Recap

Strong finish not enough against determined Whites

By CHRIS GORDON

Undefeated throughout 2020, the Goulburn second grade start fell short in their opening match for 2021, losing to Queanbeyan by 25-15.

Despite the loss, the four tries to three win by Queanbeyan was the best result so far for the Dirty Twos against Queanbeyan in this grade. The Whites have won all previous encounters, usually by hefty margins and never by less than 17 points. 

The Goulburn side looked formidable on paper, with half a dozen of the starting side experienced first graders, but Queanbeyan through a curve-ball even before the match started, requiring uncontested scrums.

The Reds had the larger slice of possession in the first quarter but the Whites were first to score with an unconverted try at the 16-minute mark. 

Goulburn fullback Josh Condylios equalised with his own five pointer ten minutes later and at the break scores were level.

Shortly into the second half, Matt Spratley put Goulburn in front but quick back-to-back converted tries by Queanbeyan in the 36th and 39th minute put Goulburn on the back foot at 19-10.

A fourth Queanbeyan try tended their lead to 14 points but Brandon Courts added five more for Goulburn at the sixty-minute mark.

While games in this grade are scheduled for 70 minutes, the ref pulled this one up ten minutes. It was a bit disappointing for the resurgent Reds, however Queanbeyan had been the dominant team throughout the match and deserving winners.

For the Reds, closing the margin between the two sides to nine points and even leading Queanbeyan at one stage bodes well for their next encounter.

A highlight of the game was the swag of senior rugby debuts for the Reds, including Kyi Fitzgibbon, Brad Sparrow, Josh Metz, Rhys Eliott and Josh Condylios. Equally highlighty was the welcome return of seasoned campaigner Justin “Ricky Bobby” Benn who brought with him his trademark shake and bake.

Next weekend the Dirty Twos take on Uni Norths at ANU North Oval.

Best and fairest points for Goulburn went to Matt Spratley (3), Josh Condylios (2) and Josh Hannan (1) with Condylios also named Players’ Player.

Queanbeyan 24 bt Goulburn 15 (Spratley, Condylios, Courts tries).

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