Playing at the “Groperdome” on Saturday, the Bay posted a significant 35 to 18 win against first grade rivals Merewether Carlton.

From five games played so far this season, the Gropers have won two.

Both of them at home.

Saturday’s win came after the Bay’s round two defeat of Southern Beaches with a similar scoreline, 31-18.

Buoyed by vocal supporters on the sidelines, the Gropers came out strong against Merewether Carlton and led 6-3 after 25 minutes of play.

Hooker Dan Collins and centre Michael Hotene scored tries late in the first half to hold a handy 20-6 lead at half time. 

Nelson Bay rallied after an early lapse in the second half to score twice.

Astute kicking by five-eight Michael Wairingi and full-back Chad Northcott had Merewether’s defence on the back foot.

The Bay continued to shift the ball to the edges in the second half to maintain the pressure to eventually claim the win in an at times spiteful match.

In a solid team effort Corey Lovell, Hamish Bartlett and Rhys Cutbush were strong performers.

The Bay will host Maitland at the Groperdome on Saturday.

In second grade it was Merewether Carlton who claimed the win against the Gropers 0-65.

It was a similar story in colts where Merewether 2 claimed the win against the Bay 5-58.

Second grade and Colts also face Maitland at home on Saturday.