In a stunning display of skill and teamwork, the Cooma Rugby Union Football Club (CRUFC) Red Devils continued their undefeated streak by overpowering the Taralga Tigers with a commanding 52-5 win on Saturday, May 3. This round 4 victory in the 2nd Division South Coast Monaro Rugby Competition marks the club’s successful start to the first of two consecutive matches away.
PHOTO: The Red Devils’ impeccable defensive efforts continued as they tamed the Tigers in round 4 CREDIT: Lissy Giagios
The Red Devils took to the field with determination, looking to secure a fourth straight win this season against a full strength Tigers team. Cooma’s robust defensive focus continued with the Devils allowing only a single try in the match, and with the result, now sit second on the competition ladder.
James Quodling, Coach of the Red Devils’ senior men’s shared, “Obviously the win was important to us as it was part of our block of two away games which we have been heavily focused on getting prepared for. Taralga managed to field a full 15 providing us with still a physical game. Travelling away to games is always hard but to have a squad of 25 makes the win that much more satisfying.”
PHOTO: James Quodling – Red Devils Coach
The match began with Taralga surprising the visitors with an early try, leading the game five nil. However, Cooma quickly regrouped and responded decisively, underpinned by the formidable tackling of forward leader Josh Harkness. From there, the Devils dominated the match with seven different players scoring tries, including two from half-back Connor Campbell.
PHOTO: After an early scare, the match opened up for Cooma’s back line CREDIT: Lissy Giagios
Quodling highlighted the collective effort of the team: “Cooma then started to take charge. Crossing the line a few times with some crisp back line moves and strong scrimmaging, resulting in a 52 to 5 win.”
Standout performances and points winners for round 4 were Josh Harkness – 3 points, Darcy Larritt – 2 points, and Sam Scarlett – 1 point, whose contributions were significant on the day.
PHOTO: Sitting second on the ladder, the Red Devils are a unified squad heading into a contest against the Dogs in round 5 CREDIT: Lissy Giagios
As the team looks to their next challenge, Quodling remains focused. “We know Crookwell will field a strong side. The key is to train hard in preparation for another competitive game this weekend,” he stated about the upcoming match against the Crookwell Dogs, currently third on the ladder.
Fans and supporters can catch the next Red Devils men’s fixture this Saturday at Crookwell Rugby Union Ground, with the game set to kick off at 2:30 pm. Meanwhile, the CRUFC women will compete in the ACT Rugby Women’s 10s Gala Day at ANU in Canberra, facing Easts Women’s 10s at 11:25 am and Hall Bushrangers at 1:15 pm. The women will be fresh off a bye in round 3.