CENTRAL COAST RUGBY UNION RESULTS
SATURDAY, 28th MAY, 2016
ROUND 8
 
PREMIER 1 (bonus points in brackets)
 
Terrigal                        31
Ethan McInnes, Nathan Simpson, Dan Sargeant tries;
Aaron Tait 2 conversions, 4 penalty goals
 
defeated
Ourimbah                    20                   
Jarrod Grange, Sam Kearney tries;
Jarrod Grange 2 conversions, 2 penalty goals
 
 
Kariong                       36 (1)
Jake Holwill 3, Cory Holwill, Stanley Mila tries;
Scott Hanley 4 conversions, 1 penalty goal
 
defeated
Avoca Beach                 7
Blake Jacob try;
Nathan Brown 1 conversion
 
 
Warnervale                  39 (1)
Netane Tonga 2, Connor Wanstall, Brenton Acreman, Jack Hogan, Folau Faupulu, Sione Branxton tries;
Sione Ala 2 conversions
 
defeated
The Lakes                    35 (2)
Brendan Quigg 2, Adam Kea, Glen Stone, Dame Kea tries;
Bill Moroney 2 conversions, 2 penalty goals
 
 
Woy Woy                    51 (1)
Chris Paseka 2, Alifeleti Atiola 2, Sione Toki 2, Fokolulu Taumalolo, Polikapili Tuitupou, Lapana Vitale tries;
Sione Toki 1 conversion;
Alex Moore 2 conversions
 
defeated
Hornsby                        7                   
Stefan Von Zelewski try;
Sam White 1 conversion
 
POINTS TABLE
Terrigal                        33
Woy Woy                    24
Kariong                       24
Avoca Beach               22
Ourimbah                    21
Gosford                       15
The Lakes                      8
Warnervale                    6
Hornsby                        5
 
 
PREMIER 2 (bonus points in brackets)
Ourimbah                    22        Terrigal            17 (1)
Avoca Beach               20        Kariong           17 (1)    
Warnervale                  25        The Lakes        10
Woy Woy                    31 (1)   Hornsby          14                                  
           
                                   
PRESIDENTS CUP (bonus points in brackets)
Avoca Beach               28 (1)   Kariong             5         
The Lakes                    20 (1)   Warnervale        0
Woy Woy                    31 (1)   Hornsby            5
Gosford                       52 (1)   The Entrance   14                                 
 
 
COLTS (bonus points in brackets)
Ourimbah                    17        Terrigal              7
Avoca Beach               22        Warnervale      12       
Gosford                       69 (1)   Woy Woy          0                   
 
 
REPORT :
The Central Coast Rugby Union competition certainly opened up further this weekend after the matches in Round 8. The results have thrown open the Premier 1 competition and it is developing into one of the closest and most interesting Premiership title races in many years. No team in the competition can be taken for granted at this stage and most teams still have a chance of reaching the Top Four.
 
Terrigal did however maintain their undefeated record with a hard fought win over Ourimbah at The Haven Oval, running out victors by 31 points to 20. The match was an even battle for most of the 80 minutes but it was the home side who were always that little bit more in control. There was nothing in the first half with Terrigal only going to the halftime break leading by 15 points to 10. At that stage both teams knew they could win the clash. In fact both halves of the match proved very similar with Terrigal able to control proceedings on the paddock so also on the scoreboard by a very close margin. Terrigal had several very good players in the match. Flanker Sam Kenny continued to show great form and is certainly one of his team’s key players this year, and one of the in form players in this year’s competition. He was everywhere both in attack and defence. He was very well supported by fellow loose forward Ryan Metcalfe and hooker Ethan McInnes. McInnes, who is new to the club this year, has been outstanding and has certainly made his mark at the club this year. Prop Nathan Simpson also played very well and had one of his best games of the season. Ourimbah were always in the match but just could not bridge the gap on the scoreboard. Flanker Jarrod Grange had a great game for Ourimbah, and besides scoring a try, he was most effective in attack and defence. Other to play for the visitors were Sam Kearney and Matt King, while Steve Pike at lock made a real impact on the match. Terrigal, with the win, maintain that undefeated record, and remain at the top of the competition ladder.
 
In a minor upset, Kariong continued their wonderful recent form with a resounding win over Avoca Beach at Kariong Oval, running out convincing winners by 36 points to 7. Based on what has occurred in recent weeks, the win may have not been an upset, but the size of the win certainly was. Kariong played the better rugby for the entire match. They controlled proceedings from start to finish and looked the far more penetrative team for the 80 minutes. Their scrum was very good, and although their lineout had problems at time, they were able to control possession for large periods of time. It was a very good game of rugby. Kariong did dominate territory for large periods and were rewarded with 5 tries in the match. The scoreline of 5 tries to one was a indicator of the difference between the two teams on the day. Kariong had a very good first half and went to the break leading by 10 points to nil. They deserved that lead but knew they had plenty to do to maintain and increase that lead. Kariong continued in the same vein in the second half and were on the attack right from the start of the second half. They were able to jump to a very handy 24 points to 0 lead at the midway point of the second half. This was further increased to 29 points to nil before Avoca Beach were able to post any points on the scoreboard. Avoca Beach did have periods of very good attack but strong and organised defence by the home side was able to keep them out. Kariong had several very good players. The best was prop Cory Holwill, and he was well supported by  hooker Justin Walker, No.8 Phil Brown and flanker Josh Bottero. Brown and Bottero formed a very impressive set of loose forwards and really did take the match to Avoca Beach. Avoca Beach were best served by fullback Nathan Brown, who never stopped trying, and hooker Josh Meadham. Kariong’s winger Jake Holwill capped off a good day for the home side, and himself, when he crossed for his third try, and his team’s fifth, right on fulltime. It was a very good result for the Kariong club who sit comfortably in the Top Four at this stage of the season. Avoca Beach will regroup after a couple of tough weeks and will be all the more strong because of recent defeats.
 
Warnervale scored their first win of the season in a very high scoring match at Woongarrah Oval. Warnervale defeated neighbouring club The Lakes by 39 points to 35 in a match that went right down to the wire. Warnervale got away to a great start and really did give themselves a great lead. They jumped to a 24 points to 11 lead at halftime and even further increased that early in the second half. At that stage it was all the home team. They were playing effective team rugby and were getting the rewards. However The Lakes were not to be denied. They came storming back into the match and all but snatched a win at the end. However it was always Warnervale who looked the winner and who played some great rugby. Warnervale had several very good players on the day. Their best players were flanker Tane Tonga, who crossed for 2 personal tries, halfback Brenton Acreman, inside centre Jack Hogan, and fellow centre Sione Branxton. The home side started the match well and gained the ascendancy and were able to hold off a fast finishing The Lakes side. The visiting team also had several very good performers. Best for them were five-eight Brendan Quigg, centre Paul Wilson and prop Glen Stone. These two teams are improving with every match and will trouble all teams from now on.
 
Woy Woy scored a very convincing win over Hornsby at Mark Taylor Oval running out winners by 51 points to 7. They were always in control and never looked in doubt of gaining a very pleasing win. Woy Woy led by 36 points to nil at the halftime break so the match was all tied up even at that stage. Hornsby did fight back at the start of the second half and to Hornsby’s great credit, that second stanza was a far more even struggle. However the damage had already been done on the scoreboard. Best players for Woy Woy were Chris Paseka, Sione Toki and Lapana Vitale while Sam White and Ben Astley gave their all for the home team. This was a good win to Woy Woy and cements their position in the Top four.
 
In President’s Cup at Gosford Showground, Gosford, after a quite even struggle in the early stages,  proved too strong for The Entrance and ran out winners by 52 points to 14.
 

CENTRAL COAST RUGBY UNION RESULTS
SATURDAY, 21st MAY, 2016
ROUND 7
 
PREMIER 1 (bonus points in brackets)
 
Terrigal                        19                   
Alec Herridge, Ethan McInnes, Josh Vainikolo tries;
Aaron Tait 2 conversions
 
defeated
Avoca Beach               7                    
Chad Martin try;
Nathan Brown 1 conversion
 
 
Kariong                       21                   
Ryan Wallbank, Mitch Clay, Shannon Beavan tries;
Scott Hanley 3 conversions
 
defeated
Ourimbah                    19 (1)  
Brett Cunningham, Matt King, Pat Nauruia tries;
Jarrod Grange 2 conversions
 
 
Gosford                       22 (1)
Sam Underwood 2, Adam Carlisle, Joel Wagner tries;
Hugo Pike 1 conversion
 
defeated
Warnervale                  19 (1)  
Jacob Griffin 2, Matt Willmott tries;
Sione Ala 2 conversions
 
 
The Lakes                    34 (1)
Che O’Brien, Heath McDonald, Dylan Rinn, Brendan Quigg, Adam Kea tries;
Bill Moroney 3 conversions, 1 penalty goal
 
defeated
Hornsby                      24
Ed Mills, Ben Astley, Sam White tries;
Sam White 3 conversions, 1 penalty goal
 
 
PREMIER 2 (bonus points in brackets)
Terrigal                        12        Avoca Beach   10 (1)
Ourimbah                    41 (1)   Kariong             5
The Lakes                   38 (1)   Hornsby          10
Gosford                       39 (1)   Warnervale        7                                  
                                      
           
PRESIDENTS CUP (bonus points in brackets)
Terrigal                        26 (1)   Avoca Beach   21 (1)
The Lakes                   82 (1)   Hornsby            0
Gosford                       74 (1)   Warnervale        5
Woy Woy                    30 (1)   The Entrance     7                     
 
 
COLTS (bonus points in brackets)
Terrigal                        31 (1)   Avoca Beach   15
Ourimbah                    76 (1)   Woy Woy          5
Warnervale                  36 (1)   Gosford           10                   
 
 
REPORT :
The Central Coast rugby competition saw some very interesting results yesterday, and these results have opened up the competition for this year. On a day when most of the scores were quick tight, in the Match of the Day, Terrigal defeated Avoca Beach by 19 points to 7 at Heazlett Park.
The match at Avoca Beach was played in front of a huge crowd and the rugby on display certainly held the interest of the crowd for much of the match. The first 40 minutes was a very even struggle with both teams giving it their all. Play went from one end of the field to the other but neither team was able to break the deadlock for quite awhile. It was Terrigal who opened the scoring late in the half to take the lead by 7 points to nil. This scoreline indicated the tightness of the match and it remained the score at the halftime break. So at that stage both teams knew that victory was certainly there for the taking. However it was Terrigal who went on with it. They were able to score further tries in the second stanza while the home side was only able to respond with one try in the second half. It was a spirited game of rugby with both teams displaying very good skills. Terrigal had several good players on the day. No.8 Josh Vainikolo was outstanding. He was strong in the set pieces but most effective around the paddock. Others to play well for Terrigal were winger Braeden Clack, and five-eight Alec Herridge. Herridge has certainly stamped his authority on matches in recent weeks, and is in very good form. Another player to perform well was flanker Ethan McInnes. McInnes, normally a hooker, moved to flanker in this match and certainly put in a sterling performance for the visitors.  Avoca Beach were never very far away from the lead but just could not bridge that gap. The scoreline of 3 tries to one was a fair indication of the flow of the match. Best for Avoca Beach were lock Peter Steele, halfback Sam Evans, and prop Josh Meadham. It was an open game of rugby with first real stoppage in the match only coming in the 34th minute of the first half. However Terrigal are now the only team in Premier 1 to remain undefeated for this season and obviously cement their spot on the top of the competition ladder. Avoca Beach were never far way on the scoreboard but will need to regroup for their match next week.
 
In a minor upset, Kariong came from behind to defeat Ourimbah at Ourimbah Rugby Park by 21 points to 19. This was an excellent win by the Kariong side and they certainly have turned their fortunes around this season. They have now won four matches on the trot and are taking all before them this year. But it was not an easy victory. Ourimbah went to the halftime break leading by 14 points to 7 and seemed to be heading for victory at that stage. They then went further ahead to lead by 19 points to 7 before the visitors steamed home. Two late tries to Kariong saw them clinch the victory with time running out. This victory on the bell sees Kariong now in equal fourth spot on the competition ladder and this position has not been held by them for many years. Best players for Kariong were No.8 Philip Brown, hooker Justin Walker, and lock Stanley Mila. However it was a good team performance and their never say die attitude gained them the victory. Ourimbah will regroup from this loss however. Their best players on the day were halfback Matt King and prop Brett Cunningham who both crossed for individual tries. This result certainly does open the competition ladder in what is proving a most interesting competition. The win by Kariong also sees them take the Challenge Shield and this will be up for grabs once again next week when Kariong are at home against Avoca Beach.
 
Gosford got out of jail when they crossed for the match winning try right on fulltime. Gosford survived a wonderful Warnervale effort at Woongarrah Oval to win by 22 points to 19. The match was a rather dour battle for the first 60 minutes but it did open up in the last quarter of the game when finally some good open rugby was put on display. Warnervale went to the halftime break leading  by 12 points to 5 and they were playing the better rugby in the match. They were starting to dominate the breakdown and things were starting to happen for them. Warnervale actually went to a bigger lead early in the second stanza and led by 19 points to 5 and it seemed their first win of the season was on the cards. However Gosford were not to be denied. They were able to cross for three tries in the final 15 minutes and snatched the lead and the match at the death. It was a good game of rugby, and got better and better as the match went on. Best players for Gosford were fullback Sam Underwood, who crossed for two tries, lock Mitch Cornwell who never stops trying, while flanker Jackson Steinbeck and five-eight Joel Wagner made real impacts in the match. No.8 Al Lock also featured with some bullocking runs. Warnervale had several very good players, but none were more effective than five-eight Sione Ala, No.8 Tevita Moala, and lock Matt Willmott. Jacob Griffin also had a great game alternating between the centres and the lineout. Warnervale are certainly improving and their first win of the season is just around the corner. Gosford were very lucky but the win does keep them in the reckoning for the rest of the season.
 
The Lakes recorded their first win of the season when they defeated Hornsby by 34 points to 24 at Slade Park. It was a big day for The Lakes, winning all grades for the first time since 2010. It proved a high scoring match and both teams certainly put on an exciting display. The Lakes did however score 5 tries to 3 and that was a good indication of the flow of the match. The Lakes led by 26 points to 10 at the halftime break and even though it seemed it was all over Hornsby fought hard and made a real match of it in the second half. In fact they outscored the home side in the final 40 minutes of the match but it was all too late. Best players for The Lakes were Glenn Stone, James McCombie and Brendan Quigg. Hornsby never stopped trying and were best served by prop Angus McQueen, flanker Rob Cleland and back Sam White. It was a good day for The Lakes who have been close to victory on several occasions this season but this is their first win of the year and they will be hoping for several more.
 
In President’s Cup at Joseph Banks Oval, Woy Woy proved too strong for The Entrance and ran out winners by 30 points to 7.
 

CENTRAL COAST RUGBY UNION RESULTS
SATURDAY, 14th MAY, 2016
ROUND 6
 
PREMIER 1 (bonus points in brackets)
 
Terrigal                        31 (1)              
Alec Herridge 3, Ethan McInnes tries;
Aaron Tait 4 conversions, 1 penalty goal
 
defeated
Gosford                         7                   
Hugo Pike try;
Josh Reid 1 conversion
 
 
Woy Woy                    34 (1)              
Fokolulu Taumalolo 2, Alifeleti Atiola, Nick Garnett, Inoke Kaitabu tries;
Wade Hannell 1 conversion;
Fokolulu Taumalolo 1 penalty goal;
Iliesa Rokodraga 2 conversions
 
defeated
Warnervale                  18                   
Sione Ala, Sione Branxton, Foleu Faupula tries;
Sione Ala 1 penalty goal
 
 
Avoca Beach               17                   
Luke Sheridan, Blake Jacob, Sam Evans tries;
Nathan Brown 1 conversion
 
defeated
The Lakes                      3                   
Bill Moroney 1 penalty goal
 
 
Kariong                       42 (1)  
Ryan Wallbank, Stanley Mila, Tom Clay, Jake Holwill, Corey Holwill, Justin Walker tries;
Scott Hanley 3 conversions, 2 penalty goals
 
defeated
Hornsby                      24                   
Daniel Leti, Sam White, Tim Graham-Robertson tries;
Sam White 3 conversions, 1 penalty goal
 
 
POINTS TABLE
Terrigal                        25
Avoca Beach               22
Ourimbah                    20
Woy Woy                    19
Kariong                       15
Gosford                       10
Hornsby                        5
The Lakes                     1
Warnervale                   0
 
PREMIER 2 (bonus points in brackets)
Terrigal                        26 (1)   Gosford             3
The Lakes                    15        Avoca Beach     5
Hornsby                      29 (1)   Kariong           12
Woy Woy                    57 (1)   Warnervale       7
                                               
PRESIDENTS CUP (bonus points in brackets)
Gosford                       24        Terrigal            17 (1)
The Lakes                    14        Avoca Beach     0
Kariong                       26 (1)   Hornsby          15
Woy Woy                    40 (1)   Warnervale        0                     
 
COLTS (bonus points in brackets)
Terrigal                        33 (1)   Gosford           17
Ourimbah                    33 (1)   Avoca Beach   14
Woy Woy                    20 (1)   Warnervale        0                   
 
REPORT :
The Central Coast rugby competition continued yesterday after last weekend’s NSW Country Championships in Armidale with Round 6. All matches were closely fought although a couple of games saw the winning side get away on the scoreboard in the final quarter of the match.
 
The Match of the Day saw Terrigal defeat Gosford by 31 points to 7 at Gosford Showground. This game was a quite even battle throughout but it was Terrigal who were able to score 4 tries to one and were able to secure the vital bonus point victory. However for much of the match there was nothing in it. Terrigal probably held that little bit more of the ascendancy throughout and always seemed that little more in control of proceedings. Much of the match was a desperate battle with play going from one end of the field to the other. Terrigal were able to secure the win with two bursts of scoring. They were able to cross for two quick tries just before halftime to go to a 17 points to 7 lead at the halftime break. They than did the same thing in the final 5 or so minutes of the match when they were able to cross for a further two tries. The match started very evenly. Gosford opened the scoring with a try to flanker to Hugo Pike. This 7 points to nil lead was just what the home side wanted. Terrigal did respond with a penalty goal and for much of the remainder of the half Gosford led by 7 points to 3. Gosford did bomb a couple of chances at scoring but it was not to be. Terrigal five-eight Alec Herridge placed Terrigal to the advantage when a brilliant chip kick and regather saw him cover 60 metres to score adjacent to the posts. Terrigal had jumped to the lead by 10 points to 7. This was quickly followed just prior to the halftime break with another long distance try. Hooker Ethan McInnes backed up a great passing movement for him to score a second converted try for his team. Suddenly the momentum of the game had changed. Those few minutes saw Terrigal leap to a 17 points to 7 halftime score.
The second half was a real battle with Gosford trying to get back into the match and Terrigal trying to cement the result. However nothing further happened on the scoreboard for 30 minutes of the second half. In the quite warm conditions both teams were feeling the effects but were putting on a great game of rugby. The game alternated between attack and defence for both teams and neither was able to break through. Because of the scoreline Terrigal always seemed to have things in control. Best players for Terrigal were five-eight Alec Herridge, who crossed for three wonderful tries. He was well supported by centre Mitch Hirst, winger Dan Sargeant, flanker Ryan Metcalfe and hooker Ethan McInnes. Gosford had several good performers but none were better than forwards Al Lock and Hugo Pike, while backs Josh Reid and Josh McGlynn always looked as though they could make that vital break. Terrigal secured the win with the final two tries in the closing minutes, both to flyhalf Alec Herridge. It was an excellent win by Terrigal who remain undefeated and are currently top of the competition ladder. For the third week in a row, Gosford gave a good performance but without securing any vital competition points.
 
Kariong continued on their winning way when they defeated Hornsby by 42 points to 24 at Mark Taylor Oval. This was also a quite even battle until well into the match. Kariong did lead by 20 points to 12 at the halftime break and did deserve that lead, but Hornsby were still at that stage definitely in the match. Kariong did however score 6 tries to 3 and overall that was a good indication of the flow of the whole 80 minutes. Best players for Kariong were lock Stanley Mila, five-eight Ryan Wallbank, hooker Justin Walker and prop Cory Holwill. Representative player Mitch Clay was also always dangerous with the ball in hand for the entire match. Hornsby never gave in, and very good efforts from Sam White and Tim Graham-Robertson kept the home side in the match for quite awhile. Kariong with the win have now secured three victories on the trot and are going through a real resurgence in recent weeks. Hornsby were most competitive on the day but just could not stop the visitors from securing their win.
 
Avoca Beach had a tough day at Slade Park before securing a hard fought win over The Lakes by 17 points to 3. This was an arm wrestle from start to finish and it took a long time before Avoca Beach were safe with the win. Avoca Beach only led by 7 points to 3 at the halftime break so both sides were definitely in the picture at that stage. Both teams had periods of attack throughout the match but neither could break through for any real dominance. Avoca Beach scored a try early in the second half to increase their lead to 12 points to 3 but for much of remainder of the half there was nothing between the teams. Avoca Beach only felt safe in the last minutes when they crossed for the third try to get the win by 17 points to 3. Avoca Beach maintains their undefeated record so far this season but they really did have to work hard to maintain that position in this match. It was a very good effort by The Lakes and they must be very close to their first victory of the season. Best players for Avoca Beach were prop Emile Thomas, forward Peter Steele, and flanker Blake Jacob, who crossed for a decisive try. The Lakes played well as a team, but their best players on the day were flanker Che Nisbet, winger Dylan Rinn and back Bill Moroney.
 
Woy Woy defeated Warnervale by 34 points to 18 at Woy Woy Oval but it did take a wholehearted effort by the home team to overcome the visitors. Woy Woy only led by 10 points to 8 at the halftime break and Warnervale probably saw this as a great chance to cause an upset and to get their first win of the season. It was not to be as Woy Woy played far better in the second half and were able to go on and get the win. It was one of Warnervale’s best efforts of the season and the club will take real heart from this performance. The visitors played good rugby and did push the home side all the way. Best players for Woy Woy were centre Wade Hannell and forward Nick Garnett. Neither player stopped trying all day. Best players for Warnervale were Sione Branxton and Sione Ala. The win sees Woy Woy maintain their 4th spot on the ladder in what is proving a topsy turvy battle at the top of the ladder.

CENTRAL COAST COMPETE  AT THE
NSW COUNTRY CHAMPIONSHIPS IN ARMIDALE
 
Central Coast had an enjoyable weekend in Armidale at the NSW Country Championships. Both the Senior team and the Colts team put in good performances over the two days of the Championships.
The 1st XV lost both their two matches but put in very concerted effort on both days. The Colts team reached the Tier 1 Colts Final with a fantastic win over rivals New England on the Saturday before going down in the Final in a close one to Hunter by 18 points to 13. The performance by both teams was excellent, and we are hoping that it augurs well for both teams over the next few years.
 
SENIORS ….. CALDWELL CUP
 
Game 1           CENTRAL COAST  v. ILLAWARRA
                        Saturday, 7th May, 2016       12.50 pm
 
The first match started out as a very physical encounter with both teams giving it their all in the opening stages. Good defence by the Central Coast kept out the Illawarra side in the early stages. However continual attack by Illawarra saw them post the first points. A penalty goal and a converted try saw Illawarra jump to a 10 points to nil lead at the 20 minute mark. Central Coast did miss two kickable penalty shots at goal. Things were not going well at that stage. Illawarra was setting the pace but the Coast side was hanging in there. Things changed at the 27th minute when Central Coast crossed for their first try. Halfback Matt King capped off a great movement to cross under the posts. The conversion of the try by fullback Nathan Brown had reduced the lead to 10 points to 7. The remainder of the half saw Central Coast play their best rugby of the weekend. They scored a great try soon after the first. A break by team Captain Josh McGlynn saw several passes result in replacement flanker Jarrod Grange cross adjacent to the posts. It was a wonderful 50 metre try. The conversion of this try had taken the Coast side to a 14 points to 10 lead. This was to be the score at the halftime break and things were certainly looking good. Illawarra were the current Caldwell Cup Champions and were a very big team. However the second half did not start well. Illawarra quickly hit back and had crossed for a converted try within 3 minutes of the start of the half. The Central Coast team was playing good rugby however. Best players for the Coast team were flanker Sam Kenny, halfback Matt King, hooker Ethan McInnes and centre Matt Anderson. Five-eight Josh McGlynn was also directing play very well. Central Coast kicked a penalty goal at the midway point of the second stanza and the scores were level at 17 points apiece. The match was certainly up for grabs at that stage. However Illawarra proved too strong in the last quarter of the match and were able to cross for two converted tries. Central Coast gave it their all and was right in the picture for much of the game. It was disappointing to fade away towards the end but it was not for the lack of any effort.  
Central Coast                        17         
Matt King, Jarrod Grange tries;
Nathan Brown 2 conversions;
Jarrod Grange 1 penalty goal

lost to
Illawarra                    31                   
4 tries, 1 penalty goal and 4 conversions
 
 
 
Game 2           CENTRAL COAST  v. CENTRAL NORTH
                        Sunday, 8th May, 2016                      12.30 pm
 
Central Coast started this match brilliantly with a try within the opening 2 minutes. Fullback Nathan Brown scored the try and the Central Coast side had the start they wanted. Winger Mitch Clay made a long break before passing infield to Brown who raced in for a great try. This 70 metre try certainly got things off on the right foot. This 5 nil score line was quickly increased with a further two penalty goals to Nathan Brown. Central Coast led by 11 points to nil within the opening 10 minutes and things were looking great. The team was playing aggressive rugby and the benefits were flowing. Both teams played some very good rugby in the opening quarter of the match and both teams had their chances of posting points. But it was the Central Coast who led early. However Central North was not to be denied. They gradually got back into the match with two tries. With the first of these two tries converted, Central North had quickly gained the lead of 12 points to 11. It was a good game to watch as both teams were intent on spreading the ball wide. A further 2 penalty goals and a late try saw Central North go farther ahead in this half, and very quickly had jumped to a 25 points to 11 lead. They were a big team and the Central Coast team were sure they would get back into the match in the second half in the quite warm conditions. This score line of 25 points to 11 remained the score at halftime. Best players for the Central Coast were fullback Nathan Brown, lock Joe Taylor, but generally all players put in very good efforts. The second half only lasted a few minutes. A very serious leg injury to one of the Central North players resulted in the match being abandoned. Central Coast had high hopes of coming home in this match but the injury did put a dampener on the match and the players. It was a most unfortunate way to conclude the Seniors campaign.
 
Central Coast                        11                   
Nathan Brown try;
Nathan Brown 2 penalty goals

lost to
Central North            25                   
3 tries, 2 conversions, 2 penalty goals
 
 
COLTS
 
Game 1           CENTRAL COAST  v. NEW ENGLAND
                        Saturday, 7th May 201          2.20 pm
 
In one of the best games of rugby over the weekend the Central Coast team played outstanding rugby to win this match. It was an even battle throughout but the Central Coast team played their best rugby for many years. New England opened the scoring with a converted try and this 7 - 0 lead remained the score for much of the first half. Both teams had periods of attack but good defence from both teams limited the scoring opportunities. Central Coast did cross for a try but it was disallowed due to an earlier infringement. It was proving quite frustrating for the team. Central Coast scored their first try right at the end of the half, in the 33rd minute, when their winger Mitch Starkey crossed for a good try. The try was the result of sustained pressure by the team. The score of 7 points to 5 remained the score at halftime and the match was very much on the edge. New England went further ahead at the start of the second stanza when they crossed for a converted try in the 7th minute of this half. With the scoreline at 14 points to 5 things were not looking comfortable for the Central Coast team. However, much of the remainder of the match saw the Central Coast team on the attack. They did dominate proceedings but wrong options, dropped ball, and very good New England defence were proving strong obstacles to any scoring chances. At the 12th minute centre Wade Hannell broke through and scored a very good try. This reduced the New England lead to 14 points to 10 and the result was there for the taking. Central Coast were dominating territory in the final quarter of the match, and this dominance was rewarded in the 27th minute when winger Dylan Galvin crossed for a great converted try to make the score 17 points to 14 with time running out. This remained the final score. Best players for Central Coast were centre Wade Hannell, flanker Lapana Vitale, winger Dylan Galvin and prop Dan Matthew. It was a tense and exciting match, but one which Central Coast did deserve to win. It was wonderful win and placed the team into the Tier 1 Colts final the following day against Newcastle Hunter.
 
 Central Coast           17                   
Mitch Starkey, Wade Hannell, Dylan Galvin tries;
Jaydn Pearson 1 conversion

defeated
New England             14                   
2 tries, 2 conversions
 
 
 
Game 2           COLTS FINAL (Tier 1)
CENTRAL COAST  v. NEWCASTLE HUNTER
                        Sunday, 8th May, 2016          1 pm
 
The Central Coast team played good rugby in the opening stages of the Colts Final. It was a very even start and with the match being played in warm conditions the players knew they were in for a tough encounter. Central Coast had good periods of attack and also displayed excellent defence when required. Central Coast opened the scoring in the 5th minute when flanker Lapana Vitale broke from the scrum and scored a try wide out. This 5 points to nil lead was just what the team needed. Things were even better straight from the kickoff when Central Coast went on the attack and Dylan Galvin scored wide out. These two tries in a couple of minutes had given Central Coast a wonderful 10 points to nil lead after only 7 minutes. The remainder of the first half was an even battle but the Newcastle team were able to claw their way back into the match. They scored a try midway through the half and then scored right on the halftime break. It was most disappointing for the Coast team but the score was locked at 10 points apiece with neither side able to kick a goal in the half. The second half continued in much the same vein. Both teams kicked a penalty each to level the scores at 13 points apiece midway through this second stanza. Central Coast had several very good players in this match. These included No.8 Robert Peden, centre Alec Dark, and flankers Lapana Vitale and Owen Turner. Central Coast continued to have opportunities to post points but it was not to be. Missed penalty goals did not help, and the lineout went astray on occasions. Newcastle Hunter scored a try in the 26th minute so with under 10 minutes to go Newcastle Hunter led by 18 points to 13. Central Coast continued to attack but could not break through. They were awarded several penalties late in the game, and on one occasion were held up very close to the line. It was a heart wrenching finish but the Newcastle team were able to hold on to gain the 18-13 victory. The Central Coast team had gone so close to being NSW Country Champions. The win against New England the previous day may have taken a lot from the players, but the team put in such a great effort and were obviously shattered at the final result. The team had finished 2nd and will remain in Tier 1 and hopefully can go that one step further next year.
 
 
Central Coast                        13                   
Lapana Vitale, Dylan Galvin tries;
Jaydn Pearson 1 penalty goal

lost to
Newcastle Hunter      18                   
3 tries, 1 penalty goal
 
 
CONCLUSION :
It was a mixed weekend for Central Coast Rugby Union results wise. The Colts will remain in Tier 1 next year, while the Seniors, despite playing very well, will now be playing in the Richardson Shield in 2017. Both teams were a credit to Central Coast Rugby, and the coaching staff of both teams did an excellent job.
 

CENTRAL COAST RUGBY UNION RESULTS
SATURDAY, 30th APRIL, 2016
ROUND 5
 
PREMIER 1 (bonus points in brackets)
 
Terrigal                        50 (1)
Alec Herridge 2, Tom Lowe, Ryan Metcalfe, Josh Vainikolo, Mitch Hirst, Junior Stowers tries;
Aaron Tait 4 conversions, 1 penalty goal;
Alec Herridge 2 conversions
 
defeated
Woy Woy                      8                   
Iliesa Rokodraga try;
Alex Moore 1 penalty goal
 
 
Avoca Beach               23
Matt Anderson, Mitch Jacob tries;
Nathan Brown 2 conversions, 3 penalty goals
 
defeated
Gosford                       10                   
Chris Heap try;
Josh Reid 1 conversion, 1 penalty goal
 
 
Ourimbah                    55 (1)
Sam Kearney 3, Owen Turner 2, Matt King, Isaac Harding-Davis, Jonte Witt, Jarrod Grange tries;
Jarrod Grange 5 conversions
 
defeated
Warnervale                  20                   
Sione Ala, Brennan Wanstall, Netane Tonga tries;
Sione Ala 1 conversion, 1 penalty goal
 
 
Kariong                       44 (1)              
Mitch Clay 2, Ryan Hughes, Eric Hema, Justin Walker, Tom Clay tries;
Scott Hanley 4 conversions, 2 penalty goals
 
defeated
The Lakes                      7                   
Dillon Rinn try;
Bill Moroney 1 conversion

POINTS TABLE
Terrigal                        20
Ourimbah                    20
Avoca Beach               18
Woy Woy                    14
Gosford                       10
Kariong                       10
Hornsby                        5
The Lakes                     1
Warnervale                   0
 
PREMIER 2 (bonus points in brackets)
Woy Woy        24 (1)               Terrigal            17 (1)
Gosford           22 (1)               Avoca Beach     5
Kariong           12                    The Lakes        12       
Ourimbah        19                    Warnervale      12 (1)                
                                               
PRESIDENTS CUP (bonus points in brackets)
Terrigal            24                    Woy Woy        21 (1)
Gosford           41 (1)               Avoca Beach     7
The Lakes        19                    Kariong           12 (1)  
The Entrance   15                    Hornsby            0                                 
 
COLTS (bonus points in brackets)
Terrigal            43 (1)               Woy Woy          7
Gosford           22                    Avoca Beach     7       
Warnervale      13                    Ourimbah          7 (1)  
 
 
REPORT :
The Central Coast rugby competition continued in Round 5 with some very interesting and exciting matches. The Match of the Day saw Terrigal run out very convincing winners over Woy Woy at The Haven Oval by 50 points to 8. Terrigal started the game in excellent style and were never headed for the remainder of the match. Terrigal started so well that they had piled on 20 points within the first quarter of the match. Woy Woy were besieged in those opening minutes of the match and had no answer to the Terrigal onslaught. Terrigal continued the great form and were to continue on and cross for a total of 7 tries in the match. The final tally of 7 tries to Woy Woy’s 1 was a great indication of the flow of the match. Best players for Terrigal included fullback Alec Herridge, who crossed for 2 individual tries, lock Phil Heard, while players such as Ryan Metcalfe, Tom Lowe and Josh Vainikolo put in some outstanding performances. Woy Woy had no answer and were able to only respond with the single try. Best players for the visitors were centre Wade Hannell and forward Chris Paseka, neither stopped trying all day. Woy Woy did have several players out injured but on the day it was all Terrigal and this may not have even made a difference. Terrigal continue on the winning ways and remain undefeated so far this season. Terrigal are certainly in some great form and are one of the form teams in the competition this year. Woy Woy will regroup. They have been playing well.
 
Avoca Beach also maintained their undefeated record when they defeated Gosford by 23 points to 10 at Heazlett Park. This was a far tougher match than the one described above and there was not much between these two sides on the day. Both teams were able to kick an early penalty goal to make the opening score 3 points apiece before Gosford winger Chris Heap took an intercept and scored the opening try. The conversion of this try had taken Gosford to an early lead of 10 points to 3. This was the scoreline for quite awhile. Both teams had periods of attack but good defence from both sides kept scoring to a minimum. It was Avoca Beach who was able to cross for two tries to enable them to take the lead. Tries to the Avoca Beach centre pairing of Matt Anderson and Mitch Jacob saw the home side take the lead of 17 points to 10. At this stage both sides knew they could get the victory but it was the home side who were able to kick two penalty goals in the last quarter of the match to seal the victory. Best players for Avoca Beach were prop Emile Thomas and hooker Josh Meadham, while centres Matt Anderson and Blake Jacob were strong all day. Gosford played well but were unable to get that vital try in the second half. The scoreline of two tries to one demonstrated the closeness of the match. Best performers for Gosford were flanker Jackson Steinbeck, and backs Josh McGlynn and Josh Reid gave it their all.
 
Kariong recorded their second win in a row when they accounted for The Lakes by 44 points to 7 at Kariong Oval. The win was not a surprise but the size of the victory probably was. Kariong started well and were always in control. They were able to cross for a total of 7 tries, while The Lakes were only able to cross for the single touch down. Mitch Clay, on his return from injury, had a great game, and was able to cross for 2 tries from fullback. He was well supported by halfback Scott Hanley, centre Ryan Hughes and hooker Justin Walker. Kariong are in a patch of good form at present. The Lakes were hit with injuries on the day and did struggle. Their best performers were prop Glenn Stone and back Paul Wilson. The Lakes are still searching for their first win while Kariong, with the win, equal Gosford on the competition ladder.
 
Ourimbah returned to form after last week’s loss with a resounding win over Warnervale at Ourimbah Rugby Park by 55 points to 20. Ourimbah were always in control, and were able to cross for 9 tries during the 80 minutes. They started well and were never headed. Best players for Ourimbah were flanker Owen Turner, who scored 2 tries, while forward Sam Kearney also crossed for 3 tries. It was a very good effort by the home team. Warnervale gave it their best and were competitive early on. Warnervale had several good players but none were better than Cameron McNamara, Sione Ala, and No.8 Netane Tonga.
 
In the President’s Cup, The Entrance and Hornsby met at Mark Taylor Oval and The Entrance was able to cross for 3 tries in their 15 points to 0 victory over the home side.