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Mudchooks Hold The Palerang Shield
[ Saturday, 27 March 2010 ]

On a well grassed green football field at Captains Flat the Bungendore Mudchooks played the Braidwood Redbacks for the prestigious Palerang Shield. The shield is awarded to the winner of the annual Mudchooks V Redbacks game each year. The shield was inaugurated by Palerang Council for the game in 2006 and was currently held by the Mudchooks. This was the second successive year that the game was played on the neutral ground at Captains Flat.

The game was played with great spirit and the traditional passion that has always been a feature of these games. Both teams were determined to run the ball and play attractive rugby. The Redbacks were supported by an enthusiastic group of supporters.

However, the Mudchooks' superior fitness and teamwork quickly become apparent as they made many charges through the Redback's ranks. Eddy Zarb, ably supported by his captain "Woody' Fraser, soon gave the Braidwood team something to think about. Even so the Redbacks battled on gamely

The Mudchooks won the game 31 to 8 with the Redbacks' scoring their first try in two years following a impressive period of pick and drive.

For the Mudchooks Club Captain Luke Payton lead the backline on many raids. He was well supported by fly half Brett Watson. In the forwards, "Boggo" Stevens and Andrew Turner ran well and tackled fiercely.

For the Redbacks John Radburn was impressive and he was ably supported by Trent Moran and Tim Moffit. "Blacky" played his usual plucky game.

The shield was presented to the Captain of the Mudchooks "Woody" Fraser by Palerang Mayor Walter Raynolds.

A big vote of gratitude must go to the residents of Captains Flat who prepared the ground and turned up in large numbers to cheer on both teams.

The Mudchooks also won the boat race.