The Magpies led 16-6 at the break with the highlight being five-eighth Craig Irwin’s ‘show and go’ effort from 40 metres out for a brilliant solo try. Prop Ben Potts and winger Corey Elphick also got on the scorer’s list and things were looking good for the home team.

The Magpies scored early in the second half through a try to half Matt Barnden before the Bulldogs gave their supporters some hope with a try to trail 20-10. The Magpies however never let them get any closer with Tony Worthy and Kyle Danilczak scoring four pointers before Irwin grabbed a second right on full time.

The major feature of the Magpies performance is the fitness of the team compared to the majority of Yass sides of the past. They also look like a team that actually trains together, which is another unusual aspect for Magpies reserve grade teams.

The forwards really laid the platform for the win with Potts and Steve Greenwood leading the way up front with the rest following. The transformation of Greenwood over the last few years from a gangly winger to a forward leader has been remarkable. It won’t surprise me if has a run in the top grade before the season is out.

Barnden was very impressive in combination with Irwin in the halves, while hooker Ben Griffin and skipper Worthy were also stand outs in a good team effort.

Yass Magpies 38 [Irwin 2, Potts, Elphick, Barnden, Worthy, Danilczak Tries, Sparnon 5 goals] def Goulburn Bulldogs 16.