Redlands coaching staff have a real selection headache looming in the coming weeks as every one of the Parakeets side impressed in their hard fought 38-24 victory over a determined Slacks Creek in the Open 3 Southside competition.
Redlands, led by forwards Sabin Johnson and Jay Burley, were first to dominate in this match, with the Parakeets scoring two quick tries including centre Brian Baker Fields, who took a magnificent pass from halfback Alfie Summers.
Summers kicking and passing game was on another level for the Parakeets and he toyed with the Lions all afternoon with his razzle dazzle style of football.
The Lions however hauled themselves back into the fight after the initial onslaught and at 14-0, the deficit was reduced through electric fullback Dylan Hazard who weaved his way through the defence to open up the scoring for the home side.
Redlands though failed to heed the warning shot from the Lions and prop Dean Richard steamrolled his way over under the posts, after a magic pass from halfback Eklon Ronsen.
In an end-to-end battle, the Parakeets just showed that extra willingness to overcome their opponents at Usher Park.
Centre Baker-Fields was unstoppable. Every time the nimble three quarter grabbed the ball, his turn of pace was phenomenal, which frustrated the bigger Lions pack.
Shortly after the restart, the Lions would go in again to hit the lead for the first time in the game. After regrouping, Redlands needed to stop the resurgence of the energised Lions.
To their credit, the Parakeets did make amends just before the break by crossing again to once again take back the lead 18-16 and see both sides enjoy some respite in the hot conditions.
The tough Redlands pack continued to dominate in the second half that saw the visitors slowly getting the edge over the Lions.
Baker-Fields again would be in the right place at the right time to snatch himself another four pointer and cross untouched in the corner.
But with time running out for Slacks Creek, the Parakeets would record a faultless display running out victors for the afternoon in what was an outstanding show of talent.
Final score: Redlands 38 def Slacks Creek 24
