Jono Oliver works hard in defence. Photos by Andrew McLean Photography.
Photo by
Andrew McLean Photography
The Deniliquin Blue Heelers Rugby League Club teamsfaced a tough afternoon in Ivanhoe on Saturday.
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Both the women’s and men’s sides met well‑drilled outfits in heavy, rain‑affected conditions.
Despite the scoreboard, the visitors’ effort was again a highlight, particularly in the women’s match where Deniliquin held their own for long stretches against the top‑of‑the‑table Hens.
Ivanhoe eventually pulled away to win 22‑0, with Aimee McGuckin crossing twice for the home side.
Deniliquin’s defensive commitment and willingness to keep working in the wet were noted by officials.
The men’s match followed a similar pattern, with Deniliquin reduced to 12 players and forced to match Ivanhoe in a 12‑on‑12 contest.
The Roosters took advantage of their deeper bench and struck early, but Deniliquin hit back before halftime to trail 24‑4 at the break.
“We were down 24-4 at half-time and finished 58-10, but the boys kept at it,” Heelers captain/coach Drew Hinkley said.
“Despite being down a few players, the guys worked hard.
“They couldn’t get through the mids early, but we managed to hit back a few times, getting the ball in hand and moving it around.
“I think those tries show that we are showing good progression.”
The second half opened up when Ivanhoe’s pace out wide began to tell, though Deniliquin still managed to add a second try.
Roosters fullback Owen Whyman proved the difference, finishing with a hattrick and four goals.
While the trip to Ivanhoe did not deliver competition points, Deniliquin’s attitude across both grades was praised.
Players are continuing to compete hard despite the conditions, the reduced numbers and the quality of the opposition.
The club now turns its attention to Saturday, where they will be facing the Barellan Rams at Hillston.
They will be looking to regroup and build on the positives shown in patches throughout last week’s matches.
Last time the women’s team faced Barellan, the Rams were forced to forfeit due to a lack of numbers.
In the men’s, Hinkley is hoping for a better result than the 66-nil result from their last meeting.
“It’s our first time playing in Hillston as a club, so there’s a bit of excitement around that,” he said.
Results from other Proten Community Cup Rugby League matches in round three:
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