While the Bushrangers were regarded as favourites to take the match, the Magpies fielded a strong and experienced line up for the day. The match started well for the visitors when they posted an early try thanks to the endeavours of Andrew Swaffield.

The opposition hit straight back to take the lead 6-4. In fact, the Bushrangers continued to post points and by the 26 minute mark earned a convincing

18-4 lead.

To Yass’ credit they hit back right on half time to keep themselves in the game at 18-10, following a dummy half run over the try line by hooker Cody Timoti.

The second half was only six minutes old when the opposition extended the score to 24-10.

Yass front rower Brett Waters burst through the line soon after to send the flying centre Matt Waters over for a good team try. Tim Warden converted, reducing the margin to 24-16 with plenty of time remaining.

Three minutes later the Bushrangers were in again and pushed the score line out to 30-16.

Yass continued to fight hard and on many occasions had the opposition rattled with some strong defence. Yass’ good efforts were rewarded when Sean Greathead got over for a top four-pointer to reduce the margin eight points, 30-22.

At this stage it looked like the Magpies were going to claw their way back into the game and make a close contest. Their optimism was shattered when the Bushrangers posted another two quick tries to put the game out of the Magpies’ reach at 40-22.

In conclusion, Yass were competitive for most of the match, but once again fatigue set in at the back end of the game. A few lapses in defence allowed the Bushrangers at least three soft tries. If they had been stopped, then the result could well have been different. Better commitment to training would benefit the team no end. Boys, a win feels better than a loss. So, early nights before the match and a better roll up at training will go a long way to improvement on the paddock.

Best on the day in my opinion were Brett Waters, Anthony Broers and Cody Timoti. Next week the Magpies are off to Queanbeyan to take on arch rival the Blues. Come along and support the town’s Rugby League team, as the fast-improving Magpies search for their second win.

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Tuggeranong Bushrangers 40 defeated Yass Magpies 22 [A Swaffield, C Timoti, M Waters and S Greathead tries; T Warden 3 conversions].