ON THE RUN: James Revie looks to pass for the Gropers.
CRASHING THROUGH: Gropers’ Ben Christie is tackled. Pictures: Lisa Le Gros
THE Margaret River Gropers rugby team put up a mighty fight against reigning premiers the Bunbury Bulls on Saturday, but were outclassed, going down 26–7.
Despite the result, it was actually the Gropers who dominated much of the game. The local boys were caught off guard early as the Bulls took all their chances scoring three tries in the first half.
The Gropers showed great tenacity to work their way back into the game and were rewarded with a great team try scored by the young powerhouse Josh Wedd.
The Gropers continued to assert themselves but despite their dominance lacked the finishing touch required to breach the Bulls’ solid defence.
It was another frustrating day for the Gropers who again showed passages of the brilliance they are capable of, only to be let down by some poor handling errors and mistakes. Ben Christie put in another colossal effort and was the day’s best back.
Gypsy was powerful at the breakdown making many metres with his trademark pick and drive and was awarded best forward.
Ralph was best on ground thanks to a huge defensive effort that took the sting out of the much larger Bunbury pack.
It is only a matter of time until the errors and mistakes that have plagued the Gropers are expunged from the club and the Gropers machine again asserts itself on the South West competition.
The Gropers have a bye this week but will be back in action at Nippers Oval on July 14. The boys will be training hard on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6.30pm. Anyone interested is encouraged to come to training or call Tristan on 0427 755 334.
– Tristan Moore