Avondale hosted the first set of fixtures in Round 2 of the NDRL competition with Miriam Vale taking on Agnes Water in the first game.
The fiercely competitive rivalry developed over the past two years between the two clubs only intensified following a gruelling 80 minutes of footy with the crowd verbally supporting both teams for the duration of the match.
Five-eighth Tim McIntosh in his first game back following a work injury scored early then converted his own try but Miriam Vale’s Dale Fischer crossed next with the try being converted to take the score to 6 all. Batchelor kicked off the second half with a try but failed to convert taking the pies within reach of the Marlins at 18-20.
Ex Miriam Vale player Jason Sykes scored a double for the Marlins with Rodney McIntosh, Andrew Noy and young Dylan Stitt adding to the Marlins tally with Tim McIntosh converting five from six to ensure the Marlins victory over the Magpies 34-28. Miriam Vale’s Jason Batchelor scored a double but only managed to convert two from six.
Miriam Vale didn’t capitalise on the overlap when Agnes Water player Darren Brennan was sinned bin then later sent off for the match. Miriam Vale will have to work harder next time these two meet as the Marlins are two from two this season.
In the main game South Kolan with their eight Tongan born players who have helped turned around their dismal start to the 2014 season, took on Avondale at the Tigers home ground. South Kolan got up last time these two teams met securing their first win of the season beating the Tigers at Gin Gin 32-26.
The two clubs and supporters eagerly awaited kick off for this game. Having 14 new players from the Pacific Islands has sparked new interest in supporters of rugby league who are keen to watch the style of footy these lads play. The Sharks and Tigers hammered one another with the game being played strongly in the forwards with some of the biggest hits seen in NDRL for some time.
Sharks front rower Sione Moi Moi scored three tries proving he was unstoppable near the line with the Tigers desperately trying to hold him out repeatedly. Avondale’s new weapon Lock Viliami Tufulele scored a double on debut for his new club and was well supported by Pita Puafisi, David Jones and Sunny Carmen.
Following the 80 minute match both teams looked battle weary. Both sides displayed some great moments to be remembered for years to come. Well done to both coaches on a close game of football. Avondale Tigers coach Michael O’Sullivan has got him team back on track attacking and defensively and was pleased with his team’s victory.
Next week Gin Gin takes on Agnes with Miram Vale playing South Kolan.
It is Women In League Round at Gin Gin on May 18 so come dressed in your best pink outfits.
