Cessnock Goannas disappointing in loss to Macquarie Scorpions

The Goannas went into the game knowing that a win – although a month out from the finals – would almost assure them of an all-important top three spot, so there was plenty to play for.

The Scorpions opened the scoring in the fifth minute when they put a kick in behind the Goanna defence to cross out wide for a 4-0 lead.

The Goannas completely dominated the next 20 minutes and came up with two tries of their own.

The first was scored by Brendan Hlad when he supported a great Geordie Connelly break, and Willie Heta added the extras.

Then in the next set, Jared Edwards scored out wide after chasing a bomb from Heta to take the lead to 10-6.

Macquarie scored next, following on from a dropped ball to level the scores at the 20-minute mark.

The game was even until a minute from half-time when the Scorpions received a penalty and scored in the next set. They converted as the hooter sounded for a 16-10 lead.

At the break Goannas coach Craig Miller was critical of the team’s poor ball security and failure to defend their errors, and asked for more intensity in their defence.

Macquarie were first to score after the break and went to a 22-10 lead, and kicked a penalty shortly after to take the game further out of Cessnock’s reach.

More errors put the Goannas under pressure and the Scorpions scored again.

Heta crossed for a consolation try and converted, and Macquarie scored the final points for a full time score of 36-16.

Players’ player went to outstanding young front rower Noah Easton, while Shaun Metcalf and Reed Hugo also played well.

Reserve grade continued their climb up the ladder with a hard-fought 26-16 win.

Cessnock’s tries were scored by Jade Antcliffe (two), Dylon Edwards, Zeb Dunstan and Kori Barber, who made a welcome return after his adventure playing in the English league.

Brent Mendyke kicked three goals and was named players’ player, others to play well were Sam Wilson, Oliver Powell and Dean Wearing.

Open age achieved their second win of the season with an impressive 32-14 victory.

Tries were scored by Jarrod Harris (two), Arch Dunstan, Rhys Binns, Jason Smith and Bailey Bromage with Bromage kicking four goals.

Players’ player went to Harris, and the whole team performed well with Ryan Evans, Jake Russell and Josh Nitz being the stand-outs.

This week the Goannas have another week off with the dysfunctional draw.

The following Saturday (August 8) they will play Souths at home. It will be the Goannas’ annual family day with activities for children. More details next week.