After the losses by the Under 19s Western Lions – Saints and the Reggies, they now sit second and fourth on their respective ladders, dropping from equal first and second. A Grade, however, are now in outright second spot.

Mothers Day duties prevented a detailed description of the matches, but summarised below.

Under 19s:   Lost 30-32

After trailing 12-14 at half time, Western Lions – Saints hit the lead early in the second half before falling into a momentary coma and allowing Brothers to strectch out to a 18-32 lead before they finally snapped out of it. A great surge at the end, courtesy of two late tries to Tristan Nelliman-Adams, almost snatched victory from the jaws of defeat, but it was not to be.

Coach ‘Moses’ will continue to work on getting his charges to remain focused for the entire match, as lapses that can be overcome with the lesser teams, just cant be afforded against those beside them on the ladder.

Scorers:  Tristan Nelliman-Adams (2 tries), Adam Bugeja, Jordan Remfrey, Richard Martin (1 try), Kurth worth (4 goals), Ryan Emerson (1 goal).

Reggies:  Lost 10-34

It’s fair to say that the FUGS have had a love affair with the Reggies for a few seasons. A sort of Bromance. Enjoying their never say die attitude and thrilling finishes to matches. Unfortunately, if Andrew Johns was to describe their performance against Brothers, it would be with that one word he has now bceome synonymous with, “OFF”.  (perhaps: Ciguatera)

They just never got into their rythym.  A lone try to the Red Man (Adam Hume) in the first half had them trailing 4 – 18.  Then perhaps our best on the day, Zac Redfern, scored to get it to 10-18 in the second half, following Zac Anderson’s conversion. But, that was all he wrote and the final score of 10-34 was easily the most disappointing result so far this season.

After the game ‘Macca’ asked them to remember how they felt and use that as a motivator for the next game.

A Grade:  Won 40-28

Simeon Fuller led the players out onto the field as captain and then continued to lead them all day, with a strong Captain’s Knock, which included two tries. Tries also to Joe Zaro and PJ Hart and Nathaniel Bowman’s ever reliable boot resulted in six goals, with the inevitable couple from the sideline. Bowman also scored three tries in another great performance after having to back up from representative duties the day before.

The scoreline sounds convincing. It was anything but. They trailed 0-12 after fifteen minutes and as the FUGS argued with the Brothers supporters at the bar, they could only argue that the better team was on top at that time. No surprises though that the Saints resurgence conicided with ‘Marto’ bringing on Mitch Kaminski from the bench.  Zaro’s try could easily have been countered by Brothers if not for some defiant goal line defence, lead by Kaminski. He seemed determined to make up for lost time during the season after having been away on work duties.

Another new boy, but big boy, Ray Inskip ‘Skip’, also came on to make an impact with his strong runs and surprising speed.  Bowman burrowed over from dummy half to level the scores at 12 all and then when two long passes by Bowman and PJ Hart found Fuller out wide to the left, he faked to his winger before cutting back inside, beating two defenders and scoring. The FUGS were not entirely surprised at the comeback, but they were when Bowman failed to raise the flags with the conversion.

With three minutes to go until half time, workaholic Jake McManus, was again on hand to clear up a dangerous chip from Brothers and allow Uni to complete an important set. Bowman was tackled on the fifth and it was left to Hart to clear the ball. The atempted charge down by the opposition only served to create some handy back spin for PJ’s follow up and his regather at pace allowed him to go untouched beside the posts and the FUGS were now simply arguing about who’s shout it was. Half time: 22-12.

The start of the second half was similar to the first and Brothers dominated for the first ten minutes to level the scores at 22-22. Until, at the thirteenth minute ‘Captain’ Fuller charged down a Brothers clearance to regather and score under the posts.  The next Brothers try was a bit too easy, with three basic hit ups gaining strong ground and then on the fourth another strong run saw them drag defenders over the line to again level it up at 28-28. Brothers were running with the strong breeze in the second half and using it to gain good field position. Uni countered with good hit ups by Jordan Tawhai, Ronnie Geia and eighteen year old, Ben Mathiou.

The Uni forwards forged and got them into better field position and they were awarded a penalty with fifteen minutes to go. For a short period Uni had struggled to get any decent field position and the FUGS felt this was the time to capitalise. So, when Bowman instead lined the ball up to take a penalty goal, the FUGS were a little bemused, but quickly reminded themsleves of last week when a field goal with twenty minutes left on the clock turned out to be an inspired decision.

The goal was successful and the Saints were back in front 30-28.  On reflection, it seemed that Bowman had identifed that there’s a positive energy that comes from the Saints when they have the lead and an even bigger one from when they regain it.

Another strong run from the kick off by Mathiou got Uni on the front foot and then on the fourth, Fuller once again broke tackles, dummied one defender and then drew the full back to put Bowman over under the posts. It was Deja vu as once again in the blink of an eye, Uni had gone to a lead beyond one converted try. Inside the last ten minutes the Saints were in again. A huge bomb into the breeze by PJ resulted in it being spilt by Brothers and from the scrum, Bowman chimed into the back line out wide to step, swerve and sqaure dance his way over and lead 40-28.

Brothers did not throw in the towel though and continued to kick the ball down field and pressure the Uni attack and an error had them where they wanted to be. The threw everything at the Saints line and two consecutive penalties made the Saints defence work over time in the last five minutes.  Kaminski once again stepped up and his tireless tackling seemed to inspire his team mates as they protected their line like a dog does his bone.

The final score remained unchanged at 40-28 and the FUGS went away quietly whispering, only to themselves, “back to back”.

Coming weeks:  Bye for all Clubs this weekend.  On Saturday 25th May we’re back at   JOE BAKER FIELD where we host Herbert River, who lead A Grade, and are third and fourth respectively in Reserves and Under 19s.

The Tom Waterhouse market mover for the last four rounds is Tax Tav, who has soared into 7th spot, courtesy of a perfect score in round 7, together with Cliche, who climbed to 15th, but brushes off compliments as they are just a veneer on a rusting facade. In the middle of them sits eldinko and many others, in a jam packed bunch, where one bad week could see you slide into oblivion.

iallgivyathetip just sneeks into the top half of the ladder, but only because Gustips rejoined the FUGS League during the last few rounds and took our total numbers to thirty eight. Desert Fox is floundering in 29th spot and looking for an oasis, along with Mitch who stares into his empty boutique beer wondering how he went so wrong, so quickly.

In a clear last spot, HIGGOSNR, needs to stop asking the next door neighbours cat to do his tips each week … you know he’s going to pick the Tigers and the Panthers all the time.

Not quite a third of the way there yet and plenty of time to make a move … up or down.

The Mighty Uni SAINTS were hosting the Centrals Tigers who had been in good recent form in all three grades and everyone was eagerly awaiting the contests.

Under 19s:  Won 40 – 12

Uni Life Member, Father Rod Ward, was on hand early to lead the 19s in prayer as a remembrance to Alex Elisala who past away during the week. Elisala was a former Ignatius Park student, as are many of the Western Lions – Saints Under 19s. Perhaps their thoughts were still elsewhere when Centrals scored first after five minutes to lead 0 – 6. However, from the kick off an intercept to dummy half, Ryan Emmerson, saw him narrowly out last the cover defense to score in the left corner. Emmerson was unsuccessful with his conversion attempt, but his try was enough to get the boys refocused.  From the next set Moses Nelliman-Adams put Richard Martin into space on the right wing but bundled into touch 20 meters out.

At the fifteen minute mark, two consecutive strong runs by the big men, Ben Mathiou and Thomas Utromu had Centrals on the back foot. An immediate spread to the left resulted in a loose pass, but, Jordan Remfrey pounced on it to quickly reignite the play and put Adam Bugeja, playing his first game for the club, into the left corner. His attempt only missed marginally, but the Western Lions – Saints were in front 8 – 6 and well on top. Only a couple of minutes later they were back inside the opposition half and attacking their line. Half Mitchell Gray went to the defensive line and drew the opposition before throwing a slick inside ball to Adam Roberts and as he was being tackled he found Angus Wilson in support with a great one handed off load and the try was scored under the posts. Bugeja converted to extend the lead to 14 – 6.

Mathiou was warming to the task with some strong runs and another was followed up by Celestino Ross who got a quick play the ball for Nick Evans to scoot from dummy half, catching the defense in two minds before off loading to Martin in support and he also scored under the posts to give Bugeja another easy conversion … 20 – 6.  Coach ‘Moses’ uses Ross cleverly off the bench and his impact was once again significant when off a penalty tap he made another of his bullocking runs, attracting three defenders before sensing support on his inside to cleverly off load to Bugeja, who was having a great debut, and the conversion of his own try further extended the lead to 26 – 6.  Just before half time Nelliman-Adams broke through inside his own 20 meters and threatened to run the length of the field before chipping back inside for the ball to just beat a fast chasing Martin over the dead ball line.

It only took five minutes of the second half before Nelliman-Adams was in to score in the right corner after the forwards had drawn the Centrals defense into the middle with some strong runs.  For the next ten minutes it was end to end stuff until Western Lions – Saints gave away four penalties in a row as a result of ill discipline and had to defend desperately for numerous sets, which they did, to then return the ball back up the other end. At the end of the set Gray chipped accurately across field and the pressure resulted in a dropped ball by Centrals and Bugeja was clearly showing his value with a try and conversion and at 36 – 6 it was well and truly over.

Centrals hit back momentarily with eight minutes to go to bring the lead back to 24 points and continued to attack the Western Lions – Saints line for the next set, but the defense was once again up to the task and further compounded Centrals frustration by once again returning the ball back up the other end. Five eighth, Daniel Morgan ran to the line and held the ball up deftly for a hard running Martin, who still had to beat two defenders to score the final try and round out the full time score.

Once again coach ‘Moses’ praised the efforts of his forwards, who on numerous occasions repelled raid after raid from the opposition with desperate goal line defense and then backed up with strong runs to allow the backs to capitalise. Mathiou was rewarded with an A Grade bench spot.

With a seven out of eight success rate (including Trials), the coach is happy with their position after the first full round of fixtures and felt that keeping a consistent set of left and right combinations had been the key so far. They remain on top of the ladder, still on equal points with Brothers.

Reggies:   Lost 18 – 34

Centrals lead the Reserve Grade competition and it didn’t take long to show why. Three minutes is all it took before their winger went seventy meters to score and then from the kick off an attempted knock down from the Uni marker brought Centrals tackle count back to six and they scored at the end of the set. Inside ten minutes the deficit was already twelve points.

It was almost twenty minutes into the half before the Saints were able to create some consistent field position and a sixth tackle grubber by Keiren Crowley got Uni another repeat set via a goal line drop. It was clear that Centrals defense was as well structured as their attack as they continued to repel the Uni attacking raids close to their line, despite the efforts of Crowley, Grant Ryan and his ageless namesake, Mick Ryan.

With three minutes left till half time it was Grant Ryan who finally scored for the Saints.  Having squeezed into the number four jumper, Ryan does not fit the profile of a sleek centre three quarter, but he is comfortable running hard on the fringes and that’s where he barged over for Gerry Eskalada to convert and peg the lead back to 6 – 12.  That score might have been satisfying for the coaches at half time considering Centrals dominance, but for a try right on the buzzer to have Uni trailing 6 – 16.

Centrals continued to apply the pressure on the resumption and only desperate goal line defense for the first ten minutes prevented the score from blowing out significantly. The pressure eventually told in the twelfth minute when a converted try by the opposition made it 6 – 22.  That became 6 – 28 with another converted try with fifteen minutes to go.  The Saints never gave up and tried to go in behind the well organised Centrals defense by grubbering before the sixth on more than one occasion. With seven minutes to go they finally went over when Luke Cooke rounded out a strong game with a barging try and the conversion took their tally to 12.  Off the kick off, another strong performer in Hayden Te-Moana off loaded to Crowley, who scored for Eskalada to convert and at 18 – 28 the FUGS were musing over another Reggies come back.  

That was put to bed when the ball was spilt from the kick off and then Centrals scored again with only three minutes left on the clock. The final score of 18 -34 was perhaps reflective of a very well drilled Centrals team who dominated for most of the match. ‘Macca’ agreed that Centrals will take some beating this year and was particularly impressed with their defense. Nevertheless, he couldn’t fault the effort put in by Uni and if not for some early injuries to Wregge and Harris, the score line may have been closer.  Despite the loss, The Reggies stay in third spot on the ladder.

A Grade:   Winners 37 – 24

Sean Evans earned a recall to the A Grade wing following Joe Zaro’s withdrawal for personal reasons and with Algon Congoo departing the Club after finding work in another region, the FUGS thought the logical centre replacement would be Hayden Crowley. However, coach ‘Marto’ thought otherwise and moved last week’s top full back performer, Daniel Pickering into the centres with Crowley wearing the number one. The bench included two regular under 19s in Ben Mathiou who had already played earlier in the day, and after consistent performances, Paul Bunungan, deserved his chance to impress in the top grade.

Saints and Centrals swapped sets of six to start the contest then after five minutes Crowley made the first of his many strong runs to almost put Shaq Congoo in the right corner. Uni quickly spread the ball back to the left and from one corner to the other, Simeon Fuller was over for the first try of the afternoon.  Déjà vu from last week and Bowman’s kick sailed between the posts. 6 – nil.

From the kick off, the Saints got to their kick again and it was a good one by half, PJ Hart, who got the 40-20 and put his team straight back on the attack. From the scrum they went immediately right to stretch the Centrals defense and then a long pass from Bowman found Hart in a yawning gap and under the posts to score.  12 – nil. Another completed set from the kick off continued Uni’s dominance of field position and then after fifteen minutes Hart was at it again with a grubber kick into the Centrals in goal to see it grounded by the opposition and causing a goal line drop. The Saints pressured the Centrals line for the full set and Crowley then chipped to the right to find Josiah Geia who in turn got the ball to Pickering and he was in the corner for the third try. Corners just mean that Nathaniel Bowman has to kick the ball a bit further to get it between the posts, but it’s only the distance that changes. The score was already 18 nil and the FUGS were oohhhing and aaahhhing in between their hot chips and cold beers.

The Saints immediately had to defend a set on their line after dropping the ball and then conceding a penalty. Fuller diffused a bomb, but then another period of poor handling had the opposition attacking for two sets of six before desperate goal line defense finally allowed the Saints to regain possession and complete a set and get things back on track. In turn, when Centrals kicked back to Uni after completing their set, Crowley returned it with interest as his aggressive running style was causing havoc for the front on Centrals defense. He was having a strong game already and the decision to slot him into full back proving to be wise one.  That’s why coach ‘Marto’ gets paid the big bucks.

Centrals finally went in for their first try after a messy in goal grubber pin balled off several sets of legs before being dived on by an opposition player. 18 – 6. But, with three minutes to go, it was Crowley again who busted the Centrals line and scored for Bowman to convert and take the half time score to 24 – 6.  Towards the end of the first half the Under 19 debutants, Mathiou and Bunungun both got game time and contributed with strong runs.

Eighteen points were scored in the first twelve minutes of the second half and none of them by Uni.  It was if they were late coming out of the sheds and Centrals started without them. Poor execution and ball security and ill disciplined penalties made life easy for the opposition as they rampaged through some feeble Uni defense.  24 – 24.

The Saints finally settled and again started completing their sets. At the end of one a Bowman chip on the last had the Centrals full back caught in goal and a drop out was required. A the end of the next set the FUGS felt that another repeat set was in order, but Bowman thought differently, and with still 22 minutes left he slammed over a field goal to get Uni back in front 25 -24. The FUGS stood staring at each other in amazement. “Give him some nasal spray” they called, ‘He’s suffering from premature execution”.

Uni needed to complete their next set from the kick off after that unusual play and that they did and then got a penalty. Jake McManus continually plays above his weight and made another strong run which was followed up by Geia. They changed direction on the next play to front rower Ricky Bourke who followed his other forwards lead and then a quick play the ball gave Bowman time on the left and then turned the ball back inside to Crowley who was feeding his insatiable appetite for meters gained and then busted tackles to score.  (Cut and Paste the conversion attempt by Bowman). In a blink the Saints were ahead by seven and the FUGS had to admit, that while they were drinking, Bowman was thinking.

Centrals were desperate now and for the next five minutes threw everything at the Uni defense, which responded to the challenge.  Then finally, interchange player, Chris Law kicked deep from dummy half and sprinted after it to ground the Centrals player within two meters of his goal line. The Saints then attacked with their defense and  Centals could only manage to clear it to the half way at the end of the set.  The tide had turned and Uni went in for the kill.

A kick in goal on the next set of six had Centrals dropping out from their posts and after some strong hit ups by his fellow forwards, Ronnie Geia strolled effortlessly under the posts to score.  Bowman made it ten in row over two matches and 37 – 18 was how it ended.

Marto felt compelled to praise the efforts of the bench as the younger brigade of Law, Mathiou and Bunnungun showed that they can match it with them in the top grade and also Evans seamless return into A Grade at late notice.  A Grade still sit third on the ladder, equal on points with second placed Brothers and now two wins clear of fourth spot.

Next Weekend:

• Away to Brothers

As the ‘Bear’ was still hibernating in the early afternoon and is arrival slightly delayed, the Club put one of the heavy hitters on the gate … treasurer Dan Duffy, who would have made a night club bouncer proud.  The bar had been moved again, to the deck, and all afternoon it was full, they drinkers were getting fuller, but remained loud but respectful. The canteen did a roaring trade to match those of the bar flies and Rod the ‘Chip Bitch’ kept frying and cooking as wife, Kim, had him chained to the BBQ.

All the time, footy was being played.

Under 19s:  Lost 10 – 22

No one likes to lose, but coach ‘Moses’ couldn’t help but feel that after an undefeated start to the season, now was a better time to do it than later in the season during the finals. It was the wake up call they needed, which was rather appropriate given their very slow start to the game as they played like teenagers who’s Mums had just woken them up to make them tidy their rooms.

It only took two minutes for Norths to make their first raid down the left hand side and if not for a great try saving tackle by Moses Nelliman-Adams, things could have been a whole lot worse.  The visitors continued to attack to the left and creating overlaps and after five minutes they scored after a spilt grubber only needed to be dived on for their first try.  Not long after, Norths made another strong break, this time down the middle of a lethargic ruck defense and from an ensuing penalty the Western Lions – Saints had to dig deep to hold them out.

After 14 minutes the opposition were in again and looked dominant in all arrears of the game.  Western Lions – Saints were still wiping sleep from their eyes and needed a spark. Ben Mathiou came on and his tackle reverberated around the ground and there was a lift in intensity, followed by a strong set culminating in a good kick deep into Norths territory.  More strong defense from Celestino Ross and Ryan Emmerson resulted in a scrum inside the Norths 35m and the coaches replacements were starting to have an effect as Kurt Worth’s probing runs from dummy half began putting Norths on the back foot.

For the remainder of the first half the boys started to peg back Norths dominance through strong runs from Ross and Mathiou and another replacement in Richard Martin provided further energy after the slow start. Sam Young was safe at the back and had frustrated more Norths raids. Half Time:  Western Lions –Saints Nil, Norths 10.

Norths started the second half as they did the first and there was no doubt they had come to play for the full game. But the Lions – Saints countered with a strong run by Thomas Utromu getting them close to the line and then followed up by a rampaging Ben Mathiou who scored the first try and we trailed 4 – 10.  They were warming to the task and Tristan Nelliman-Adams was getting busy and relieving the forwards and allowing Utromu and Paul Bunnungan to follow up with good ground gainers.  Sam Young was continuing to frustrate the Norths fifth tackle options with a safe pair of hands.   

When Kane Jonsson barged over with 18 minutes to go to level the scores at 10 all it appeared the tide may have been turning and he backed up off the kick off with a strong return.  However, Norths once again proved they were here to play and a ‘show n go’ by their five eight was too good for a tiring cover defense and they were back in front 10 – 16.   With seven minutes left on the clock the visitors put the result beyond doubt with a converted try. After a strong game by Sam Young, there was nothing he could do about a kick that fell in no mans land and then a cruel bounce saw the Norths five eighth on the spot to score his second.  The final score remained at 10 – 22.

Coach ‘Moses’ felt they had not played to their full potential and admitted that Norths were the better team on the day. Nevertheless, he was happy with the toil of his forward pack in warm conditions and was confident of getting back on track next week.  The good news that came out of it is that other results during the weekend see them remain on top of the ladder, albeit on equal points with Brothers.

Reggies:   Winners 42 – 10

Another week, another different line up in Reserve Grade.  The life of a reserve grade coach is aptly described in the mantra of the American marine corps …  Adapt and Overcome.

And that’s what the team did as well when Grant Ryan aggravated a groin injury and lasted only the first run of the match.  A great off load by Mick Ryan in the tenth minute got Uni into the opposition 30 meters and then a quick spread right resulted in some great vision by Zac Anderson, paying at five eighth, who threw a cut out pass to winger Neil Williamson, to score in the corner. Norths came right back when they dived over from dummy half following sustained possession inside the SAINTS red zone and the scores were level. 

Uni knuckled down to the task and applied the pressure resulting in the opposition giving up possession and penalties. Ryan remained heavily involved and then after another failed attempt by Norths to get out of their half, the Saints were on the attack again. One of the changes made by the coaches was to put Jarad Stevens into the second row, but still running in his customary position on the right fringe. One of those runs saw the HULK off load nicely to Anderson who in turn found Mick Burton in support, but unfortunately the next pass was deemed forward and a try had gone begging.  However, not long after, Joe Zarro  made a long run down the left and a quick play the ball saw Tom Watkins follow up with a run that ended 10 meters out from the Norths line. Then Sean Evans capitalised on another quick play the ball to barge over and with five minutes left in the half the Uni lead was extended to 10 – 6. 

They weren’t done with yet after a weaving run by Keiren Crowley was backed up by a 40 -20 attempt by Anderson. Norths prevented it, but not the Uni defense efforts to keep them cornered deep in their territory and it wasn’t long before the pressure resulted in a dropped ball by the visitors.  From the ensuing scrum Anderson scooted to the blind and with the ball in both hands the opposition defense held off and he strolled over in the corner and the SAINTS went in at half time leading 14 – 6.

Norths were first to score in the second half after a grubber was cleaned up by fullback, Dave McDonald. However, from the goal line drop the visitors got into the Uni 10 metres and when the dummy half took off, the Saints cover was too slow to respond and the lead had been whittled back to 14 – 10.  From the kick off though, Uni found touch 10 meters out and Crowley received the ball from the scrum and a feigned double pump had the defense guessing wrong and the ball was placed beautifully into the hole that Zarro was running into, and over for a try under the posts for a 20 -10 lead.  Norths returned the favour from the kick off with the ball finding touch and the scrum erupted into a physical ‘misunderstanding’ with the end result seeing an opposition player having to spend ten minutes on the sideline listening to time keeper ‘Herman’ chastise him for being a very naughty boy.  After two minutes he was preferring that the referee had sent him off completely. Uni took advantage of the extra man in the seventeenth minute when another foray into the visitors red zone resulted in the hard working Bevan Chambers getting a well deserved try to reward his consistently strong efforts, in both attack and defense. Anderson converted and the score was  26 – 10. 

Evans was starting to take advantage of slow moving outside left defense by the opposition and began running across field to the right to try and create overlaps which duly eventuated. Of course, everyone knows who lives on the right side of the Saints attack  … it’s green and it’s mean … it’s the HULK!  He was seemingly running at will now and the tiring Norths defense was struggling. The Saints were well in control.

The Saints were regularly completing their sets and another strong kick by Crowley saw Norths only get to their 30 meter line on the fifth tackle and desperately tried to chip, only to find Chambers cleaning up and putting Uni back on the attack.  Another HULKing run and quick play the ball gave us a repeat of the Crowley – Zarro show, with a twist. This time a great cut out ball from Crowley saw Zarro collect his second try and the Hackett conversion had the score at 32 -10.  Norths kicked off and Uni were straight back up the other end where a cross field chip on the fifth was split by the visitors and Evans barged over for his second try and Hackett’s second conversion was successful.

Watkins made another great kick return from the restart and you could tell that the Saints were not fully satisfied. A penalty kick found touch eight metres out from the visitors line and Adam Hume nonchalantly tapped the ball and then took off and used his ‘massive’ red frame to storm over and finish off proceedings.  42 – 10.

‘Doigy’ and ‘Macca’ were very happy with the completion rate which helped build plenty of pressure and the new combinations worked a treat. They heaped praise on Bevan Chambers’ consistent work rate and also the performances of Evans, Zarro and Stevens.  The Reggies sit third on the ladder and equal on points with second placed Brothers and only a point behind next weeks opposition and ladder leaders, Centrals.

A Grade:   Winners 64 – 18

Norths had been very competitive in their matches to date in the 2013 season and coach ‘Marto’ was expecting a tough game. He had paid particular attention to improving ball security at training, particularly after last week’s poor handling, and boy you could tell right from the outset. As Uni kicked off, the FUGS welcomed back 2012 grand final hero Mitch Kaminski, who they knew would bring a more hardened resolve to the team.

Things didn’t start so well though, with Norths scoring first after five minutes and the resulting conversion saw them leading  0 – 6. But, Uni hit back three minutes later when a strong run from Jordan Tawhai drew in four defenders before a quick play the ball allowed halves, PJ Hart and Nathaniel Bowman, to throw two long passes to stretch the opposition defense. Simeon Fuller was on the end of them to draw the winger and then put Hayden Crowley in the corner. The FUGS were also glad to see Bowman back in the side and he duly slotted the conversion over from the sideline.  6 all.

IN the fifteenth minute after a penalty to Uni, the forwards took a couple of settlers to the middle before going exploring to the left again where Josiah Geia was carefull to prop on his run to allow Crowley to retreat slightly and receive the ball in an onside position and then off load the ball back inside to Fuller to score. Bowman once again went over the black dot from out wide. Shaq Congoo defused a grubber kick at the other end of the field before the Saints launched another raid for Congoo to run 40 meters. PJ ran across field deep in Norths territory and looked to pass before going himself and scoring the Saints third try adjacent to the posts.  18 – 6 and things were looking ominous as the Saints slick back line was enjoying the room being created by their forwards.

With five minutes left in the half a raking kick from Chris Law from dummy half put Norths under pressure with his follow up tackle. The rest of the forwards were quickly there to muscle up and Norths could only manage their 30 meters before having to clear the ball with a kick. At the end of another couple of sets which were both completed by Uni, Bowman saw an opportunity and chipped across field to Crowley, who leaped high and patted the ball down to PJ who made 15 meters before off loading to a supporting Jake McManus. McManus saw the converging cover defense and also his unmarked winger and a looping long pass found its mark and Shaq Congoo was in the right corner. No need to bring it round under the posts when Bowman has his GPS activated and another one sailed between the sticks from wide out with only 2 minutes left on the clock.

Marto was very happy with a half time score of 24 -6, but the players weren’t. From the kick off Congoo was at it again retrieving the ball from outside his dead ball line like a cricket out fielder taking a boundary catch.  Then three plays later it was PJ’s turn to chip for Crowley who said “thank you very much, I believe this is yours” and passed back to PJ for a 50 meter run to the line. Yes, you guessed it, Conversion Successful.  Half Time: 30 – 6.

What a turn up from last week. Completed sets. Slick handling. Accurate kicking. Yummy!  And all those things continued in the second half. From the kick off, Chris Larkham carted the ball up strong and the Saints made sure they got to their kick again and again. Then when the visitors kicked out on the full, a scrum forty meters out allowed the Saints to spread to the right where fullback, Daniel Pickering, chimed in beautifully to create the overlap and allow Algon Congoo to cross over in the corner.  Pickering was signaling his intentions for what was to become a big second half for him.  Oh, and by the way, did I mention that Bowman’s sideline conversion was successful, AGAIN? Was there any need. 36 – 6.

This is where things went a bit hairy for a bit, but only for the purpose of allowing the coach to give the inevitable quote at the end of the game, that there were still areas they needed to work on. For a brief ten minute period, last week’s team returned, allowing Norths to cross over for two quick tries, each from poor goal line defense.  36 – 18.

Uni didn’t go into their shell though and one of Pickering’s many strong runs of the second half got them deep into North’s red zone where a great interchange from the Tawhai twins, Jordan and Tyson, eventually got the ball right to Congoo (the Algon variety) and he was in for his second try in the corner.  What, he missed the kick? You’re kidding?

Straight from the kick off Jordan Tawhai made a huge 50 meter run and once again his brother Tyson was on his left shoulder. No they’re not Siamese twins, just very close. But, a small knock on was detected by the referee and they had to be content with where it finished. Back up the other end, Pickering was clearing up a goal line grubber which had the Saints kicking from under their posts, but the ensuing defense caused another Norths error and Uni were back on the attack from the scrum.  A great cut out ball from Bowman had Algon Congoo surging down field.  The ball was quickly thrown left before coming just as quickly back to the left from PJ to Bowman to Pickering and he broke away from one defender before scoring, you guessed it, in the corner. The touch judges’ flags then returned to their correct position, raised high, as Bowman was back on line.  46 – 18.  They may as well have stayed where they were, because Uni came right back from the kick off and Law scored and Bowman converted and HAPPY 50^th. 52 – 18.

From the kick off Uni completed another of their many sets and the down field kick was caught by the breeze and the opposition winger spilt it 10 meters from his line. Pickering received the ball from the scrum and went left then right, or, wherever he wanted to really and then found another strong second half performer in Algon Congoo who passed to his brother Shaq, only for the ball to be called back for a forward pass. At the end of the next set, the visitors chipped, only to find Pickering on the fly and back to the opposition 40 meters. Four tackles later, Law picked up the ball from broken play and held it up beautifully for Kaminski to score under the posts. Welcome back Mitch. Under the posts? That’s way too easy. 58 – 18.

The game was well and truly over as Uni returned the ball to the half way in three tackles and then went right to have Algon into space again and almost to the line before flicking the ball back to Tyson Tawhai in support and his try was also a reward for a big game.  Bowman made it 10 from 11 for the afternoon and the whistle blew.  64 – 18.

Marto was Happy. So were the players. So were the FUGS.  A Grade sit third on the ladder, equal on points with second placed Brothers and one win clear of next weeks opponents.

Next Week:

• Saturday 4th May             Home game V’s Centrals – Under 19s Kick off from 3:00pm

The committee got into swing early with the first game scheduled for 2pm.  They ramped up security by putting a ‘Bear’ on the gate, as Greg Allen showcased his skills by collecting money, chatting with FUGS and listening to the Randwick races all at the same time. The Yardley family started purring into action as Kim Yardley had the canteen ready to roll while husband Rod was stoking up the new FUGS Chip Fryer. Craig started his afternoon of perpetual motion to fulfill his myriad of tasks, including keeping son Rhys focused on his ball boy duties. And of course, el Presidente, Alan was doing what he does best  … whatever Mary-anne asked him to do. 2pm approached and as usual, everything was in readiness for the afternoon of footy.

It was great to see an out of town FUG visiting as the club welcomed Laurie and Ruth Oar from ‘ the coast’ as they took up a seat in the stands to watch son, Brent, have a run in the reserve grade game. The Stand was only temporary though as they soon made their way to the bar to see if they could replicate their 2011 50^th Anniversary Reunion feats by drinking it dry.

And then there was the footy …

Under 19s:  Winners 52 – 4

The undefeated Under 19s intentions were clear from the outset … remain undefeated. That goal was pretty much assured after a dominant first half with half back, Mitchell Gray taking the line on strongly and feeding his back line well on the back of strong gains by his bigger forward pack.  They ran in six tries and led 34 – 4 at the break, with coach ‘Moses Nelliman’ pleased with the strong start, but reminding them not to become complacent as they had done in previous second halves. Captain, Thomas Utromu, was one of the big forwards leading the way and it was obvious that the A Grade trial game time he had received earlier in the year was bearing fruit and his half time contribution was to urge his team mates to remain disciplined and not give the Burdekin easy field position from silly penalties.

The Burdekin started the second half with more stout defense and an ugly brawl further strengthened their resolve. A player from each team was told to rest for 10 minutes and unfortunately one of the Saints may have sinned and may have to do a week or two penance.

The Western Lions – Saints stuck to their task though and finally settled back into their rhythm and a long pass from dummy half by Kurt Worth saw him put his winger in the corner to further help the team regain focus. With five minutes to go Tristan Nelliman-Adams found space down the right wing for a long run from which Sam Young received the ball on the next tackle and made his way forward and across the field to draw and pass and put Jordan Ross in close to the posts. Two minutes later the other Nelliman-Adams sibling, Moses, got into the act with another 40 meter weaving run down field. The ball was immediately sent wide to the left and Richard Martin was in to score and bring the final score to 52 – 4.

Coach ‘Moses’, was quietly satisfied with the ‘four from four’ start to the season, but not underestimating the improvement likely from the other teams as the season progresses. Most pleasing for him was the teams’ defensive focus in keeping the opposition scoreless in the second half. He was looking forward to next week’s challenge against Norths who had recruited strongly during the off season.

Reggies:   Winners 32 – 18

The Reserve grade team, on paper, boasted a very strong line up including 2012 A Grade grand final heroes, Grant Ryan and Sean Evans, and Sean Evans was the first to make his mark when his long touch finder from a penalty saw the tap being taken from less than ten meters from the Burdekin line. Giant front rower Graeme Bonato took the first hit up and caught the blind side Burdekin defense asleep and barged over for the teams’ first try.  He was straight back into the action from the kick off with a great return hit up and then a couple of tackles later, Sean Evans playing at five eight, threw a perfectly timed pass to Grant Ryan who ran 25 meters before drawing the full back and putting Jarad ‘HULK’ Stevens over under the posts.  Saints led 10 Nil. Burdekin were not to be outdone though and pegged one back very quickly and then when a ‘Monster’ Mather offload went wrong, Burdekin scored from the ensuing scrum to level the scores at 10 all.

The experience of Ryan and Evans was clearly evident and their combination on the right was yielding good ground through Evans’ clever short passes to compliment Ryan’s strong line running, and when deep in the Burdekin red zone, they orchestrated a clever play which eventually saw Ryan turn the ball back inside to full back Dave McDonald who easily beat the last defender and Uni were back in front 16-10.  Meanwhile dummy half Zac Anderson was probing and taking every opportunity to catch lazy defenders out and his kicking game was also accurate as his well positioned cross field chip to winger, Neil Williamson, ensured Uni went into the break leading 20-12 after he crossed in the shadows of half time.  The Reggies looked in control.

In the second half ‘Monster’ Mather decided to prove that front rowers can also possess a kicking game when he tried to chip and chase on the last tackle, although, the FUGS were not too sure if it was a chip or perhaps a downfield kick gone sadly wrong.  He admitted after the game, that it needed more work. There was no change to the score until twelve minutes into the second half when the HULK found himself in the open and ran over 60 meters to score, while all the time, teasing the chasing Burdekin defense. That was further than he normally went on his holidays and ironically he needed a vacation after it, as he was quickly subbed to the bench appearing to suffer from asthma or some other respiratory ailment.  26-10.

Burdekin again fought back and brought it back to 26-18 until Zac Anderson once again seized on an opportunity and instead of collecting the ball at dummy half, quickly grubbered it into the Burdekin in goal and dived on it to score under the posts. He converted his own try and the game finished at the score of 32-18.

Graeme Bonato’s strong hit ups and a high work rate from lock, Bevan Chambers were only slightly overshadowed by the Evans-Ryan combination and Zac Anderson’s astute kicking game.  Coach ‘Doigy’ and his assistant Steve ‘Macca’ Macdonald were happy with the combinations but aware that they were likely to change throughout the year though injury and A Grade promotions.  Nevertheless, their position on the ladder was much better than this time last year and they looked forward to consolidating that net week against Norths, who copped a fair walloping from Herbert River.

A Grade:   Winners 28-20

There’s no point in trying to make strawberry jam out of pig shit. This was an ordinary game riddled with errors from both teams and the only consolation a coach can take from it, is a win. Coach ‘Marto’ was pleased with that, but under no illusions that a lot of work was still yet to be done in order to legitimately challenge again for the title in 2013.

After swapping errors for the first 14 minutes, Uni finally strung some slick passes together which saw full back, Daniel Pickering, into space down the right and scoring out wide.  Up the other end of the field, the Saints were struggling to defuse the Burdekin bombs with the second of three spilt to allow the Burdekin winger to open their account on the right side. Saints countered again after a run and kick by Jake McManus was followed up by a strong Ricky Bourke run and Uni repeated their first try play down the right with this time, Pickering off loading to Shaq Congoo to score. Not long after the Burdekin winger was in for his second after a third bomb was left for the Burdekin attack to recover and off load and the visitors lead 8-10 at the break. Ruck infringements were building pressure by giving the opposition cheap field position.

Things didn’t start all that well in the second half with Uni getting caught marginally off side on the kick off and well off side with their coach. Nevertheless, they defended the set strongly and then three minutes into the half, Ricky Bourke made a break followed by a long 35 meter run, before his front rower side step didn’t quite go as planned and he was brought down 20 meters out from the Burdekin line. Off the next play, Blake Leary surged into the defense, breaking the line and palming off more defenders to score, then convert his own try.  However,  Burdekin hit straight back after another error handed over cheap possession and the ensuing opposition try saw the scores level at 14 all. The Burdekin were doing most of their visiting down the left side and Uni’s right side defense struggled for most of the second half as they continued to find space through off loads and overlaps.

After 13 minutes of the second half the Saints got to one of their rare sixth tackle kicks and it immediately reaped dividends as it was dropped by the Burdekin winger. From the scrum Daniel Pickering was to o elusive for the static defense and weaved across field before straightening and fending one player to score his second try for the night. Five minutes later Uni were seeing the benefit of better ball security and again a slick back line movement to the right saw Algon Congoo juggle the ball before re-gathering just before it hit the ground over the try line.  Uni had scored five tries to three, but only lead 22-14 and were clearly missing the sharp shooting of Nathaniel Bowman. 

It was only five minutes later when Uni were in again to extend the lead to 28-14.  Two accurate long passes from PJ Hart and Dillon McGregor had the ball shifted quickly to the right before a catch and pass short ball from Pickering had Algon Congoo in for his second and finally some success with the boot as Pickering stood up to record the extras. Another leak on the right side defense gave Burdekin  a slight glimmer of hope at 28-20 with seven minutes to go, but Uni’s defense held firm, including three consecutive sets on their line in the last four minutes to grind out an ugly, but extremely important win.

Coming Weeks:

• Sunday 28th April            Home game V’s Norths – Kick off from 12:30pm
• Saturday 4th May             Home game V’s Centrals – Kick off from 3:00pm

MEMBERSHIPS 

2013 Memberships are progressing steadily, but still well short of what we need in order to achieve all our 2013 goals.  However, we have still been active and already in 2013 we have donated to the CLUB, either in cash or ‘in kind’, a total of $4,000.  You should all be really proud of the assistance being provided to the Club, and additionally we have already approved further assistance as follows:

• $250 in Player Sponsorship which will be paid during the month of April
• $625 for a Chip Fryer to assist with the Home Games canteen operation.  Also to be paid during April.
• The FUGS Home Game has been scheduled for the weekend of July 13-14.  This is the CLUB Home Game that the FUGS will run on behalf of the committee to give them a break during the year.

Our weekly raffles provide a regular source of income and Memberships are vital for ongoing sustainability of budgeted assistance to the Mighty Saints.  (For more information on Memberships just click here)

CAIRNS ROAD TRIP

Speaking of Memberships, thanks to all the FNQ FUGS who joined up when the Townsville contingent met them in Cairns at Dunwoody’s Tavern on the 23^rd March for some beers, betting and bull$#&t.  Of course, the Townsville FUGS picked up some stragglers along the way, including: ‘Dinosaur’ Dave Anderson and ‘Uncle’ Bob Edwards. Many new rules were established over the weekend, the most important of which were: 

RULE 16:  ‘Never try and argue with Dave Anderson.’

RULE 17:  ‘Never interrupt Bob Edwards while he’s having an “Espresso”’

(Check out the photos in the Photo Libraries, or, just click here)

THE MIGHTY SAINTS

One of the reasons we’ve gone AWOL since March, is because not much has happened. There were no TDRL games during Easter and then the Club had a Bye in the first weekend of April.  So, to date:

• A Grade:          Won 1, Lost 1, 1 x Bye  (Currently 3^rd on the ladder and equal on points with 2^nd placed Centrals and 4^th placed Norths)
• Reggies:          Drew 1, Won 1, 1 x Bye (Currently 2^nd on the ladder and equal on points with 1^st placed Brothers)
• Under 19s:       Won 2, 1 x Bye  (Currently 2^nd on the ladder and equal on points with 1^st placed ChartersTowers)

This weekend the Club travels to ChartersTowers and then that’s followed by three home games in a row as follows:

• Saturday 20th April          Home game V’s Burdekin – Kick off from 3:00pm
• Sunday 28th April            Home V’s Norths – Kick off from 12:30pm
• Saturday 4th May             Home game V’s Centrals – Kick off from 3:00pm

NRL Tipping

A record 37 entries in our NRL FUGS League Tipping this year.  That beats our last year’s record of 34, which was our first year.  At that rate we’ll have 50 tipsters by 2017.

And, after 5 rounds we have an outright leader  … MUZZA, who researches his tips during his RDOs .. and he has quite a few.  He’s closely followed by 2013 newbies, Tyack St Mudcrabs and Aydn O’Neill (A lot of thought went into Aydn’s Alias … no one will ever know it’s him).  Last years winner, Shazza, is handily placed in 10^th and only 2 points from the lead  .. she’s crouched and ready to pounce. Cliché rounds out the top half of the ladder in 18^th spot and advises, “you don’t win an NRL tipping competition in April”  Ole Cliché!  Down at number 30 is Mitch, who tips based on the type of boutique beer he’s drinking at the time  e.g. if he pulls a Belgian DUVEL beer out of the fridge, he’ll back against the Storm, because you gotta be crazy to drink that stuff.  And languishing at the bottom in 37^th place is Blocko. He thought NRL stood for “Nother Round Lads?”

So, there you go. You’re all up to date now and you can expect us to annoy you on a more regular basis over the coming months.

Just a reminder that 2013 SAINT memberships are only $60 and includes a stylish FUGS Pen.  The committee continuously monitors how funds raised are distributed and always bearing in mind the objectives in our Model Rules Model rules of FUGs – Former Uni Greats Inc.

FUGS also contibutes to the CLUB regularly in the way of player retention assistance and also individual player sponsorships.  We also encourage our members to participate in the Partnership Opportunuities that are available with the Mighty SAINTS football club.  Attached are those opportunities fir your consideration:      Partnership Options One Page

Great News though, as at the recent FUGS committee meeting we have authorised prizemoney for the FUGS League competition, as follows:

$150 for the winner.  $50 for second.  $50 for last. 

So, you’ll have something to play for, right up to the end of the competition, even if you’re not travelling very well.  It’s not easy to pick all the winners, and similarly, it’s not easy to pick all the losers. So, towards the end of the tipping season, the ‘cellar dwellers’ will still need to think hard about their selections.

You can still join, despite Round 1 already being completed. Just read up on the Home Page for details, or, send us an e-mail.

Prizemoney for a competition that required no entry fee.  Only at the FUGS.

President Alan Yardley, said he was delighted to announce the Townsville RSL Club as the SAINT’s Jersey and Major sponsor for 2013. “We’re proud to be associated with such a wonderful organisation as the RSL and their generous sponsorship is a fantastic contribution towards our 2013 premiership campaign.”

The sponsorship has been warmly endorsed by the FUGS committee and we would encourage all Townsville FUGS and those visiting from out of town, to take the opportunity to become members of the Townsville RSL Club.

When completing your membership application, beside your name simply write, (FUGS).  This will ensure the RSL Club recognises the benefits received from their sponsorship of the UNI SAINTS.

Up the MIGHTY SAINTS, and to the RSL Club, we salute you.

New Membership Year:  Commences 1^st March, and THANK YOU to the seventeen SAINTS that have already renewed their membership for 2013.  Many have taken advantage of the varied methods of payment on offer, including: just giving CASH to one of the FUGS committee (thanks to our Chief Recruitment Officer, Herman, who has been very active … only in getting new memberships, not in any real physical activity), Direct Deposit to our account, and regular Paypal users have continued via that method.  Remember, only $60 for SAINT memberships and includes a stylish FUGS PEN.  Check out the MEMBERSHIPS and MERCHANDISE tabs on the home page.

Uni SAINTS Trial Match:  Don’t forget the Club’s trial match on Saturday 2^nd March at Joe Baker Field.  They will be hosting an Army team in a curtain raiser to the main game against the visiting 2012 PNG Premiers. That should be a cracker of a match and worthy of rivaling the World Club Challenge. Those blokes over in England probably wont even raise a sweat, but the TDRL and PNG Premiers will be bashing each other in 30 degree heat and 75% humidity. And, spare a thought for the FUGS at the bar struggling to keep their beers cold.

FUGS – NRL Tipping Competition:  The NRL season kicks off on Thursday 7^th March, so you need to be registered prior to then.  It’s easy. Just click on the NRL TIPPING at the right of the Home Page and it will take you straight to the NRL Tipping registration page.  Those already registered on the official NRL tipping site, only need to login and join the FUGS League – Code: 320229.  We currently have 19 tipsters in the FUGS league, including last year’s runaway winner, Shazza. There’s already some ‘smack’ being thrown around on the FUGS tipping chat room about this year’s tipping. Check it out and join in the fun. It’s FREE!

FUGS Rugby League 7s Carnival:  The 7s carnival, on Saturday 9^th March, is only open to JCU students and a dedicated TAB has been set up just to the left of the HOME tab at the top of the website. More information will be posted there as it comes to hand.  If you know any JCU students who are interested in nominating a team, all the info is here on the site. ‘7s’ means seven players per team on the field … not 7 out 10 in looks  or  7 IQ  or  7 year olds.

TDRL Season Launch:  The TDRL season kicks off on Friday 15^th March with a Grand Final replay between the mighty UNI SAINTS and Brothers.  It will be held at Jack Manski Oval (Brothers).  They also have a fence there at the bar, so, we’re hoping Webby will be there for a repeat of his snake pit heroics from last year’s final.

FUGS Road Trip:  Saturday 23^rd March, we’re on our way to Cairns to visit our FNQ FUGS. Who doesn’t like a Road Trip. Beers on the Bus on the way up, and, on the way back  …  bad air blowing out your bum.  We’ll be hiring a bus, so, anyone interested in making the trip North to see the blokes up there just send an e-mail to saint@fugs-uni.com . We’ll be leaving early on Saturday morning, to pick up FUGS on the way and get to Cairns for Lunch, Lies and Lose on the nags.  And of course, get some new 2013 memberships.

After all that  …  we’re going to need a NAP!