Reversing an 18-point deficit against the unbeaten Warriors side was always going to be a tough task, but one that proved not impossible for a gallant Mounties outfit in Round 7 of the Intrust Super Premiership NSW.
Down 22-4 at the half-time break, the hosts rallied to score five second-half tries, one of which was a late four-pointer to fullback Zac Santo – leaving a conversion attempt at the feet of five-eighth Isaac John to level the scores.
“There were no nerves, it was close enough for me to be confident in the kick, and good enough to go over,” John told NSWRL.com.au with a smile post-match.
“There was definitely a change of attitude heading into the second half, we got familiar with the way they were playing and found a way to turn it around.”
“Considering the way that we started, it was a pretty good result. Not all draws have the same feeling about them, I bet they’re feeling a bit more disappointed than we are.
The 30-all draw leaves Mounties in third, still just having suffered the one defeat inside seven weeks this season.
Arriving at the club ahead of the 2017 campaign getting underway, John said he’s settling into the rhythms out west, after an unfruitful year on the Northern Beaches with Manly last season.
“My own form has been a bit up and down in recent weeks, but I think that will continue to get better as we get more familiar with each other,” John said.
“I’m just really happy to be at Mounties, it’s a great club. Coming from a full-time to a part-time system, and not noticing much difference, it’s been good.
“I just want to play good footy, and to enjoy that again. That’s the goal.”
Mounties will gear up to face Illawarra in Round 8, the first time the sides have met since the 2016 Intrust Super Premiership NSW Grand Final.
