CENTRAL COAST RUGBY UNIONRESULTS
SATURDAY, 26th MAY, 2018
ROUND 7
 
PREMIER 1 (bonus points in brackets)
 
Ourimbah                    14                   
Jack Stonestreet, Jarrod Grange tries;
Jarrod Grange 2 conversions
 
defeated
Terrigal                         8 (1)
Brent Merritt try;
Sekope Maea 1 penalty goal
 
 
Avoca Beach               31 (1)
Mick Arnold 2, Peter Steele, Mitch Jacob, Luke Sheridan tries;
Dylan Cadogan 2 penalty goals
 
defeated
Warnervale                 19                   
Daniel Ford, Joey Walton, Luke Burgess tries;
Cameron McNamara 2 conversions
                                                           
 
Kariong                       34 (1)
Ryan Wallbank, Phil Brown, Mitch Clay tries; Penalty try;
Scott Hanley 4 conversions, 2 penalty goals
 
defeated
The Lakes                   31 (2)
Paula Sautu 2, Peni Raulini, Harry Pirini, James McCombie tries;
Logan Hemopo 3 conversions
 
 
Hornsby                      32 (1)
Brendan Maxworthy, Lachlan Skulander, Mitch Fullager, Chris O’Rourke, Rock Satu tries;
Sam White 2 conversions, 1 penalty goal
 
defeated
Woy Woy                   14                   
Wade Hannell, Sunita Fahaki tries;
Alex Moore 2 conversions
 
 
PREMIER 2 (bonus points in brackets)
Ourimbah                    38 (1)  Terrigal             3
Avoca Beach               26 (1)  Warnervale       7
The Lakes                   40 (1)  Kariong             6
Hornsby                      20        Woy Woy       14 (1)
                                     
 
PRESIDENTS CUP (bonus points in brackets)
Ourimbah                    27 (1)  Terrigal           10
The Entrance              12        Gosford             7 (1)
                       
                                                              
COLTS – mid season interchange
Wanderers                  12        Avoca Beach     0
Nelsons Bay                44        Ourimbah          0
Merewether                20        Terrigal             0
 
 
WOMEN (bonus points in brackets)
Woy Woy                 17        Hornsby            0                               
Woy Woy                 19        Hornsby            0                               
Ourimbah                 15       Terrigal           10 (1)
Terrigal                    27 (1)  Ourimbah        17
Avoca Beach            17       Warnervale     10 (1)
Avoca Beach             0        Warnervale       0
 
 
REPORT :
In another very interesting and absorbing day of rugby on the Central Coast, the competition became even more clouded in terms of the Premiership race. There were very hard fought clashes, some upsets, and quite a lot of excellent rugby.
 
In the Match of the Day Ourimbah hung on to defeat Terrigal by 14 points to 8 at Ourimbah Rugby Park. It was an intense, hard fought battle throughout. There was nothing in the scores for the entire 80 minutes. Ourimbah did hold the lead for the entire match but they were never able to get away from Terrigal. They led throughout but knew Terrigal was just behind them on the scoreboard and always a threat. Ourimbah scored the only try in the first half and with Terrigal only responding with a single penalty goal it was Ourimbah who led at the halftime break by 7 points to 3. This try by Jack Stonestreet was a deserved one. Best player for Ourimbah during this period was flanker Jarrod Grange. He had a great match and was everywhere in attack and defence. He also posted 9 personal points in the match. Others to play well for the home side were prop Will Fraser and No.8 Elekana Laupola. Terrigal tried everything they could in the second half to bridge the gap. They played some very concerted rugby and threw all they had at Ourimbah. The home side scored their second converted try early in the second half and had jumped to a handy 14 points to 3 lead. Things were looking good for them. However Terrigal quickly responded with their own try and reduced the lead to 14 points to 8. It was in the final 15 minutes that Terrigal attacked incessantly but were unable to break through some very determined defence. It was a wholehearted display by both teams. Best for Terrigal were halfback Sekope Maea, No.8 Salipopo Pamata and prop Jay Grogan. The win cements Ourimbah’s position at the top of the competition ladder while the loss by Terrigal sees them drop to third spot on the ladder in what is developing into a most interesting competition.
 
Avoca Beach proved too strong for Warnervale at Heazlett Park and ran out winners by 31 points to 19. Avoca Beach always seemed to be in charge on the scoreboard but Warnervale were always a threat. The home side had the better of the first half and led at the halftime break by 23 points to 14. It was a handy lead and one that was deserved. Avoca Beach played pleasing rugby and were able to cross for four tries in that first 40 minutes. The second half was a far more even affair. Both teams were only able to cross for the single try each, and the Warnervale team were simply unable to bridge the gap on the scoreboard. The win by Avoca Beach sees them leapfrog Terrigal into second position on the ladder. Best players for Avoca Beach were outside centre Mitch Jacob, five-eight Dylan Cadogan, No. 8 Peter Steele and fullback Mick Arnold, who was able to cross for 2 tries in the match. Warnervale were never that far behind and will take a lot from the match. Their best players were halfback Brenton Acreman, flanker Cameron McNamara and five-eight Joey Walton. Warnervale stay in the Top Four despite the loss and have a lot to look forward to in the coming weeks.
 
Kariong finally got their first win of the season when they kicked a very late penalty goal to defeat The Lakes by 34 points to 31 at Kariong Oval. It was an exciting match from start to finish. The points scoring was never ending and there were some fine tries scored during the match. The scores see-sawed throughout the match, with one team in front, then the other. It was a great spectacle for the spectators on hand. It was also intense as both teams needed the win. Kariong went to the halftime break leading by 24 points to 19, and this was after The Lakes led by 19 points to 10 midway through that first half. So Kariong certainly had a great end to the first half. Best players for Kariong were flanker Josh Bottero, five-eight Mitch Clay, and halfback Scott Hanley. The second half went much the same way. Some excellent tries, and with the result in doubt until the final minutes. With scores locked at 31 points apiece with time running out, it was Kariong who kicked the winning penalty goal and then held out some sustained The Lakes attack before securing the victory. Both teams know there is a gap from their position to the fourth placed team on the ladder but they know with some wins they can certainly bridge that gap.
 
Hornsby caused the upset of the round when they defeated Woy Woy at Mark Taylor Oval by 32 points to 14. Hornsby led for much of the match and fully deserved the victory. It was certainly their best win of the season. Hornsby led at the halftime break by 17 points to 14 and at that stage the match was certainly up for grabs. Both teams had scored some good tries and had played some exciting rugby. Best players for Woy Woy were Alifeleti Atiola and Fokolulu Taumalolo. Both players were always dangerous with the ball in hand. However Hornsby was able to keep Woy Woy scoreless in the second half, while they themselves were able to respond with 15 unanswered points. It was a most satisfying win for the Hornsby team and they will cause problems to all teams from now on. Best players for Hornsby were lock Ollie Jenkins, halfback Jack Woodrow and back Mitch Fullager. It was a most disappointing day for Woy Woy. They are so close to the Top Four but this loss will make things difficult for them. They need to get back on track quickly in the next few weeks and get some vital wins.
 
The Entrance had a pleasing win over Gosford at Joseph Banks Oval in the President’s Cup by 12 points to 7. It was very tight throughout but it was the home side that was in front at the full time whistle.
 
The Women’s 7’s saw some exciting matches. Terrigal, Ourimbah, Woy Woy and Avoca Beach all scored some good wins in what is developing into a hard fought and close competition.

CENTRAL COAST RUGBY UNIONRESULTS
SATURDAY, 19th MAY, 2018
ROUND 6
 
 
PREMIER 1
Avoca Beach               28                   
Liam Donsworth, Peter Steele, Julian Bacigalupo tries;
Dylan Cadogan 3 penalty goals, 2 conversions
 
defeated
Woy Woy                   19                   
Max Edwards, Alifeleti Atiola, Hosekkaia Palaula tries;
Alex Moore 2 conversions
 
 
Ourimbah                    38 (1)
Josefa Biu, Mesa Collata, Jaydn Pearson, Connor Peden, Toby Carver tries;
Jarrod Grange 5 conversions, 1 penalty goal
 
defeated
Kariong                       14                   
Ryan Wallbank, Sean Peruch tries;
Ryan Wallbank 2 conversions
 
 
Warnervale                 35 (1)
Daniel Ford 2, Joey Walton, Sam Heterick, Luke Burgess tries;
Cameron McNamara 1 conversion;
Joey Walton 1 conversion, 2 penalty goals
 
defeated
Gosford                       20 (1)
Jackson Steinbeck 2, Josh McGlynn, Adam Carlisle tries
 
Terrigal                       36 (1)
Dylan Calabria 2, Setareki Wainiqolo, Dan Sargeant, Mitchell Clack, Ryan Metcalfe tries;
Aaron Tait 3 conversions
 
defeated
Hornsby                      12                   
Sam White, Brendan Maxworthy tries;
Sam White 1 conversion
 
 
PREMIER 2
Avoca Beach               19        Woy Woy       12 (1)
Kariong                       20        Ourimbah        17 (1)
Gosford                       26 (1)  Warnervale     17
Terrigal                       53 (1)  Hornsby            6
                                     
PRESIDENTS CUP
Woy Woy                   34 (1)  Avoca Beach   12
The Lakes                   19        The Entrance  15 (1)
                                                                                      
COLTS – MID SEASON INTERCHANGE
Wanderers                  34        Woy Woy       12                               
Hamilton                     36        Terrigal           14
Merewether                20        Ourimbah          0
Nelsons Bay                20        Warnervale       0
 
WOMEN
Woy Woy                   33 (1)  Avoca Beach     0
Woy Woy                   27 (1)  Avoca Beach     5
Terrigal                       19        Hornsby            5
Terrigal                       22 (1)  Hornsby            5
 
 
REPORT :
 
The Central Coast Rugby Union competition certainly provided another interesting round of matches. All matches started quite evenly but several saw teams get away in the final stages.
 
The Match of the Day at Woy Woy Oval however was close throughout. Avoca Beach came from behind to win by 28 points to 19. This match was a very evenly fought encounter from start to finish. Woy Woy had the slightly better first half and went to the halftime break leading by 19 points to 15. The two teams went try for try in this first period but neither team was able to break away from the other on the scoreboard. Obviously both teams went into the second half with high hopes and both teams knew it would be battle to the final whistle. Woy Woy played well in the first half. Their best player was five-eight Fokolulu Taumalolo, who was dangerous every time he touched the ball. He was very ably assisted by halfback Mitch Hyde, hooker Nick Garnett and centre Sunita Fihaki. The second half continued to be hard fought. However the big difference in the second stanza was that Woy Woy were unable to post any further points. They were kept scoreless by Avoca Beach who themselves were able to score 13 unanswered points. The half was still close but good Avoca Beach defence kept the home side from scoring. Best players for Avoca Beach were No.8 Peter Steele, fullback Shaun Townsend, and lock Emile Thomas. Avoca Beach, with two wins over the last 2 weeks, have jumped themselves into the Top Four and are certainly looking like one of the form teams of the competition. Woy Woy were in this match for a long time and would not be pleased with the result. They know they must play more concerted rugby in that second half. For three weeks in a row they have let things go in the second half although in the first two weeks they still got away with a win. They are definitely a semi-final threat this year however.
 
Ourimbah proved their good form with a rousing victory over Kariong at Ourimbah Rugby Park by 38 points to 14. They are sitting at the top of the competition ladder and are certainly setting the pace in the competition so far this year. Kariong started the match well. They commenced so well that they had very soon in the match crossed for two converted tries. At 14 points to nil things were looking so good for them. However, it was not long before Ourimbah started to fire, and they gradually reduced the scoreline in the match. By late in the first half they had evened up the score at 14 points apiece and by halftime had taken the lead by 21 points to 14. Best players for Kariong in that early period were flanker Blake Silvester, who never stopped trying, hooker Justin Walker, and centre Ryan Wallbank, who posted a try and 2 goals. The second half however saw Ourimbah really place their dominance on the match and were able to score a further 17 points while keeping Kariong scoreless. It was a very efficient performance by the Ourimbah team and the effort certainly showed why they are leading the competition. Best players for Ourimbah were five-eight Toby Carver, and forwards Brett Cunningham and Mesa Colata. It was a very good all round performance by the Ourimbah team.
 
Warnervale continued on their winning way with a good win over Gosford at Woongarrah Oval by 35 points to 20. Warnervale were always in control, both on the paddock and on the scoreboard. Warnervale led by 17 points to 5 at the halftime break, and even though Gosford posted 3 tries in the second half, Warnervale were able to maintain their control and their lead on the scoreboard. Gosford definitely had their chances but not being able to kick any goals did not help their cause. Best players for Gosford were back Sam Underwood and forward Jackson Steinbeck. Gosford gained a bonus point with 4 tries but were simply unable to kick a conversion. Warnervale played well. They were best served by prop Mark Donald and five-eight Joey Walton, who posted 13 individual points. Warnervale have cemented a spot in the Top Four and are showing good form at this point of the season.
 
Terrigal returned to the winner’s list when they defeated Hornsby by 36 points 12 at The Haven Oval. It was an interesting game in that Terrigal went to the halftime break leading by 31 points to nil. It seemed the doors were open and the points would pile on in the second half. But it was not to be. In fact Hornsby were the better team in the second half and outplayed and outscored Terrigal in that final 40 minutes to the4tune of 12 points to 5. But it was all too late. Terrigal were most effective in the first 40 minutes and showed why they are sitting near the top of the ladder. Best players for Terrigal were five-eight Vaughan Kernan, lock Joe Taylor, and centre Dylan Calabria. Hornsby had several good players, especially in the second half. These players were centre Brendan Maxworthy, fullback Sam White, and five-eight Mitch Fullager.
 
The Lakes defeated The Entrance at Slade Park in the President’s Cup by 19 points to 15. It was a close battle throughout, and both teams had definite chances of victory.
 
The Women’s 7’s continued to go from strength to strength, with Woy Woy proving at this stage of the season they are one of the teams to defeat this year. Terrigal also struck some form with good wins at the weekend.
 
The U/19’s competition is on a short break from competition points while our local sides take on teams from the Newcastle Hunter competition. Both matches yesterday were very competitive and played in a wonderful spirit. The teams evenly matched with Wanderers and Hamilton running away with wins. While Terrigal and Woy Woy both lost to their northern opponents, they enjoyed taking on some different opposition.  

​CENTRAL COAST RUGBY UNIONRESULTS
SATURDAY, 12th MAY, 2018
ROUND 5
 
PREMIER 1 (bonus points in brackets)
 
Avoca Beach               17                   
Liam Donsworth try
Dylan Cadogan 4 penalty goals
 
defeated
Terrigal                       15 (1)
Setareki Wainiqolo, Dylan Calabria, Alex Brewin tries
 
 
 
Woy Woy                   21                   
Jake Cucek, Alifeleti Atiola, Kane Burns tries
Alex Moore 3 conversions
 
defeated
Gosford                       17 (1)
Brendon Montgomery, Chad Sneyd, Jack Shelley tries
Michael Jones conversion
 
 
 
Warnervale                 32 (1)
Joey Walton 2, Mark Donald, Luke Dickson, Luke Burgess tries
Cameron McNamara 2 conversions, penalty goal
 
defeated
The Lakes                   12                   
Peni Raulini, James McCombie tries
Logan Hemopo conversion
 
 
 
Ourimbah                    72 (1)
Owen Turner 2, Will Fraser, Josefa Biu, Mesa Colata, Keegan Evans, Clint Guyatt, Elekama Laupola, Matt King, Jack Stonestreet, Jaydn Pearson, Tom Sheean tries
Jarrod Grange 6 conversions
 
defeated
Hornsby                      12                   
Angus MacQueen, Toby Forde tries
Mitch Fullager conversion
 
 
PREMIER 2 (bonus points in brackets)
Avoca Beach               24 (1)  Terrigal                       17 (1)
Gosford                       16        Woy Woy                   5
The Lakes                   50 (1)  Warnervale                 7
Ourimbah                    38 (1)  Hornsby                      5
                                     
PRESIDENTS CUP (bonus points in brackets)
Terrigal                       18        Avoca Beach               13 (1)
Woy Woy                   48 (1)  Gosford                       14
Ourimbah                    20 (1)  Hornsby                      0
                                                                                      
COLTS (bonus points in brackets)
Woy Woy                   32 (1)  Ourimbah                      5                                           
Terrigal                       19        Avoca Beach               13 (1)
 
WOMEN (bonus points in brackets)
Terrigal                       15        Avoca Beach               10 (1)
Woy Woy                   12        Warnervale                 5 (1)  
Hornsby                      27 (1)  Ourimbah                    12
Terrigal                       12        Avoca Beach               12                               
Woy Woy                   12        Warnervale                 10 (1) 
Hornsby                      22 (1)  Ourimbah                    17 (1)
 
 
REPORT :
 
The Central Coast Rugby Union competition certainly provided another interesting round of matches. Some surprising results, both upset wins and surprising scores, saw the competition table change once again.
 
In the Match of the Day Avoca Beach had their best win of the season when they ended the undefeated run of Terrigal. Avoca Beach defeated the previously undefeated Terrigal by 17 points to 15 at Heazlett Park. In what many would describe as an upset, the match was not decided until the very final whistle. The match was so evenly fought from start to finish. Avoca Beach only led by the single point at halftime, 6 points to 5. That score alone indicates the closeness of the match. Terrigal did score the only try in the half but the home side were able to take the lead through two penalty goals to five-eight Dylan Cadogan. The second half continued in much the same vein with no quarter asked for or given. In some ways Terrigal were a little unlucky, they did score two further tries in the second half but simply were unable to post any conversions. In fact Terrigal were able to score 3 tries to one, but the wonderful goal kicking by Dylan Cadogan was able to get the home side to the lead and to the win. The final penalty goal was kicked right on fulltime to convert a scoreline of 15-14 to a victory score of 17-15. Best players for Avoca Beach were lock Peter Steele, on his return to Premier 1, inside centre Mitch Jacob, and flanker Dan Reihana. Terrigal were best served by forward Setareki Wainiqolo, centre Dylan Calabria and five-eight Vaughan Kernan. The win by Avoca Beach certainly opens up the competition and proves how open and competitive this competition is this year.
 
Warnervale proved they will be a force in the competition this year when they defeated The Lakes by 32 points to 12 at Woongarrah Oval. In this local derby the play was willing from start to finish. Warnervale dominated for much of the fixture, leading by 20 points to 5 at the halftime break. They were able to maintain this lead and hold on for a well deserved victory. Warnervale scored 5 tries to 2 and that statistic was a fair indication of the flow of the match. Best players for the home side were prop Kevin McNamara, flanker Zac McGowan and five-eight Joey Walton. The Lakes tried everything to get back into the game. Their best players were Logan Hemopo and Peni Raulini. The win sees Warnervale maintain their spot in the Top Four while The Lakes just drop out.
 
Woy Woy hung on to record a close win over Gosford at Gosford Showground, running out winners by 21 points to 17. It was all Woy Woy in the first half and they went to the halftime break leading by 21-7. Gosford managed to change the shape of the game in second stanza, scoring two more tries to none but it wasn’t enough to topple the visitors. Mitch Cornwell had his usual strong game for the Red Devils while winger Alex Moore had a strong game for the Lions.
 
Ourimbah were far too good for Hornsby at Mark Taylor Oval, running away with a 72 points to 12 win. The Razorbacks ran in twelve and were never trouble by the home side that did not have a good day on the paddock. Prop Will Fraser was best for the visitors while Mitch Fullager never stopped for the home side.
 
 

CENTRAL COAST RUGBY UNIONRESULTS
SATURDAY, 5th MAY, 2018
ROUND 4
 
PREMIER 1 (bonus points in brackets)
 
Ourimbah                    38 (1)
Owen Turner 2, Josefa Biu, Elekana Laupola, Matt King tries;
Jarrod Grange 5 conversions; 1 penalty goal
 
defeated
Avoca Beach               15                   
Luke Sheridan, Julian Bacigalupo tries;
Dylan Cadogan 1 penalty goal;
Shaun Townsend 1 conversion
 
 
Woy Woy                   50 (1)
Fokolulu Taumalolo 2, Chris Hitch 2, Sam Soane, Corey Fleming, Hosekkaia Palaula, Alex Moore tries;
Alex Moore 3 conversions;
Fokolulu Taumalolo 2 conversions
 
defeated
The Lakes                   37 (1)
Eddie Vuniiwawa 2, Harry Pirini 2, Semisi Saitadra, Dylan Galvin, Macui Raulini tries;
Bill Moroney 1 conversion
 
 
Terrigal                       41 (1)
Ryan Metcalfe 2, Sekope Maea, Setareki Wainiqolo, Mark Koteczky, Dylan Calabria, Dan Sargeant tries;
Mark Koteczky 3 conversions
 
defeated
Gosford                       15                   
Mitch Cornwell, Josh McGlynn tries;
Josh Reid  1 conversion; 1 penalty goal
 
 
Hornsby                      16                   
Ivan Satu try;
Sam White 1 conversion, 3 penalty goals
 
defeated
Kariong                       12 (1)
Justin Walker, Cory Holwill tries;
Ryan Wallbank 1 conversion
                                     
 
PREMIER 2 (bonus points in brackets)
Ourimbah                    29 (1)  Avoca Beach   25 (1)
The Lakes                   24        Woy Woy       18 (1)
Terrigal                       10        Gosford             5 (1)
Kariong                       26 (1)  Hornsby          21 (1)                           
 
PRESIDENTS CUP (bonus points in brackets)
Ourimbah                    11        Avoca Beach   10 (1)
The Lakes                   31 (1)  Woy Woy       12
Terrigal                       50 (1)  Gosford             0         
                                                                                      
COLTS (bonus points in brackets)
Woy Woy                   29 (1)  Terriga l             7         
Warnervale                 28 (1)  Avoca Beach     8
 
WOMEN (bonus points in brackets)
Woy Woy                   20 (1)  Terrigal             0
Woy Woy                   20 (1)  Terrigal             0
Hornsby                      20 (1)  Warnervale       0
Hornsby                      20 (1)  Warnervale       0
Ourimbah                    22 (1)  Avoca Beach     5
Ourimbah                    36 (1)  Avoca Beach   14                               
 
 
REPORT :
The Central Coast Rugby Union restarted after the break for the NSW Country Championships last weekend at Warren. Players who were team mates last weekend faced up to each other yesterday as protagonists. All these representative players will be much better and stronger for their experiences at Warren.
 
The Match of the Day saw Ourimbah prove too strong for Avoca Beach and ran out winners by 38 points to 15 at Ourimbah Rugby Park. The match started off as a quite even affair but the further the match went on the home team became stronger and stronger. Ourimbah played some very good rugby in the first half and they went to the halftime break leading by 14 points to 3. At that stage both sides were certainly in the picture. However it was Ourimbah who continued to get stronger and were able to post a further 24 points in the second half. Avoca Beach had their moments but simply were unable to keep in touch with Ourimbah. Best players for Ourimbah were prop Jordan Clark, flanker Jarrod Grange, and lock Josefa Biu. Owen Turner was also able to stamp his influence on the game with two excellent tries. Avoca Beach never stopped throughout the match. Their best players were halfback Julian Bacigalupo and centre Matt Anderson. Ourimbah have in recent weeks proved they will be a threat to this competition, while Avoca Beach, although suffering their first loss of the season, will definitely trouble all teams this year.
 
The match at Woy Woy Oval saw what could be described as a minor upset when Woy Woy defeated The Lakes by 50 points to 37. It is probably not the fact that Woy Woy won but that they were able to score so many points and for it to be such a high scoring match. Woy Woy got away to a wonderful start and that was the difference between the two sides. The home side was able to lead by 19 points to nil within the space of the first 15 minutes. The Lakes were slow out of the blocks while Woy Woy were able to combine for some great tries in this early onslaught. The Lakes did respond on two occasions before halftime but so did Woy Woy, so at the break Woy Woy had a handy lead of 31 points to 10. One of these late tries by Woy Woy must rank as one of the tries of the season, with play going the length of the field with some great interchanges of passing. Best players for Woy Woy were flanker Chris Hitch and five-eight Fokolulu Taumalolo. Hitch was absolutely outstanding and was the standout player on the paddock. He was everywhere both in attack and defence, and capped off his fine performance with 2 individual tries. Others to play well for the home side were Wade Hannell, Corey Fleming and Mitch Hyde. Woy Woy scored immediately after halftime to make the score 36-10 and it appeared the match was all but over. However The Lakes then played some great rugby and were able to cross for 3 tries within the space of 6 minutes. Suddenly the score was 36 points to 27 and the visitors were definitely on a roll. However Woy Woy hit back with late tries to secure the win. It was a great game of rugby with plenty of action from start to finish. Best players for The Lakes were winger Eddie Vuniiwawa and centre Semisi Saitadra, who both were always dangerous with the ball in hand. The Lakes were able to kick only one conversion and this did make a difference. Both teams will take a lot from this match and did prove that both teams are definitely in with a chance of a semi-final spot this year.
 
Terrigal scored a convincing 41 points to 15 win over Gosford at The Haven Oval. The first half was quite an even struggle with both teams giving it their all. In fact Gosford scored first and went to an early 7 points to nil lead. However this lead was short lived and Terrigal were able to quickly square the ledger with their own converted try. Terrigal then got the better of Gosford and were able to go to the halftime break leading by 24 points to 10. It was a deserved lead but one that they had to be worked for. Best players for Terrigal were flanker Ryan Metcalfe, who crossed for 2 tries, prop Setareki Wainiqolo, and halfback Sekope Maea. The match continued in much the same vein in the second half and the home side was able to continue on and post a further 17 points to secure the comfortable victory. Terrigal remain undefeated this season and are setting the pace in the competition this year. Gosford with this loss know they must get into the winner’s circle soon if they are to reach the Finals this year.
 
Hornsby scored an upset win when they defeated Kariong at Mark Taylor Oval winning by 16 points to 12. It was a tight battle throughout. Kariong scored two tries in the first half and went to the halftime break leading by 12 points to 9. However Kariong were unable to post any further points in the second half while Hornsby were able to cross for their lone try. Once again it was a match where Kariong had scored more tries than the opposition and had lost the match. Kariong have now suffered 4 very close losses this season. They must be frustrated. It was a great result for Hornsby who have been close on many occasions in recent matches but to get their first win at home for a long time would have led to big celebrations after the match. These results this weekend show that no team in this competition can be taken for granted and the competition is building up to be one of the best in many years.  
 
The women’s 7’s competition got into full swing this weekend with the 6 teams playing their first competition matches for the season. This competition will build and build as the season progresses.
 

CENTRAL COAST COMPETE  AT THE
NSW COUNTRY CHAMPIONSHIPS IN WARREN
 
Central Coast had an enjoyable weekend in Warren at the NSW Country Championships. The Senior XV, Colts and Women’s 7’s teams put in good performances over the two days of the Championships.
The 1st XV won both their two matches to clinch the Richardson Shield. The Colts team lost both of the encounters but had an enjoyable trip, while the women won 3 of their 5 matches and were probably a little unlucky with the Draw.
 
SENIORS ….. RICHARDSON SHIELD
 
Game 1           CENTRAL COAST   v.  FAR NORTH COAST
                        Saturday, 28th April, 2018    12 noon
 
Central Coast started this match brilliantly. They were on the go forward right from the opening whistle. Within the first 8 minutes the team had crossed for two converted tries and this lead of 14 points to nil so early on what just what was needed. However FNC soon hit back and replied with their own try. However it was the Central Coast team that had most of the territory and possession in the first half. They were also turning this advantage into points on the scoreboard. The team were able to cross for a further 3 tries in the first half and they went to the halftime break leading by 33 points to 7. The match was all but secured at that stage but there was still 40 minutes to go. It was a great first half of rugby. Players such as Josefa Biu, Dylan Cadogan, Mark Koteczky, Sam White, Jarrod Grange, and halfback Matt King were all outstanding. But it was excellent team effort that saw the team get the handy lead. Far North Coast started the second half far more committed and did dominate large periods of play in the second stanza. They were able to score two converted tries early on and suddenly the Central Coast was under some pressure despite the lead. FNC got back to 33 – 21 midway through the second half but a penalty goal to Dylan Cadogan cemented the win. It was a good win, based on a wonderful first half. The team was into the Final of the Richardson Shield the following day.
 
Central Coast            36                    Josefa Biu 2, Marc Koteczky 2,
Shaun Townsend tries;
Dylan Cadogan 4 conversions, 1 penalty goal
defeated
Far North Coast        21                    3 tries, 3 conversions
 
 
 
Game 2           RICHARDSON SHIELD FINAL
CENTRAL COAST  v. WESTERN PLAINS
                        Sunday, 20th April, 2018                   11.10 am
 
Central Coast started this match brilliantly with a try within the opening 10 minutes. There was a large local crowd on hand to support their home team so it was good for the Central Coast team to score early to quieten the crowd. Central Coast dominated the early stages to such an extent that they had crossed for 2 converted tries within the opening quarter of an hour. They were continually on the go forward and Western Plains had no answer. The Central Coast team were based in opposition territory for much of the first half. The team was able to cross for a further 3 tries in the first half, the final one right on halftime. Central Coast went to the halftime break leading by 33 points to nil and the match already appeared to be over. There were some outstanding performances in the first half. None were better than lock Josefa Biu, who crossed for 4 tries in the match, halfback Matt King, inside centre Mark Koteczky, and five-eight Dylan Cadogan. Cadogan’s goal kicking obviously gave the team those extra points but also gave an extra boost in confidence to the team. Western Plains came out in the second firing on all cylinders. They crossed for an early try, and then another, to make the score at the midway point of the second half 33 points to 12. Although never getting close on the scoreboard, the Western Plains were throwing everything at the Coast team. Things settled a little when five-eight Dylan Cadogan crossed for a try in the corner soon after. Things were far more even in the second half but the first half performance by the Central Coast had secured the win. The scoreline in the second half was CC 14  WP 19 but it was all too late for the local team. It was a wonderful win by the Central Coast team, and the team now enters the top tier and will compete for the Caldwell Cup next year.
 
Central Coast            47                    Josefa Biu 4, Matt King 2, Dylan Cadogan
tries;
Dylan Cadogan 6 conversions
defeated
Western Plains          19                    3 tries, 2 conversions
 
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COLTS
 
Game 1           CENTRAL COAST   v.  CENTRAL WEST
                        Saturday, 28th            10.40 am
 
Central Coast struggled right from the kickoff in this match. Central West kicked a penalty goal in the opening couple of minutes, and then within another 5 minutes had crossed for their first try. It was not the start to Central Coast team wanted. Although territory and possession were quite even early on, it was Central West who were making all the inroads and looking the most dangerous. Lost lineouts were an issue for the Coast team all half. Central West controlled the scoreboard in the first half and went to the halftime break leading by 25 points to nil. Central West continued in the same vein in the second half, and continued to pile on the points. Central Coast had no answer. The score was 39 points to nil midway through the second half before Central Coast scored their only try. Atoni Reulu crossed for a good team try but it was all far too late. Central Coast gave it their all on the day but just could not compete. Central West scored 7 tries to one, and that was a true indication of the flow of the match. Best players for the Coast were lock Will McDonald, five-eight Mitch Leonard, winger Sean Peruch and halfback Connor Peden.
 
Central Coast   7                    Atoni Reulu try;
Connor Peden 1 conversion
lost to
Central West 44                    7 tries, 3 conversions, 1 penalty goal
 
 
Game 2           COLTS   3rd / 4th PLAYOFF
CENTRAL COAST   v.  ILLAWARRA
                        Sunday, 29th April, 2018       9 am
 
The Central Coast team played good rugby in the opening stages of the match. In fact if anything they had the better of the start of the match. They were far more fired up than the previous day and were playing some good rugby. The first half went try for try and at the halftime break the two teams were locked at 17 points all. The match was certainly up for grabs at that stage. Best players for the Central Coast were halfback Connor Peden, and wingers Adam Chettle and Luke Brown. The Central Coast did suffer a few niggling injuries at this stage and the second half saw Illawarra take control on the scoreboard. The play on the paddock remained quite even but Illawarra slipped away to win the match by 38 points to 22. It was a whole hearted effort by the Colts but they faced a tough draw and competed well especially in this their final match.
 
Central Coast            22                    Mitch Leonard, Matthew Martin,
Adam Chettle tries;
                                                            Luke Brown 2 conversions, 1 penalty goal
lost to
Illawarra                    38                    6 tries, 4 conversions
 
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The Women 7’s had a wonderful campaign. The team played 5 matches over the 2 days, winning 3. They were the unlucky team at the Championships but did play very good rugby. The team finished 5th at the Championships and performed very well. Two very close losses on the first day prevented them from reaching the semi-finals on Day 2.
 
 
WOMEN 7’s
 
Central Coast              15        Central North              17
Central Coast                5        Central West               12
Central Coast              20        Western Plains              0
Central Coast              17        New England              10
Central Coast              44        Western Plains              0


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CONCLUSION :
It was a mixed weekend for Central Coast Rugby Union results wise. The Seniors, with their victory in the Richardson Shield, move back into the Caldwell Cup competition. The Colts will remain in Tier 1 despite their two losses. Both teams were a credit to Central Coast Rugby, and the coaching staff of both teams did an excellent job. The Women 7’s team competed very well, and with a trifle more luck could have made the semi-finals.
 
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NSW COUNTRY SELECTIONS …….
SENIORS :
Mark KOTECZKY                 Terrigal
Elekana LAUPOLA                Ourimbah
Sekope MAEA                        Terrigal
Ethan McINNES                     Terrigal
Kevin McNAMARA              Terrigal
 
COLTS :
Will McDONALD                  Terrigal
 
WOMENS :
Angela MARANDO               Hornsby