The Asquith Magpies finals juggernaut continues as they earned their way into the Ron Massey Cup Grand Final against the minor premiers Mounties at Pirtek Stadium this Sunday. Asquith defeated a gallant Windsor Wolves 32-30 in a game of epic proportions to set up a tantalising premiership showdown with the competition heavyweights.
It was a high-scoring thriller that featured plenty of highlights and went down to the wire. Asquith centre Jeco Makatoa was sent to the sin bin for dissent and once he returned, had a blinder of a game showing his hand in most of the tries.
Asquith fullback Jack Hawkins was outstanding – his performance included a double and his goal kicking was on song as he kicked a perfect six from six, most of which were from the sideline. Both kickers must have been practising throughout the week because Wolves’ five-eighth, Aaron Farkas, converted all five of his goals as well.
Asquith’s Captain, Aaron Groom, was absolutely elated that his team never gave up and was very happy that they went one better than last year and will feature in the Grand Final.
“It doesn’t matter who we face, we are confident in ourselves and as a team we can get the job done,” Groom said.
“The boys never gave up which is full credit to them. We finally got there after just missing out last year and most importantly we played the full 80 minutes that was our game plan.”
In a bruising and tight tussle riddled by errors the minor premiers of 2015, Mounties, will go to their second consecutive Grand Final after defeating the Wentworthville Magpies 12-2 in a tough defensive display. Mounties will be looking to make up for lost time after being beaten in last year’s Grand Final by the Entrance Tigers.
Wentworthville held a two-nil lead for 65 minutes until their defence cracked and Gus Aiga from Mounties found the chalk. Mounties secured the win three minutes from full-time with a try to Dave Cahalane.
Mounties have had an incredible season so far winning the Minor Premiership by topping the leader-board with 40 competition points and finishing 12 points clear of the top four.
Dave Cahalane was over the moon that the Mounties will feature in a Grand Final once again.
“It’s great we have worked all year for it and to make it, one more to go, unbelievable. The boys are pumped,” Cahalane said.
“We have put in a big effort all year and we have a good bunch of blokes we are all really close and hopefully we can get the job done.”
Cahalane scored the winning try and was impressed by his side’s determination saying: “It was really good; it was a real tough defensive game,” Cahalane added.
It’s sure to be a riveting Ron Massey Cup Grand Final between two quality sides. Gates open at 11:20am this Sunday at Pirtek Stadium. Make sure you get there early to catch the whole day’s action.
The NSWRL Grand Final day, held at Pirtek Stadium on Sunday, September 27, is the biggest day on the VB NSW Cup, Ron Massey Cup and Sydney Shield calendars and the only live rugby league in Sydney that weekend – and adult tickets are just $10, with kids under 12 free! With face painting, live music and a carnival-like atmosphere, it’s the perfect day out for young and old.Get your tickets here.
