Round 3 – Third Grade

Brothers – 17
Balmain – 21

What a difference a week makes. Last week we were scratching to put a team on the paddock this week we almost had a full side with not to many having to back up. Thanks to Niall and Justin the only second graders that gave us a hand and that was for part of the first half. A pleasing aspect of last Saturday was that the 2s had a full side to warm up with and this would have been the first time in many years that the club has been in this position – a positive sign for the future. Main reason for this is players are bringing along new recruits but its not time to be complacent as this still needs to be done. We are all in the business of recruitment and retention.

On to the game in the first half we were competitive, however defence let us down and we leaked a few soft trys however some of our new players stood out and I am hoping backrowers Paul Dunstan and Tyson Foley will continue with us.

Half time saw Balmain with a handy lead but the Brothers boys were not finished and came back strongly in the second half. TJ and Rob Syndnan were particularly impressive with TJ scoring two trys. Our captain Stu Magnion had a strong game however was required to spend 10 minutes in the bin after sorting out an overly aggressive rival! Game went down to the wire and I had the strong impression that another five minutes would have given us a win.

Game also was highlighted by the return to the club of Matt McGrath. Matt suffered a serious injury last year and it was thought he would have to give the game away. Nice to see you back Matt. Next week is a tough one against Blacktown so we encourage all players to make it to training. If you can only do one night Thursday is compulsory. See you there.

Points –

3 Paul Dunston
2 Matt McGrath
1 Stu Mangnion

Greg Carew
Ian Meers
Coaches