Excitement fills the air in West Wyalong as the annual Rugby League Knockout kicks off tonight at the Ron Crowe Oval. Now in its 52nd year, this beloved event sees teams from various regions compete for the coveted $20,000 prize.
Clubs from Groups 9, 10, 11, 16, 20, as well as Canberra Rugby League converge for the knockout games. Among the contenders are local Group 16 teams, the Cooma Stallions and Bombala Blue Heelers, who are poised to make their mark.
PHOTO: The Cooma Stallions have recruited a strong side to represent the club in 2025.
According to Local Clubs President Matt Goodwin, the event’s popularity is undeniable, evidenced by the town reaching full capacity, with “not a spare bed in sight”.
Speaking to nswrl.com.au, Goodwin highlighted the tournament’s extensive history and appeal, explaining how teams eagerly signed up before Christmas. “This is a big deal this tournament – has been for the past 52 years with its popularity never dropping.”
Cooma, benefiting from fresh talent like Liam Rankin, aims to showcase their new halves combinations, first up against Woden Valley. A spokesperson for the Cooma Stallions shared confidence in Rankin, a Cooma junior, noting the five eighth’s “versatility and premiership experience.”
Bombala, who face Orange CYMS in their first match, are also optimistic. “We can’t wait to take this side over to get some valuable experience and win a game or two along the way,” a spokesperson expressed.
Matt Goodwin anticipates competitive matches, given each game consists of two 15-minute halves. The defending champions, Woden Valley Rams, alongside Young, Forbes, and Orange, are ones to watch.
Friday night promises action-packed games, where community spirit and sportsmanship are celebrated. Rugby league legend Ron ‘Rambo’ Gibbs will grace the event, offering fans a unique meet and greet opportunity.
Goodwin extended gratitude to NSW Rugby League for their ongoing support and expressed hopes for sustaining the tournament for many years.
West Wyalong Knockout Round 1 Draw
Friday, February 28 – Ron Crowe Oval
– 6:30pm – TLU Sharks v Forbes
– 7:10pm – Parkes v West Wyalong
– 7:50pm – Young v Yanco Wamoon
– 8:30pm – Wagga South v Leeton
– 9:10pm – Cooma (6) v Woden Valley (6)
– 9:50pm – Bombala (6) v Orange CYMS (12)
– Bye round Hay
Schedule subject to change – Saturday February 29 Schedule TBC
LIVE Stream: https://livesportscaster.com/…
West Wyalong Knockout Round 2 Draw
Saturday, March 1 – Ron Crowe Oval
– 4:30pm Cooma United RLFC (0) v Forbes Magpies Rugby League (16)
– 5:10pm Parkes Spacemen Rugby League Page v Orange CYMS
– 5:50pm Young v West Wyalong
– 6:30pm Wagga City v Hay
– 7:10pm Winner G1 v Winner G2
– 7:50pm Winner G1 v Winner G2
– 9:00PM Final