Big win for Hay Cutters over Deniliquin Drovers

By Tom Lilburne.

Cutters started the 2024 season with an away game against Deniliquin Drovers.

The boys loaded into the bus and drove the shortest distance for an away game in the SIRU competition.

With a few new faces spattered amongst the seasoned players of last year’s premiership side, not much had changed as Cutters took on Drovers with a strong opener to the season.

The first half had Hay sorting out their style with a new player finding their role on the field. Rupert Lilburne moved to 13 as the dynamics of the team shifted with some players missing on Saturday.

The backs quickly adjusted and were moving the ball well through the hands against a much larger Drovers forward’s side.

Capitalising on this, the ball was spread out to Ollie Cameron. Returning for his third year, he was the first to get points on the boards for Cutters in 2024.

Ollie has talent for scoring tries on the wing with his quick legs.

Lochie Ireson struck fear into the Drovers forwards as he eagerly took the ball forward up the middle, and was the second to cross the line in the first half.

Harry Agar continued his role as conversion kicker with half at half time. Half time saw an impressed coaching side comprising of again Matt Ireson and Ed Lilburne.

Simpleness and grit were encouraged for the opening game from coaches, who were happy with sides fitness and given the lack of team runs due to players spread over the region. Second half saw a resilient Cutters side finishing how they started.

The forwards dominate again, with Captain Ben Ryan leading from the front. He led the charge and never missed a word of encouragement to his boys.

The second half saw scores hold, the only budge when Ollie Cameron crossed for his second of the day which saw out the game at 17-0. Points went to Conargo debutant players Angus Knox and Tom Rafferty, one and two, with try machine Ollie Cameron taking home the three points.

Players’ player went to returning utility player Angus Helps, a handy bloke who can slot in where needed on game day. Cutters will rest themselves with a bye next weekend, training on Saturday for those boys around town.

Cutters welcome the town to their ‘Ladies Night’ in two weeks’ time as they take on Griffith Blacks under lights on May 10 at 7:30 pm.

Early bird tickets available via link on social media page. Cutters defeat Drovers 17-0 (tries Ollie Cameron 2, Lochie Ireson 1, conversions 1/3 Harry Agar).

The Hay Cutters have started their 2024 season off well, with a win against the Deniliquin Drovers. Image: Supplied.