In intense round 6 fixtures held yesterday at the Cooma Showgrounds, the Cooma United Rugby League Football Club (CURLFC) faced off against the travelling Bega Roosters in three grades of Group 16 Rugby League. While the Fillies had a difficult day out, the Stallions reserve and first grade sides emerged victorious, showcasing their resilience and determination to keep their seasons alive.
PHOTO: Playmaker Maddie Banks finds her self in space despite the result CREDIT: Trish Sullivan Photography
The day’s proceedings began with the Women’s League Tag side, who encountered a challenging 56-0 defeat to a formidable Bega Chicks side. The Stallions reserve grade team however, quickly turned the tide for the home crowd, securing a spirited 26-14 victory, marking their return to the winners’ circle.
PHOTO: In a touching moment for the Stallions reserve grade side, father and son, Creedence (right) and Tyrell Bartlett (left) played together. CREDIT: CURLFC
In the first grade clash, the Stallions clinched a crucial and season-defining 14-8 win against the Bega Roosters. This victory was vital for keeping their finals aspirations alive. Cooma Stallions’ half-back, Liam Rankin, expressed the team’s elation while waiting for an x-ray on his shoulder this morning, stating, “All the boys and coaching staff are over the moon with a hard-fought win. It has been coming for weeks, and we finally got it done.”
PHOTO: Centre Mitchell Sullivan dragging Roosters with him in another run CREDIT: Trish Sullivan Photography
Rankin highlighted the team’s improved defence, a key focus after last season’s shortcomings. “Defence has been our priority this year,
after conceding too many points last year. We conceded one quick try off a poor defensive effort in the first 10 minutes and then we held them out until the last minute of the game,” he noted.
Rankin commended standout performances from centre Mitchell Sullivan who took the three points for players player, alongside captain James Cahill who “made a big impact through the middle again,” and full-back Keegan Caldwell, who “took hit-ups like a prop forward.”
PHOTO: The win will keep the Cooma faithful excited ahead of round 8 CREDIT: Trish Sullivan Photography
Looking forward, the Stallions have a three-week break due to a bye and the June long weekend before they host the Eden Tigers giving some of the wounded men a chance to recover. Fans can mark their calendars for Saturday, June 21, with kick-off scheduled for 2:30 pm at the Cooma Showgrounds. This match promises to be another exciting chapter in the Stallions’ season, as they look to continue their momentum following this crucial win.