrators, organisations, coaches, officials and volunteers within NSW, with last night’s winners in other categories including Australian cricketer Simon Katich and Olympian Matthew Mitcham. Rugby League topped the lot in the Young Official of the Year category with 21-year-old NSWRL referee Kasey Campbell taking out the award for her outstanding achievements in 2008. In between her full time job as an ARL Development Officer, Campbell refereed in the 2008 Women’s World Cup including the third place play off between England and Pacific Islands, and was touch Judge in the Final between Australia and New Zealand. In a huge year, Campbell also controlled Game 1 of the NSW v QLD Women’s State of Origin series and refereed and touch judged in numerous state and district level competitions, including the Harold Matthews Cup and SG Ball Cup competitions of the NSWRL. Campbell, who has refereed since 2004, said she hoped to do it for many years to come. “I love the physical challenge of refereeing and the mental aspect of it too,” Campbell said today. “The other thing about refereeing is if you work hard you are given a lot of opportunities and that’s a great thing, it keeps you motivated to keep improving. “It was a big shock to get an award but I’m very grateful. “Refereeing isn’t something you do for recognition but it was nice of the Sports Federation to consider officials for the awards night.” NSWRL Coaching and Development Manager Martin Meredith said Campbell had a bright future as a referee. “It’s a wonderful achievement for one of the up and coming young female referees to be awarded a prestigious award in a male dominated sport,” Meredith said. “She’s come a long way in a short period of time and is showing plenty of potential. “Our numbers in the junior refereeing ranks have steadily increased over the past 12 months and hopefully Kasey’s win will further encourage more women to get involved.” |
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ROUND 6 RESULTS
2009 ARRIVE aLIVE CUP
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Bulldogs win Harold 2007 Matthews Cup Grand Final | NATIONAL SCOREBOARD |
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