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Mudchooks Into Grand Final
[ Saturday, 21 August 2010 ]

The Bungendore Mudchooks enjoyed a convincing win over reigning premiers Boorowa in Saturday's major semi-final and now get to host a home ground grand final.

For the first 14 minutes the game was a tight and uncompromising arm-wrestle with both teams attacking their opponent's line and each team holding the other out until Boorowa finally crossed for a try which they converted. But, the Mudchooks players took this initial setback in their stride and reorganised themselves and counter attacked. A quick line out throw from Gerard Kearns allowed the Mudchooks to make two swift attacking moves which lead to a try by Brett Watson. Aaron Williams converted and soon after almost scored a try himself with a great kick and chase that only desperate defence by Boorowa stopped just inches from the line. However, just two minutes later, Rodney Clarke streaked over the line to score out wide. Boorowa was awarded a penalty from the restart of play and kicked a penalty goal with two minutes left in the first half. Then the Mudchooks forwards showed why they are the best pack in the competition in an awesome display of controlled discipline with a series of pick and drives and rolling mauls that took them 48 metres down field and ended in a try to John Turner. With the successful conversion the Mudchooks ended the first half leading 19 -10.

The second half began much like the first half with neither team dominating the other until Boorowa again broke the stalemate with a try 15 minutes into the half. They failed to convert the try and the Mudchooks fought back but failed to kick both a penalty and a field goal in quick succession. Finally, after some sustained Mudchooks attack, Jeremy Taylor took the final pass from a good backline move and streaked down the sideline, skilfully staying inside the field of play despite the efforts of the covering defence and crossed for a great try which Aaron Williams converted. Unfortunately, soon after the Boorowa hooker had to leave the field injured. As Boorowa had no replacement hooker, the rest of the game was played with uncontested scrums, which was a disadvantage to the Mudchooks whose scrum had been dominating and demoralising the Boorowa pack.

Despite this handicap, the Mudchooks continued to control the game and with four minutes to go until full time, Aaron Williams scored a try after another blistering race down the sideline. The conversion was unsuccessful leaving the final score 31 -15 to Bungendore.

Tymlock 3 points went to John Turner in recognition of his impressive work rate in attack and defence. Bungendore Rural Services 2 points was shared by Eddie Mitford-Burgess and Pete Sturgiss. Royal Hotel one point was shared by Adam Stephens and Jason Brodrick. Jason Brodrick earned the Botham Fencing coach's award and John Turner was awarded the Chick's Pick.

The Mudchooks will play in their fifth grand final at Bungendore on Saturday 4th September at 2:30pm against either Boorowa or RMC. A licensed bar and canteen will be available for supporters.