The Bombala District Rugby League Football Club showcased their strengths on Sunday May 4, in Group 16 Rugby League’s second round, driven by strong performances across different grades. The Bombala Blue Heelers First grade side had a hard fought draw against the Narooma Devils, while the High Heelers hightailed the She Devils at Bill Smyth Oval. The club’s spirit remains high after two rounds, with promising performances and noteworthy debuts setting a hopeful tone for the remainder of the season.
In the Women’s League Tag, the Bombala ladies maintained their undefeated streak with a commanding 34-4 victory against the Narooma She-Devils. This win comes on the heels of their first round triumph against The Cooma Fillies, where they were victorious 56-0.
PHOTO: The High Heelers Five-eighth Karter Hampshire CREDIT: Bombala
The young and energetic Narooma team was no match for standout Bombala players Georgie Clarke, Sam Stewart, and Monique Perkins, who led the charge with impressive performances. Meanwhile, in the absence of a Narooma reserve team, Bombala’s Reserve grade enjoyed a weekend off this round.
PHOTO: Bombala’s Five-eighth and Vice Captain Alex Rosten in flight CREDIT: Bombala
The First Grade team engaged in a hard-fought battle, managing a 26-all draw after entering the half-time break trailing 14-0. The team’s resilient second-half performance was bolstered by strong displays from Daniel Douch, Inia Tahere, and Alex Rosten. Despite missing a couple of key players due to injury, Bombala’s squad showed commendable resolve and adaptability.
PHOTO: The Blue Heelers found their dangerous backline in the 2nd half.
A highlight of the First Grade match was the debut of three promising young players: Cooper Inskip, Rylee Holland, and Jackson Tellis. Their inaugural game in the top grade did not go unnoticed. Nolan Holland, father of debutant Rylee, expressed immense pride, noting, “Myself and his mother were very proud… He’s been fighting and playing really hard football for last couple of years, and for him to get a first grade debut is fantastic.”
PHOTO: Bombala’s First Grade Debutants, Cooper Inskip, Rylee Holland, and Jackson Tellis CREDIT: Bombala
The Bombala Blue Heelers now look forward to a much-needed week off to recover and strategise for their upcoming matches. With the Eden Tigers on the horizon in round 4, Bombala coaches and players are aware of the challenge ahead. As Bailey Jones remarked, “Eden are once again very strong this year… we will need to complete well and be disciplined in defence to be in with a winning chance.”
PHOTO: Next First Grade fixture details for Bombala CREDIT: Group 16