The Panthers were without three Australian Defence Force players who were in Sydney on representative duties but showed plenty of commitment to grind out a win. 

Mallabulla held a slender lead 18-16 at half time with several players versatility contributing to the victory.

Hayden Thompson moved from second row to five-eight to pick up the best back award, and winger Brydon Hodson went into the forward pack to be voted best forward.

Players’ player was Jye Richardson who was non-stop in attack and defence.

This Saturday Mallabulla host Cardiff. Kick off is 3pm.

Fingal Bay Rugby League Club continued their charge up the ladder with a gutsy 28-26 win over Cardiff on Saturday, leap frogging them into third place on the table.

The very physical clash saw the scoreboard seesaw throughout the game.

It was a stunning 40m goal by Robbie Bryant in the dying minutes that sealed the victory – a credit to the Bomboras who went into the match without key players due to injuries or work commitments.

The game saw several highlights with Fingal scoring some outstanding tries. Winger Mateui Sui in full flight over the Cobras defence put the Bay in front at half time.

Clever half back Mitch Wilton scored a neat solo try and was the architect behind many attacking raids while on the hour Sui scored his second try for the game.

Fingal play West Wallsend at home this Saturday. After some tough road trips, the Bomboras look forward to a run of home games. Kick off is 3pm.

Nelson Bay Rugby Union Club travelled to No. 2 Sportsground to take on the competition heavyweights the Wanderers last Saturday.

The gropers were up for the challenge early and went to the break trailing 17-7 after fullback Chad Northcott weaved his magic with fine kick chase try.

Lock Matt James reduced the margin to seven when he scored, however the Blues attack went up a gear over a tiring Bay outfit to show why they are worthy premiership favourites.

The Gropers’ task does not get any easier when the host undefeated leaders Hamilton on Saturday at the Groperdome.