Following round three across the Highlands, there is no doubt the players will be keen for the long school holiday break following the hot and humid conditions they have experienced since the start of the season. This week, Presidents were asked to nominate a Play of the Day performance.
In Emerald, the Tigers played host to Springsure and the Gemfields in the Under 6s through to the Under 12s, while in the older age groups, they challenged the Emerald Brothers. It took until the last game of the day for President Craig Barsby to select his play of the day.
The Under 16s Tigers have not had the best of starts and went into the game with two losses under their belts. Midway through the third quarter, the Brothers, well into their set of six, were attacking hard against the Tigers defensive line. “The boys were doing it tough. It was hot, and they were being driven back by the relentless Brothers attack.”
From nowhere, Tyrese (TJ) Roberts intercepted a pass, and took advantage of the fullback being part of the Brothers attacking raid. He ran for 50 metres untouched to score a four pointer.
“The play gave the boys the lift they needed to tough out the game, and finish with their first win of the season.” Barsby said. “It was definitely the turning point in the close game, and deserved the Play of the Day.”
In Clermont, the name on everyone’s lips was Will McMahon. This pocket dynamo had played the game of his life in the Under 10s game against the Peak Downs Pirates.
To begin with, he scored his first try since 2012, and followed this up with a successful conversion. Most notable however was his strong and committed defence which saw him at one stage complete all of the tackles in one set of six.
“Will has always been a solid defender, with a perfect technique,” President Wendy Johnstone said.
“This week he also showed a great deal of leadership, and commitment to the team effort. His performance was worthy of the Play of the Day.”
The Central Highlands Junior Rugby League season now goes into break for the school holidays, Easter and Anzac Day weekends and will resume on May 3.
