A-Grade Moree Boomerangs will head into round two of the 2018 Toohey’s Group 19 rugby league competition at the top of the ladder, after their victory over Narwan Eels on Sunday helped to consolidate their position.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
or signup to continue reading
“To finish the end of the first round in the position we’re in at the moment is good for the club and A-Grade. The team worked hard and we’ll be focusing on maintaining that position in the second round,” A-Grade coach Chris Binge said.
The Boomerangs faced off against the Eels at Newling Oval in Armidale last week and brought home a 34-24 win. Though, Binge admitted it was no easy victory.
READ ALSO:
“To go to Armidale was a big effort. In the first-half of the match the team was dominant and had a good lead of 18-8. We went into the second-half well for the first 20 minutes but then we had a bad run with penalties and possession. The Eels really fought back.”
The team was down a front rower at the start of the game, due to personal reasons. From then on, their numbers only dwindled further.
Kyle Butler, Caleb Binge and Brian Saunders each sustained an injury during the first half of the game. Their injuries will be assessed later tonight to determine if they are fit to play at this week’s game.
“Then 10 minutes into the second-half of the match, we had no players on the bench: one player was sent to the sin-bin for 10 minutes,” Binge said.
With everything seemingly against the Boomerangs, Binge said the boys showed their stripes and persevered.
“The boys really dug in deep and played well defensively to hold off the Eels. This time last year we lost two close games at Armidale. We knew what was at stake.”
The A-Grade team shares 12 points with second-place Boars. Binge said he would work hard to keep the Boomerangs at the top.
“The team set the goal at the start of the season to be on top of the ladder. Now it’s about maintaining that spot. Everyone’s fitness levels are up across the clubs, after playing seven matches. The competition will be stronger, but the Boomerangs will fight to stay.”
Reserve Grade took home a 26-20 win and sit first place on the ladder with 13 points.
U18s had a bye and are placed third on the ladder.
Ladies league-tag enjoyed a 26-4 victory. The team dominate the ladder and share 12 points with second-place Boars and third-place Glen Innes Magpies.
The Boomerangs will take on Glen Innes Magpies at their Burt Jovanovick on Saturday.
