Bleak Day For Chooks In Grand Final Reply
[ Saturday, 17 May 2008 ]

For Bungendore Rugby, last weekend was the most important game to date in 2008. A replay of last year's grand final against the Taralga Tigers was the chance to overcome previous regrets and categorically take control of this year's competition. Alas, a bleak autumn day put a damper on the Mudchook aspirations.at least for the moment.

The match was always going to be a hard fought battle, dominated by massive forward packs on both sides, and the slippery conditions made the encounter even more demanding. Taralga was the first to capitalise on the errors brought on by wet weather, going over for a try under the posts, which was easily converted for an early seven point lead.

Shortly after, another unfortunate error by the home side was pounced on by the Tigers and another converted try was soon to follow.

Down 14-0 at half time, the Chooks needed to lift in order to win this match. Thankfully, the forward pack finally fired on all four cylinders. Steadfast forwards John Turner and Jason Byron took the proverbial bull by the horns in an attempt to gain control of the match. Leading by example, the two earned themselves three and two Player Points respectively for their efforts.

The forward pack gained enough momentum to open up the back line play. A briefly disorganised opposition allowed Dan Beer to cross for yet another try for the season. Although converted, the Mudchooks were unable to cross the line again, but valiantly maintain the score-line of 14-7 until full-time.

It may have been a loss, but perhaps a valuable lesson for the remainder of the season.

This coming Saturday, the Chooks travel to Harden to take on the newest team to the Monaro 2nd Division competition. Harden have been slow off the mark not yet winning a match in 2008, although given the lessons learnt this week, the Chooks would