Tony Worthy
The Yass Magpies reserve’s surge towards the finals continued at the weekend, with a commanding 38-20 victory over the Tuggeranong Bushrangers.
The Magpies always looked to have the previously fourth-placed Bushrangers measure, but the visitors kept hanging in there and made Yass work hard for its win.
Yass began the match strongly and raced to a 16-0 lead mid-way through the half. The Bushrangers steadied and played some good football to post two tries to make it 16-8 at the break.
In a similar fashion to the first grade match, the Magpies lifted the tempo of the game during the second half, scoring two early tries to lead 26-8. Tuggeranong tried to overcome the deficit, but Yass were never seriously threatened and walked away with a seven tries to four win.
The Magpies forwards were the cornerstone of the victory, with Adam Waters, Ben Spencer, Tyler Woo and Brad Wylie all having big games.
In the backs, Chris Rawlinson looked all class while Martin Hawker continued his good form.
After an ordinary start to the year, Yass now find themselves closing in on the top four. Seven sides can make it so the Magpies just have to keep winning.
Yass Magpies 38 (Hawker, Castles, Schofield, Waters, Wylie, Davis, Reardon tries, Rawlinson five goals) def Tuggeranong Bushrangers 20
Under 18s
The Yass Magpies under 18s had a day they would rather forget at the weekend, as they were beaten easily, 22-6.
The Magpies matched it with the Bushrangers for the majority of the first half and only a try on the bell had Tuggeranong in front 12-6 at the break.
The second half Yass just couldn’t get into the game as they squandered possession at crucial stages.
In Yass’ defence, the Bushrangers are leading the competition but are beatable. If Yass could learn to hang onto the ball and mount some pressure, they could easily beat them. Unfortunately, ball security hasn’t been a feature of the Magpies game and they will continue to do it hard until they address it.
Best for the Magpies was easily Josh Hall who was everywhere in attack and defence. Tim Regan looked dangerous in attack on occasions and Mick Spencer worked hard up front.
Tuggeranong Bushrangers 22 def Yass Magpies 6 (Regan try, goal)
The Magpies first and reserves have a bye this weekend, with 18s heading over to Bungendore to take on the Tigers. The top two grades will be back in action the following week when they travel to West Belconnen to take on the Warriors.
