The Deniliquin Drovers play host to Wagga Ag College at home tomorrow after a solid first match in the Southern Riverina Rugby Union competition last weekend.
Coach Joe Gogarty said the Drovers had a great showing in their first game together as a team, but ultimately went down 46-19 to the Wagga Waratahs.
Scores were locked at seven-all until the 20 minute mark in a highly contested first half.
“We put a bit of pressure on ourselves by not exiting well out of our 22, therefore turning over possession close to our goal line and the Waratahs scored two tries,” Gogarty said.
“We came back with a fantastic backline try from our 40 to score under the post, with a half-time score of 24-14.”
New recruit Kitione Serusavou scored both first half tries for the Drovers, taking the team into the second half with confidence.
“The game was pretty tight for the first 20 minutes of the second half with a try apiece. Joseva Batimoko scored the try for the Drovers, and Marist Viliamu converted two tries.
“The Waratahs scored another two tries late in the game to win 46-19.
“We definitely left two tries out there but overall I was very happy with how the team, who have never played together before, performed on and off the paddock.”
Flanker Eugheino Maitiro scored three votes for best on ground, followed by outside centre Kitione Seruisavou with two votes, and one going to the hooker Kalivati Lala.
Gogarty said this week’s game will see a very young and fit Aggies side to come to Deni, after their close loss to Tumut last week.
“They’ll be looking to rebound. Hopefully we will have a couple of second row forwards who missed last week’s game available this week. We will definitely have a size advantage in the forwards, however we need to try and match their fitness and mobility.”
Gogarty said the Drovers’ set piece will need to improve if they are to get good quality ball to their impressive backline.
“The group is quite focussed on playing more time together and we will be happy if we show improvement with each game.
“I am looking forward to trying out a few new combinations and I think the game will be a cracker for all who turn up to support the new looking Drovers.”
Gogarty said it is very important for the club to have plenty of support, aiming to make Rotary Park a ‘fortress for the season’.
A fully licensed bar and barbecue on the sideline at Bar 22 will be open for supporters. The game kicks off at 3.15pm.