Cutters move up the ladder
Image: Margie McClelland
Wagga City fronted Hay with a strong team, being one of the top of the table leaders in the competition. The Cutters started well attacking the Wagga City try line. However, they were unable to cross the line to score. Wagga city had a fast winger who crossed over for the first try to lead 7-0.
The return of Andrew Garvey and some new players keen to have a run, Hay had a full team & bench. The first try by Hay was off a strong run by Andrew Garvey. With the Cutter’s regular kicker Harry Agar away counting sheep, Rory Walsh (prop) stepped up and took over the goal kicking for the day with great results. With the score at 7 all, and a penalty right in front of the goal posts Captain Will Nadin decided to take the 3 points with Rory Walsh kicking the goal for the Cutters to lead 10 – 7.
Hay was next to score in the corner with James Harrison playing on the wing sprinting to the line and managing to stay in touch with the opposition's desperate chase. Rory Walsh converted a difficult shot at goal to push the lead to 17-7. Wagga City scored just before half time; Hay had defended well but couldn’t stop a determined run to the line. Wagga City converted with the score going into the break 17-14. Alex Ritalau at fullback showed some exciting ball running and returning several kicks up the field.
Will Nadin was next to score, after Wagga City’s defence dropped off with a clear run to the line, the conversion took the score to 24-14. Ben Ryan was throwing well into the lineouts and Will Marshall calling the line shots as to where to throw the ball, gave the backs plenty of good ball. James Lott caught the ball well from the kick offs, took it up to the opposition, and gained good meters on many occasions. The next try was to Hay by Peter Nadin who had another strong game at outside centre.
The Cutters’ backs frustrated the opposition in defence and turned it on in attack. The conversion narrowly missed and took the score to 29-14. Wagga City hit back with a strong run but James Harrison stopped a certain try with a great chase and tackle. The Cutters’ final try was after a solid tackle by Peter Nadin causing the ball to dislodge and this was quickly picked up by Will Nadin who sprinted to the try line. Rory Walsh converted blowing the score out to 36-14.Wagga City tried to fight back but only managing one more try and conversion taking the final score to 36-21.
The game was an exciting spectacle and the crowd commented that it was an entertaining game to watch. Hay has moved to the second position on the ladder. It was a good team effort, and the Cutters are playing a great style of Rugby. Points were awarded to 3 Rory Walsh, 2 James Lott, 1 Alex Ritalua, and Players Player Jack Lawrence.
Next week the Cutters come up against Griffith at Hay No 1 Oval at 6 pm.
