Rarely does a clash between Gundagai Tigers and Tumut Blues let spectators down and last Saturdays Round 11 match of the Group 9 First Grade Premiership was no different.
Whilst the Tigers were riding high in first position, the Blues had only two wins to their credit and although it seemed like a mis-match on paper, those in attendance at Anzac Park were treated to an entertaining afternoon of Rugby League in which the home side prevailed 24-22.
After being far from convincing in the three matches prior to the weekends game, the Tigers were looking to start being more consistent in their performances but a determined Blues side made life a little tougher than most had anticipated for the reigning premiers.
In his second game in First Grade for the season after starring in Reserve Grade, Corey Wilson bagged a double for the Tigers as did crafty halfback Derek Hay, while strike centre James Morgan also crossed for Gundagai with only two of the five tries being converted in the two point victory.
Michael Fenn grabbed a rare double for the Blues, with tireless lock Jordan Anderson and winger Fynn Debono completing the try scoring for Tumut along with three of the four tries being converted.
Tigers coach Hayden Ashcroft said he was most pleased with his sides work without the ball.
“We continue to turn up defensively which is super pleasing to see. Sides are getting themselves right up for the challenge of playing against us so again, our start was disappointing, but we are finding ways to win when we don’t play our best footy, which is good.”
Ashcroft was full of praise for Hay, along with a couple of his representative team mates.
“Derek was outstanding, scoring two tries and kicking a crucial 40/20, while Royce Tout and Wilson Hamblin were strong through the middle, getting through a mountain of work.”
Gundagai travel up the Hume Highway this Sunday to take on the Albury Thunder and will no doubt be wary of an ambush from the Thunder, as the side from the border sit on exactly the same points on the competition ladder as last weekends opponent, meaning complacency shouldn’t be an issue amongst the men in Black and Orange.
Results in lower grades: Under 18s – Gundagai 28 def Tumut 4, League Tag – Tumut 10 def Gundagai 6, Reserve Grade – Tumut 28 def Gundagai 12.
Aaron Byrne
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