Yass Magpies’ reserve grade suffered a 42-0 defeat at home last Saturday at the hands of the Tuggeranong Bushrangers.
The combination of any early send-off, in what was regarded a pretty ordinary decision by the man in the middle, and a couple of injuries placed the Magpies on the back foot all day.
Tuggeranong were too strong on the day, despite the boys’ best efforts and endless determination.
The Magpies started the game playing some smart footy. They kept the Bushrangers in their own half for the opening 10 minutes.
A couple of good breaks by Anthony Broers and Cody Timoti had the Magpies looking the most likely to score. However, Yass failed to finish off a number of moves and handed back possession.
The game turned when Tuggeranong worked a nice play inside the Magpies’ quarter, on the back of some strong forward play. The Bushrangers crossed in the corner and converted for a 6-0 lead.
Relentlessly, Tuggeranong pressed on in Magpies’ territory and extended the lead to 10-0. This flurry set them alight and it wasn’t long before the visitors posted two further tries to go to the break with a commanding 20-0 advantage.
The second half didn’t start well for the Magpies - Jade Roche was forced from the field with a game ending injury. To their credit, Yass dug deep and were able to apply some real pressure on the opposition, holding them out until the 17 minute mark. The Bushrangers finally broke Yass’ defence, extending their lead to 26 nil.
Playing with 12 men and no able bodied reserves, the home side failed to compete in the final 20. Tuggeranong ran in three late tries to add to the Magpies’ disappointment.
There were some good efforts, particularly from captain Ant Broers, but Yass were never able to recover from the devastating run injuries.
The fact that the opposition had a full team with seven reserves made it an up-hill battle from the start. All the under 18s who filled in stood tall. A big thank you for your efforts.
Best on the day were captain Anthony Broers, Ben Reardon, Cody Timito (until injured) and Bruce Barrie.
Next Saturday the Magpies are at home again to take on arch rivals Queanbeyan Blues. Get to Walker Park to support the Black and White. Under 18s start at 1.30pm and seniors at 3.00pm.