NELSON Bay Gropers are keen for rugby action this weekend in the Hunter Suburban Men’s competition.
After registering a 28-0 forfeit victory over Newcastle Griffins, the Gropers aim to extend their winning ways when they host the Muswellbrook Heelers this Saturday at Bill Strong Oval.
Zion Takarua’s charges are entrenched in the top four on 36 points and on track for the finals with table leaders Singleton Reds (43), Scone Brumbies (42) and the Cooks Hill Brown Snakes (39).
There was no joy for the Nelson Bay women’s team after a 30-0 loss to the University of Newcastle Seahorses on home turf.
Try doubles by gun fullback Ella Morris and prop Paige Cleary and five pointers to hooker Hayley Andrews and centre Amelie Cobb-Johnson helped the Seahorses notch a resounding victory.
Nelson Bay’s forwards finished the game strongly with power running from prop Anna Rose Stefano, flankers Sophie Lembke and Jessica Love and number eight Sierra Nowlan making inroads.
Just as impressive were Gropers’ winger Ash Vetter and centre Tanya Jones, who were a rock in defence.
Talented flyhalf Kayla Campbell produced a classy performance for the Bay to earn the Players’ Player award with support from sharp winger Evie Holt, who menaced her rivals with dashing runs out wide.
Campbell combined well with half back Leah Nowlan, providing slick service to gun centres Jones and Teleah Dodd in the back division as the Gropers launched many an attacking raid but to no avail.
Nelson Bay men host Muswellbrook Heelers this Saturday at Bill Strong Oval with kick off at 3pm while the women take on Hamilton at Passmore Oval Wickham at 11.50am.
By Chris KARAS
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