Gosford 25 - Wheatley 10

The last time these two teams met Gosford were the successful side. Wheatley were determined to put the defeat behind them and win

It was a near perfect day for rugby, the sun was shining, Wheatley were full of enthusiasm to continue the fluidity and good execution shown during the week at training.

As the players stepped onto the well kept pitch, it became obvious the wind was going to be a factor with Wheatley using the toss to gain advantage of the elements. Despite having the advantage, Gosford came out the blocks with some early pressure in Wheatley’s twenty-two. Wheatley were happy to concede only three points after some strong defending.

As usual it took Wheatley some time to get a rhythm into the game. After some solid forward play of attacking the side of the rucks, space opened up on the blind side for second row Banton Wong to charge down the wing straightening up to give Fullback Agius a clear run to the corner to make it 5-3. Conversion unsuccessful.

Wheatley continued to put pressure on Gosford opening up some space for top try scorer Muir to burst down the touch line and score in the corner. The conversion was unsuccessful but the score stood at 10-3 going into half time.

The tide changed in the second half, Wheatley were put under a lot of pressure from Gosford fly half who had one hell of a boot on him. With Wheatley struggling to keep possession, which in turn lead to a lack of continuity and build up, Gosford changed their game to attack off set plays. With an increased amount of line outs and possession it was only a matter of time until Gosford crossed the white wash.

Gosford slotted a drop goal after some solid build up plays from both sides but this showed the momentum started to swing in Gosford’s favor. Gosford’s accurate kicking kept them camped well inside Wheatley’s half resulting in an unconverted try bringing the score to 18-10.

Going into the last ten minutes Wheatley showed some good old fashioned heart, they didn’t give up and executed some great attacking moves but Gosford had the upper hand on fitness and momentum which ended with a last minute interception try closing the game at 25-10.

Overall, both sides will agree a great game of rugby with some sexy attacking moves, well executed game plans and a lot of passion.

Wheatley now look forward to Sundays Shield Final against Blue Boar.

Man of match goes to flanker Dan Bland, who as usual had similar characteristics to Poverty. (Was everywhere)

Dick of day – Coach Brooks for locking his car keys in his car making him late to the game, or Poochie who decided not to catch.

Words - Luke Agius