Kootingal-Moonbi remained undefeated after a late solo try and a late try-saving tackle by fullback Anthony Smith saw the Roosters win an absorbing arm wrestle 22-20 against the Magpies at Werris Creek on Saturday.
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There was some anticipation heading into the match, and the product was as good as expected – probably better.
With little separating the sides and the lead changing several times, Smith, a key weapon in the Roosters’ armoury, delivered potent attacking and defensive efforts to get the visitors the win and extend their unbeaten run to four in the Group 4 second division.
First the slightly built No.1 produced a jinking 15m solo effort to score under the posts – the conversion by halfback Ryan Martin reversing a 20-16 deficit.
Then Smith took out Magpies winger Michael Saunders in a ball-and-all tackle as the flyer skirted the left touchline and was tantalising close to the tryline, the mighty effort’s exclamation mark the raised flag signifying Saunders had been taken into touch.
There were groans from the Werris Creek bench, and there would be no more counter attacks.
The unpalatable situation Magpies coach Ron Dellar did not want to happen had occurred: his side slipped six points behind the Roosters on the ladder.
Kootingal-Moonbi led 16-12 at halftime.
