With big expectations the Bellingen Valley Dorrigo Magpies headed to Bowraville on Saturday to take on the Bowraville Tigers. A win virtually cementing a playoff spot in the finals.
The Sunday before the Magpies made the long road trip to Kendall to play the competition leaders and undefeated Kendall Blues. To the surprise of many the Magpies showed up determined to put on a dogged performance. Strong defence from both sides was the order of the day. Seth Martin kicked an early penalty goal to give the Magpies some confidence before a typical length of the field try from Ryan Martin late in the half had the Magpies up 8 – 4 at halftime. It took 18 minutes for Kendall to hit the lead 10 – 8 in the second stanza and with two players sent off the Magpies were struggling to hang on. Fatigue set in allowing Kendall to run out winners 22 – 8.
Against Bowraville the solid defence of the week before was missing and with a couple of lucky bounces of the ball the Tigers were up 10 nil early in the game. The Magpies hit back with a determined try to Dylan Young, converted by Seth Martin 10 – 6. Bowra then scored two more converted tries to lead 22 – 6 at halftime.
Failure to secure the ball from the kick-off allowed Bowra to score straight after halftime 30 – 6. Despite tries to Dane Cross and Ronnie Baff the Tigers ran away with the game 46 – 14. A winner over the Orara Valley Axemen at Coramba next Saturday is now of utmost importance.
Our U15 Girls dug deep in tough, wet conditions to come away with a 16–6 victory over Nambucca last night. The rain certainly didn’t make it easy, but the girls showed grit, determination and plenty of heart to get the job done.
We couldn’t be prouder of this team and the way they’ve continued to develop throughout the season. Their commitment, resilience and willingness to work for one another have been incredible to watch.
What a special group of young women and what a season they’re having.