THE Nelson Bay Gropers men’s rugby team have unearthed a trump card in fullback Sam Mitchell.
Despite a slow start to their 2025 Hunter Suburban Rugby first grade premiership campaign, the Gropers are getting top value from the energised custodian who has sparked the back division with his dashing on-field performances.
It has been a frustrating start to the season for new coach Zion Takarua with only one victory posted from three matches completed.
Heartbreaking losses to Cooks Hill Brown Snakes (18-15) and the Scone Brumbies (28-26) have proved a setback for the Nelson Bay club, which is languishing in fifth spot.
But a shining light for the 2023 champions has been the electric form shown by fleet-footed Mitchell in the fullback role.
In heavy conditions he was the best player on ground in the narrow loss to the Brumbies at Bill Strong Oval – crossing for two neat tries and creating havoc with his attacking skills.
Nelson Bay led 12-7 at the break following tries by Mitchell and legendary centre Michael Hotene and a Ryan Marshall conversion.
Mitchell burst through to score a second after the interval along with playmaker Khace Petera, before Scone rallied with a three try blitz to snatch victory.
Skilful half back Kade Redmond and tireless forward Lewis Affleck also impressed for the Gropers.
In the women’s, dynamic winger Teegan Barr starred for Nelson Bay in a 37-5 triumph over Scone.
The elusive Barr bagged four of the Gropers’ seven tries with sharp winger Tanya Jones (2) and centre Emily Harman also nabbing five pointers.
Flanker Sierra Nowlan was also a standout with hooker Jessica Beam.
No fixtures were played last weekend due to the Country Rugby Championships in Tamworth.
Suburban Rugby action resumes this Saturday when Nelson Bay host the Newcastle Griffins at Bill Strong Oval at 3pm followed by the women’s showdown against University.
By Chris KARAS
