Recap

Strong start hits a wall against Wests

By Chris Gordon

It was a massive turnaround for the Dirty Twos – from losing 62-0 last week to Uni-Norths to leading all game until the 41st minute, but the dream ending wasn’t quite there yet as Wests Lions ran out winners 24-13.

In his 150th game, skipper Brandon Courts notched up a penalty goal just three minutes into the game. Seven minutes later, Emiliano Kolofale added a try that Courts duly diverted and the Reds were dominating.

Wests added a try 22 minutes into the game but a second penalty goal gave the Dirty Twos a comfortable 13-5 lead at the break.

Back on deck and Wests quickly got to the task of turning the beat around. The Lions produced three second half tries, the first closing to within one point of Goulburn, and the second creating a slender four point lead. The third try, midway through the second half stretched the lead to 24-13 which would be the final score.

At all times, Goulburn were entirely in the game. Their first half defensive performance in swamp-like conditions in their own quarter was especially praiseworthy.

It was a disappointing outcome for the Goulburn squad given the lead they’d held for much of the game. A win was absolutely within reach, but even so, the continued improvement each week is placing the side in a very strong position going forward.

Next weekend both men’s sides have the bye, while the women will take on Uni Norths at Griffith Oval.

Wests 24 bt Goulburn 13 (Emiliano Kolofale try, Brandon Courts conversion + 2 penalty goals).

• Above photo and below gallery courtesy Peter Oliver Imagery. 

Best & Fairest Points

3 – Justin Thompson
2 – Brandon Courts
1 – Hamish Baird

Players’ Players

Brandon Courts & Justin Thompson

By the Clock

3 mins – Brandon Courts Penalty goal (3-0)
10 mins – Emiliano Kolofale try, Courts conv (10-0)
22 mins – Wests try (10-5)
30 mins – Courts penalty goal (13-5)

37 mins – Wests conv. try (13-12)
41 mins – Wests try (13-17)
17 mins – Wests conv. try (13-24)