Semi Final Roundup

This week saw us host the semis against Balmain at Roseville Chase Oval. Due to COVID restrictions and the need to manage crowd numbers the event was not publicised. Apologies to anyone who wanted to attend but we're sure, given the current situation, you understand.

It was a great day of, and for, rugby. Beaming sunshine and hard fought, physical, games.

The 2nds game, much like last time we played Balmain, could have gone either way in the last 10 minutes. First grade continued to show their dominance with Balmain never giving up and just keeping coming.

We're not sure what the story will be re spectators at the Grand Finals but will update you once we know.

ZUMBA ZUMBA ZEY!

Meldrum Cup

“Every fighter is my toughest challenge to date. After I get done with one fight, the next challenge is the toughest” ~Andre Ward~

An opposition we know very well. We knew going into the weekend that Balmain relies heavily on the backrow to inspire their pack and to rally the backs. The challenge was to nullify their ability to contest the ruck, make them chase their tackles, and take space quickly when we’re in D.

We dominated much of the game, from kick off Jordan Smith was a man possessed, set a high benchmark and he went to work. Made tackle after tackle, one of his best games. Matthew Norman was another that impressed, did his job in D and his carries today were impressive. A great chop play with Jayden Wall delivering a pass to put Matt Norman into space, which he converted to a 50 metre gain, next play through Joseva Bilo led to Jordan Smith scoring under the post.

Really enjoyed the work of our backrow today, they were challenged throughout the week and they delivered. In the backs , Stuart Raines continues to pull the strings, his decision making continues to grow, 3 penalties (kick for goal) unheard off for Brothers Rugby. This allowed us to keep scoreboard pressure on the opposition, it took its toll at the end with two frustrated opposition spending 10 in the bin. A good day for our men and our proud club is now off to the last dance against Manly Savers.

The points this week go to;

3- Jordan Smith - A great defensive effort set the tone for the team.
2- Matthew Norman - What a good 8 would do, carry and convert well. Probably carried close to 100 meters today.
2- Joseva Bilo - Played a half, just makes rugby look so easy.
1- Jayden Wall - Has a good understanding of our system, takes charge of his POD.

Thanks,
Lenny

Halligan Cup

Curtains for the season. Losing isn’t always the end, sometimes it becomes the beginning.

For the YELLOW team the season comes to an end. We had a tough start to the season with two heavy losses , it was unlikely we would ever make the semi finals..…. We regrouped, through the Fijian crew and a few old heads returning to play and thanks to Karl for organising the Halligan Cup games. We put 4 wins on the board and booked a ticket to the semi final.

On the day our men were always in the game but what let us down was our D. The opposition wasn’t that dominant as they relied heavily on 3 players to break our defensive line and that was the difference as they were hard to contain. We did have our chances and even leading into 2nd half we were in front 13-12. Our system stacked up well when executed but it wasn’t enough on the day. A big thank you to Karl Houghton for lacing up his boots and filling in at prop.

On behalf of Mark Durisic and Adam, I would like to thank each player for their contribution to this season. The YELLOW team success is fundamental to having a strong club and it was great to see this team go from strength to strength over the season.

The points this week go to;

3- Matt Barton - Some very good carries. Continue to improve every game
2- Tom Channel - Another solid outing.
1- Jayden Nauluvula - Limited opportunity with the ball but was a threat every time he had it.

cheers,
Lenny