Topic: Finals hopes dashed

Renee

  • Jason Croker
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Finals hopes dashed
« on: August 10, 2011, 07:21:41 PM »
Finals hopes dashed

The Yass Magpies first grade side’s hopes of featuring in the Canberra Raiders Cup final series are all but gone, with the Pies falling to last year’s premiers the Queanbeyan Roos at the weekend. The Golf Club Magpies, who have been dealt a cruel injury toll in recent weeks, were slow out of the blocks, with the home side racing to a 28-nil lead. However, the visitors mounted an inspired comeback and, when captain Chris Rawlinson crossed with eight minutes to play, the Pies were within 12 points of the defending premiers. Nevertheless, it was not to be, with the Roos closing out a 28-16 victory and all but ending the Magpies’ finals hopes. To the Pies credit they put on a gutsy display until the final whistle and were forced to finish the match with only two available players on the interchange bench. The Yass side will now look to finish its 2011 campaign on a high, with two rounds remaining. The locals have been the most improved side in this year’s Canberra Raiders Cup and have been a threat for the majority of the season, unfortunately though, they will be left to rue a number of close losses, and a cruel injury toll in recent weeks. But the future looks bright for Mark Bell’s men, and if this young squad can stick together for 2012 and beyond the Magpies will be able to build on their successes in 2011 and look to once again be the benchmark in the Canberra Raiders Cup. The flying V will now turn their concentration to tomorrow’s clash with the West Belconnen Warriors at Walker Park. This will be the clubs last home game for the year, and after the locals got the points in the previous encounter with the Warriors, it promises to be a cracker. The reserve grade side was given a wakeup call heading into the finals, with the Pies going down 38-4. The visitors started the match strongly but, after having a number of tries disallowed due to line-ball calls, the Pies lost their way and failed to stay in the contest for the duration. Coach Vitlers men will take the positives out of the defeat and will be eyeing second spot once again on the ladder with a victory over the Warriors. Club officials encourage all supporters to make it to Walker Park tomorrow to see the Magpies the final time at home in 2011.

 The action will kick off at 11.30am, with the third placed under 18s taking on the top of the table Roos, while the Greypies will also feature when they tackle the Valley Dragons, before both reserves and first grade do battle with the Warriors. The Magpies will host their annual sponsor’s day tomorrow and all sponsors and their families will be thanked for their contribution throughout the season. Refreshments will be supplied by the club and officials are encouraging all sponsors to attend what is sure to be a fantastic day of local rugby league.

Source: yasstribune.com.au