31 Aug 2022
Today, Murrumbidgee Regional High School chalked up another victory in the Buckley Shield semi-finals against Coonabarabran High School.
The match kicked off at 9.30am at the Griffith site, giving Murrumbidgee the home ground advantage. MRHS was off to a flying start when they made a perfect kick out on the bounce, which was then retrieved in the first minute.
After a few strong carries, a crafty kick from Matty Adams set up Marli Simoes for the first try of the game. Minutes later, Murrumbidgee managed to recreate the magic with another cross kick and another try from Marli.
There was a bit of back and forth and a few penalties against MRHS before Coonabarabran broke through Murrumbidgee’s defence bringing the score to 12-4. A strong run and swift backline movement saw Viliame Siale cross over just before the siren, taking MRHS to 16-4 at halftime.
The second half took a turn for the worse when an MRHS player was sent from the field after a poor tackle. The 12 remaining players were then charged with holding out against a revitalised Coonabarabran.
Another great run from Viliame Siale and a quick offload saw Tyler Penrith score under the post untouched, taking the boys to a 22-4 lead. Coonabarabran proved they were still in the game when they landed a try after pouncing on a loose carry. A final dart from dummy half saw Nate Sergi score in the corner, securing the victory 28-8.
“It was an outstanding overall effort from the boys today,” explains coach Adam McCann, “To be down to 12 men and grind out a gutsy win shows true character and pride in the MRHS jersey.”
“Special mentions go to all the staff and helpers who made our home game so special,” he continues, “I look forward to the challenge of coaching these boys to a hopeful Grand Final win in Cessnock on 13 September.”
