5th Grade win the Grand Final!  (Sutherland Cup)Led by the tireless Ray Byrne the mighty Quins 5th Grade were triumphant over Mosman at TG Milner Oval at Eastwood.
The first 10 minutes of the match were a real arm wrestle with neither team giving an inch. Mosman were first to be penalised and the boot of Nathan Willard took the Harlequins to a 3-0 lead. Both teams seemed intent on kicking themselves into the game untill the Harlequins finally crossed (Josh Tailby) and missed the conversion to take the lead to 8-0 going into half time. The second half saw Mosman pick up the intensity without success as the Harlequin defence scrambled to cover all raids. Mosman stayed withthe kicking tactic and Nathan Willard at fullback was solid in cover along with Josh Tailby. Mosman had the majority of possession in the second half finally taking a long arm and converting successfully. The last 10 minutes saw Mosman throw everything they had to attempt to beat the Harlequin defence. The Harlequin forwards stepped up the intensity to keep out the fast finishing Mosman. The turning point was in the 40th minute when the Harlequin Pigs pushed the Mosman scrum off their own feed. Possesion was all Mosmans for the last 3 minsutes as the Harleqins stayed camped in their quarter. Some desperate defence saw two Harleqin players yellow carded and the remaining 13 players defended like men possessed to hold out Mosman untill the final whistle. Post match celebrations were lead by Ted Thompson in honour of Grahame "Thomo" Thompson who sadly passed away last year. Thanks to all the coaches, trainers and supporters who showed subbies how a real Rugby Club celebrates. |
