Picture by MIKE SHEAN
The final four in the Group Six Rugby League Pre-Season competition have been decided, after the second round of matches, which were held on Friday night.
The competition was held at two venues, with Thirlmere Sportsground and Dudley Chesham Oval, The Oaks hosting the matches, before the finalists were decided for the shortened format.
Picton Magpies met Oakdale at Thirlmere in the first of the double header matches, with the Magpies enjoying a week off, and being able to rest several key players for their season ahead.
The Magpies didn’t look like they missed their key players, as they dominated a disappointing Oakdale outfit, leading 18-0 at halftime, before going on to record a 28-0 victory, and securing their place in the final four.
At the same time, arch rivals and local neighbours Camden and Narellan met at The Oaks, with the Jets recording a 34-12 win over the Rams.
The second of the matches at Thirlmere saw the Roosters meet Appin, and a low scoring affair ensued, with only one try being recorded in the first 25 minutes of play, going to the home side.
The play opened up in the second half, with the locals recording a hard fought 16-12 win over the Dogs, who made life difficult for the teams they’ve faced, and look like another tough proposition when the season begins on March 21-22.
The simultaneous match at The Oaks featured the local Tigers and Mittagong. Neither side could be separated on the scoreboard at fulltime, with the scores locked at 4-4. Mittagong progressed having scored the opening try of the match, under the competition rules.
The four winners will meet on Friday night at Kirkham Park, Camden, with the action to begin at 6.30pm. Picton will meet Mittagong in the opening match, before Narellan faces Thirlmere in the second semi final at 7.30pm. The winners will progress to the final, which is scheduled for an 8.30pm start.
MIKE SHEAN
