The Goannas and Bulldogs emerged with one win each in their local derby clashes at Kurri Kurri Sportsground on Saturday.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Cessnock's women claimed their first win of the season in the bottom of the table Blues Tag clash with Kurri Kurri, running out narrow 18-16 winners.
The thrilling game was just the tonic for Covid-weary footy fans.
The Bulldogs under-19s recorded their first win of the season beating Macquarie Scorpions 16-10.
In reserve grade, the Bulldogs accounted for Cessnock 22-4 to jump to fourth on the ladder, equal on points with Western Suburbs (second) and South Newcastle (third) on six points.
Wyong Roos are on top of the table with eight points.
Cessnock's reserves have one win from the season to sit above the winless Maitland.
TOP FOUR BATTLE
Fresh from the bye, Cessnock's first grade team will be aiming to consolidate third place on the ladder when the travel to take on Lakes United at Cahill Oval on Sunday.
The Goannas have a two wins from their three games and could have quite easily had a 100 per cent record if they could have delivered the killer blow against second-placed South Newcastle in round two.
Cessnock had two tries disallowed in the final frenetic 15 minutes and had several chances to seal the game.
They learned their lesson, however, and grabbed the points with a thrilling 22-18 win against Wests on the bell.
Liam Foran was best afield for the second week in a row in the win and gave the young Goannas direction in the absence of halfback Tyler Randall who will hopefully be available for selection this week.
Brayden Musgrove also had an enormous game in the centres, playing for the first time in the black and gold since his return from the Newcastle Knights.
Cessnock have added some valuable experience to the team with former Bulldog and Maitland junior Ngangarra Barker and former Pickers centre Josh Griffiths who scored the winning try against the Rosellas.
Coach Todd Edwards will be keen to secure all five players' signatures for the 2021 season.
However, the most pleasing aspect of the season has been the ongoing development of the Goannas' young talent.
"Again, this year is not about winning comps, it's about development of some kids who are probably getting exposed 12 months earlier than expected. They are holding their gloves up and that's all you can ask," Edwards said.
Cessnock first grade kicks off at 3pm, reserves at 1.30pm and Blues Tag has the bye. Kurri Kurri reserves plays Souths at Townson Oval on Saturday from 3pm, under-19s at 1.45pm and Blues Tag at 12.30pm