For Gundagai, reaching a Group 9 grand final has become almost something of a tradition.
The Tigers will return to the biggest stage when they take on Temora in the Group 9 Great Northern Premiership Grand Final, with the club chasing back-to-back premierships after edging Wagga Kangaroos 10-6 in last year’s decider.
It is familiar territory for a club that has established itself as one of Group 9’s dominant forces over the past decade and a half.
Since 2011, Gundagai have missed just five grand finals, while claiming five premierships from the past 12 seasons.
Already boasting six Group 9 premierships to their name – their first in 1983 – the Tigers now have the opportunity to add another chapter to the club’s impressive recent history.
Standing in their way, however, will be a Temora side with its own history against Gundagai on grand final day.
The two clubs last met in a grand final 20 years ago, when the Dragons claimed victory in the 2006 decider.
Temora also had the better of Gundagai when the sides met in the 2004 grand final, making this year’s clash another chapter in a rivalry that has already produced two premiership deciders.
For the Tigers, though, history will count for little when the two sides take the field.
Having already secured their place in this year’s decider with a commanding 42-6 victory over Temora in the major semi-final, Gundagai will enter the grand final with their sights firmly set on continuing their remarkable run of success.
A victory would not only secure consecutive premierships, but further cement Gundagai’s standing as one of country rugby league’s powerhouse clubs of the modern era.
PLAYER PROFILES
Will Herring – Gundagai local that has thrived since moving to fullback. Can create try scoring opportunities for team-mates but also has an uncanny ability in scoring them himself at important times.
Corey Wilson – Started the season in Reserve Grade but forced his way into the top side through performances and has made the most of his opportunity. Safe as houses at the back and is the side’s goal kicker.
Gabriel Gul – Unstoppable at his best. Chosen in the Group 9 Team of the Year for a reason, an absolute wrecking ball. Can come up with crunching tackles along with leaving defenders in his wake when in possession.
James Morgan – A big body out wide who is consistently dangerous. One of the better centres in the competition. Strong runner of the ball who can find the line with ease.
Sailusi Temaka – Another member in the Team of the Year. One of the most exciting players in the Group. Strong, fast and can find space and finishes off any half chances he receives. Tigers leading try scorer.
Tyron Gorman – There isn’t much Gorman hasn’t achieved when it comes to Gundagai and Group 9 rugby league. Since moving into the halves, his game has come on in leaps and bounds. Strong carrier of the ball and outstanding kick and pass selection.
Derek Hay – The General. Super consistent and has a sensational ability in the way he directs his side. Plays with his heart on his sleeve and is a real competitor.
Joe Tahaafe – One of the most underrated forwards in the competition. Has had a huge season. Powerful carry andcreates momentum with finding his front through the middle.
Wilson Hamblin – A energetic presence in the middle of the field, that has had a stellar season and earned a well deserved spot in the Group 9 Team of the Year along with Gul and Temaka.
Hayden Ashcroft – The sides coach, who had big shoes to fill after the sides premiership last season. Has handled expectation incredibly well and is a real workhorse through the middle, doing plenty that often goes unnoticed. Will carry himself to a standstill.
Jack Elphick – Another Gundagai local who is a dangerous runner of the football on the edge. Plays the game hard and will not shirk the task.
Mark Asquith – Mr Fix-it. Can play anywhere across the park, but has found a home on the edge late in the season and has been one of the Tigers best since. Offers a real sense of calmness.
Royce Tout – A leader of the group that plays tough and carries the side forward. Makes the rest of the team feel safe just through his sheer presence and will be in the top handful of players come full-time.
James Luff – A real boost for the side since his return in Round 7. Opens the game up once he enters the field and has done it all. His experience will be invaluable.
Sheldon Diaz – A big body, who has an aggressive approach and brings plenty of energy when he is injected.
Benjy Hannan – Returning from injury. Is strong, is tough and a real worker. Will do whatever is asked of him.
Pat Birch – Missed the Major Semi but also returns in time for the Grand Final. Offers a real energy and punch through the middle.
Nick McDonald – Great footwork and punches well above his weight through the middle. If required, will not let anyone down.
Meli Drau – Offers cover for the outside backs. Has a strong carry and has no trouble scoring if the line is within reach.
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