Gallant Gropers go down
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THE injury-riddled Nelson Bay rugby union side failed to retain the annual Ben Clarke Shield, going down 31-10 to a well-drilled University outfit at Bill Strong Oval on Saturday. A big crowd was on hand to support the emotional day with former player Paul Smith donating to the Gropers clubhouse a framed football jumper representing both clubs. Uni coach Tony Hogg proved a master tactician to turn his team around after a big loss the previous week. Despite being down on troops, Gropers coach Darren Hancock had his team perform with plenty of spirit. For the Gropers captain Dan Collins led from the front, five-eighth Joe Clarke had a strong game while Chad Northcott showed plenty of courage to play on one leg. The Colts played a 19-19 draw with the students.
Mixed foursomes recovery
NELSON Bay Golf Club had their mixed foursome championship last Sunday played over 27 holes. In a marathon contest Will Semmens and Ronnie Shaw combined beautifully to win the title by two shots despite a disastrous start with quadruple and triple bogies on the first two holes. Rob Fitzgerald and Jenny Frost were runners up, while Mark Malyszko and Heather Atkins were third. Best nett scores were Doreen and Penton Sutcliffe from Max and Sandra Pride.
Bomboras bomb again
WITH the business end of the season four games away, the Fingal Bay rugby league club has struggled in recent weeks, losing back to back games. Last Saturday the Bomboras went down to competition leaders Paterson River 22-18. The game was a seesawing affair with both sides matched for most of the game, however a poor completion rate and ball control proved costly for the home side in the final quarter. Tough prop Beau Earl worked hard in the middle while Rhys York was a constant threat on the edges. Elusive centre Cameron Scully scored two fine tries and winger Jake Whitehead had another busy game. The Bomboras travel to Karuah this Saturday.
Showing how it's done
MALLABULA rugby league celebrated Old Boys and Sponsors day in style last Saturday with a 24-12 win over East Maitland. The ladder leading Panthers produced a lacklustre first half to lead 12-8 at the break, however a more committed team effort in the second stanza sealed the victory. An inspirational performance by tough forward Leigh Kelly earned him the players' player award and best forward trophy, while a lion-hearted defensive effort by centres Jesse Hughes, Jake Geraghty and winger Cody Watters saw them share the best back award. The Panthers travel to Ford Oval to do battle with arch rivals Lambton this Saturday in a match which could decide the minor premiership.