Narrabri’s Daniel Howe charges through the North Tamworth defence of (from left) Shaquille Ervine, Lyall Houghton and Jarryd Waters in the under 18s minor semi. Photo: Grant Robertson 050812GRB29
NARRABRI finished in front for the day while Moree and Farrer were also winners in the Group 4 lower grade minor semi-finals at Wee Waa on Sunday.
With Narrabri thrashing Wee Waa in the first grade, the Blues finished the day with a 2-1 record following a loss to the second graders and a win in the under 18s.
The Blues 18s were in thorough control of their game against North Tamworth.
They led 16-nil at halftime and went on to post a 38-4 success to the delight of coach Tom Mason.
“Defensively we dominated,” Mason said.
“We won the ruck.
“Our composure was mostly pretty good and all the things we trained for were strong.
“We were good in the wrestle.
“We wanted to get numbers in there.
“It’s good to see it come out on the field.”
Matt Gordon scored the last two tries of the day and was one of the stronger runners, along with Daniel Howe.
Mason says his pack is pretty handy.
“Our forward pack is one of the best,” he said. “Our forwards and halves work well together.
“We did all the little one per centers well, like catch and pass and hands and knees.
“The spirit is good among the boys and we come back in two weeks’ time.
“It’s more about preparing mentally because all the physical stuff, the strength, the fitness, we can’t do anything more now.
“Whether we play Gunnedah or Wests it’ll take a big effort.”
West and Gunnedah have been the standouts this season and will meet in the major semi on Sunday at Scully Park.
The earlier game wasn’t so good for Narrabri as Moree stormed home to win the reserves 22-20.
The Boars were behind most of the game but put their noses in front with about 10 minutes to go and held on.
They will play the loser of the major semi between North and West in the final.
In the under 16s, Farrer was too good for West.
The green and golds won 46-22, with Country Under 16s fullback Callum Hayne scoring four tries.
They survive to meet either Gunnedah or Narrabri in the final in two weeks.
