Cooma United Rugby League Football Club’s Stallions emerged victorious against the Narooma Devils during the Group 16 Rugby League first grade Minor Semi Final held at Bill Smyth Oval, Narooma, on Saturday, August 16. The Stallions dominated the match, securing a 30-10 win to advance further in the finals.
PHOTO: Hooker Tristan Hamilton was influential in the ruck as he dictated the speed of play CREDITS: A.S Photography
The Stallions started strong, leading 16-6 at halftime. Their early score in the second half set the tone, but it was defence that contributed the most towards the win. The Stallions withstood extended periods of pressure from the Devils, repelling wave after wave on their try line, including three successful attempts at holding a player up over the try line.
“We really focused on our defence. Getting back to how we want it, especially turning up for each other,” commented Stallions Captain James Cahill, reflecting the team’s focus on their defence.
Cahill noted key performances in the match from Matt Fellows, Tristan Hamilton, Jacob Haeata, Brock Halls, and Keegan Caldwell who each contributed well in their roles.
PHOTO: Frustration boiled over in the second half, as three players were sent from the field.
As tensions rose on the field, a disagreement erupted, resulting in two Narooma players and one Cooma player being sent off with little time remaining. The Devils managed a late try, but it was not enough to overcome Cooma’s commanding lead.
Looking ahead, the Stallions gear up to face the Eden Tigers in an Elimination Final next Saturday, August 23, at Eden’s George Brown Oval, with kick-off scheduled for 2:45pm.
PHOTO: Full of confidence following their win on the road in Narooma, the Stallions will look to topple the Eden Tigers next Saturday.
Reflecting on the upcoming challenge, James noted, “Playing in Eden will be tough, but we’re heading in with lots of confidence. We’re nearly at full strength, and I believe we’ll be hard to stop.”
The team is excited about their current momentum and optimistic about maintaining their strong performance in the finals.