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Chooks Too Strong for the Students
[ May 29, 2007 ]
By John Preston

Despite an inauspicious start - Uni broke through pitiful Mudchooks defence to score in the first minute - the Mudchooks proved too slick an outfit for the Uni North Owls at the University ovals this Saturday.

The early shock served to put some spice into the Mudchooks' defencive effort and a polished and structured outfit went on to deal out a 27 to 7 win.

Mark Chapman was the first of the Mudchooks across the line and this happened in the 21st minute following some impressive support play from the Mudchooks.

Support play was a key feature of the Mudchooks game this weekend and this was borne out by two classic wingers' tries to Rod Clarke, a push over try to Andrew Turner, and a classic try to centre Brodie McLeod in the 35th minute of the first half.

Brodie's try followed a high ball from fly-half Peter Henderson, re-gathered by flying full back Luke Payten who offloaded to Brodie McLeod who scored to the left of the posts.

Ill-discipline has been an unwelcome feature of the Mudchooks game this season, but, in a pleasing turn around, the Uni North team had far more infringements penalized at the breakdown than the Muddies. Handling errors, particularly in the backs, were one of the few concerning points for the coaching staff, and I predict ball skills drills a-plenty on the training paddock this week.

3 points went to Brett Newman for an aggressive and decisive game in the second row, 2 to Mark Chapman for his customary strong performance in the centres and 1 to Andrew Turner. Dynamic flanker Matthew Burton picked up Chick's Pick.

Many thanks go to the enthusiastic group of Mudchooks' supporters and sponsors who turned up to watch the game. Notable amongst the supporters was the newest Mudchook - Cooper John McDonald - the new-born son of Dancing Dave McDonald, and featuring in the sponsors was Paul and Michaela Fogarty from PM & MM Fogarty Building Services.

This weekend sees Bungendore take on Bombala Blue Tongues at the Coop of Pain in Bungendore. Come up and support the boys in what should prove a good tussle with a traditional rival.