Recap

Dirty Twos bow out of finals race with narrow loss

By Chris Gordon

So close, and yet so far. The strong finishing Goulburn Dirty Reds second grade side came within a try of living another day in the semi finals race, but lost by five points to the Queanbeyan Whites.

The Dirty Twos had the result right there in the palms of their hands. Hands that they couldn’t feel due to the horrible conditions. Weather apps said that it was 6 degrees but felt like it was some ridiculously low minus number and you’d woken up on the frozen tundra of the Antarctic wearing nothing but jocks and maybe a pair of socks if you’re lucky and you’re eyelids were freezing shut from the wind chill related tears. Don’t blame me, that’s what the apps said.

It was as unpleasant as playing conditions could be with both sides, a ref, two touch judges and the small crowd all reconsidering the choices they’d made in life that had led them to this spot on this day.

But the game must go on.

Attacking plays were hesitant and often uncompleted by both sides for much of the first half. Largely due to that weather, passes from both teams frequently went to ground – not so much due to a wet ball but more a matter of freezing cold hands not making for the most receptive of catching implements.

Goulburn was first on the board, however, with a Josh Metz try and Pat Craig conversion. Goulburn continued to have good field position on the back of a strong kicking game but points were elusive. Queanbeyan struck back with an unconverted try leaving the Dirty Twos still ahead until two minutes from the break Queanbeyan scored again to take the half time lead.

Thirteen minutes into the second stanza Queanbeyan scored again to extend their lead to twelve points. Goulburn continued to test the Whites but their defence held firm until Hamish Baird crossed for Goulburn’s second try, again converted by Pat Craig, to find Goulburn just 5 points six points shy of the lead.

It was a typically consistent and unwavering effort from the Dirty Twos, the bulk of whom are still young enough to play in a Colts competition. Despite not making the semis, it’s but a courageous and impressive season from the side, including many newcomers to senior rugby who have been asked to not only make their senior debuts but the back up and play two games week after week. Which they’ve gladly done, unflinchingly. Players like Pat Craig, for instance, who not only picked up one best and fairest point and Players Player in this match, but then turned around and picked up three best and fairest points in first grade. There are many similar examples ant here can be no questioning the ticker of this side. Should the club hopefully retain this side they’ll see a swag of wins coming their way very soon.

Next weekend both men’s sides will be playing at home for the club’s Sponsors’ Day.

Queanbeyan 19 bt Goulburn 14 (Hamish Baird, Josh Metz tries, Pat Craig 2 conversions).

Best & Fairest points:

3 – Jack White
2 – Jack Burke
1 – Pat Craig

Players Player:

Pat Craig

By the clock:

14 mins – Josh Metz try, Pat Craig conversion (7-0)
23 mins – Queanbeyan try (7-5)
32 mins – Queanbeyan converted try (7-12)

48 mins – Queanbeyan converted try (7-19)
33 mins – Hamish Baird try, Pat Craig conversion (14-19)