The Monaro Open Men’s side is through to the grand final, while the Open Women’s side fell just short in Country Championships semi-final action over the weekend.
Open Men’s
The Monaro Colts Men’s side is through to next weekend’s decider after a strong 18-10 win over the Central Coast Roosters at Seiffert Oval on Sunday.
In wet conditions, two tries to Monaro in the second half sealed the win for the side.
The Roosters scored first, with their centre barging over the try-line for a try and halfback Cameron Davies successfully converting for a 6-0 lead.
Colts center Jake Wheeler scored next near the sideline just before half-time. Captain Terry Campese levelled the scores at 6-6 at the break, after a successful sideline conversion.
Wheeler got his second try of the day just five minutes after the break, crossing the try-line after a great run-around play by Campese. Another successful conversion by Campese gave his side a 12-6 lead.
Monaro extended their lead to 18-6 with prop Bradley Prior barging over the line at close-range, and Campese adding the extras.
The Roosters got one try back through their winger Jack Frasca, but it wasn’t enough as the Colts held on for victory.
Open Women’s
The Monaro Colts Women’s side fell just short in their semi-final clash, going down 12-8 to the Riverina Bulls at Seiffert Oval on Sunday.
Bulls second rower Natasha Clemson opened the scoring for Riverina, giving her side an early 4-0 lead.
Monaro hit back in the 24th minute, with five-eighth Ahlivia Ingram breaking through the defensive line to plant the ball down for a try. The scores remained locked 4-4 at half-time.
The Colts hit the lead in the second half after a great pass from halfback Hollie Massey allowed prop Samara Afele to crash her way over the try-line, with the Colts leading 8-4.
But two consecutive tries to Riverina sealed the win for the side, with five-eighth Jessie Carter and centre Tess Staines both scoring.
Photo by Trisha Sullivan
