Despite losing 30–0 to Queanbeyan Blues in their semi-final of the 2017 Canberra Region Rugby League (CRRL) season on August 27, the Yass Magpies have plenty of positives from the season.
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After trailing 12–0 early within the first 10 minutes, Yass fought their way back into the match with some strong completion rates and field possession, but they were unlucky not to have converted their effort into points.
Blues captain-coach Terry Campese converted a penalty goal to extend the lead 14–0. Blues prop Aaron McInnes added another try to the tally when he barraged his way over the line before he had to limp off the field with a lower leg injury in the second half.
Stunned from the first half, Yass fought their way back into the grind before Campese once again broke the deadlock with a chip for Thomas Ruediger before a try from Brendon Taueki on his return from injury made the score 30-0.
The loss sees Yass denied a chance to replicate their feats from 2006, while the Blues will attempt to win their third premiership in four seasons next Sunday.
Captain-coach Steve Naughton said despite the loss, the team can still be proud of the season.
“Obviously we’re disappointed with the results, but it was still a great effort from the boys to make the finals. We’ll look back on this and learn from it,” Naughton said.
The Magpies now has the off-season before gearing up for training in early 2018.
Open women’s side excels
In the women’s open tackle, Yass also went up against Goulburn but lost 10–18 for a place in the grand final.
Gab Suckling and Nicole Pasparne scored tries while Shannon Wright secured one conversion and player of the match.
The team has praised the players for their first season.
“Sadly this means end of season for the first open women's league team. We thank our committed coaches, managers, staff, sponsors and supporters,” it said on Facebook.
Meanwhile in the reserves grade, they finished fourth for the season and the under 18s in seventh.
The Girlpies finished third after going down 12–4 to Goulburn on August 27.
In a statement, club management thanked its supporters for a strong season.
“Our sport wouldn’t be accessible without the altruistic committed coaches, managers, committee members, game-day assistants, volunteers, sponsors and supportive community.”
“Thank you – your involvement is appreciated and doesn’t go unnoticed,” the club said.
