The Ray White Noosa Dolphins go into the second round of the season just two points behind ladder leaders University on a crowded Sunshine Coast Rugby Union Premiership table. With a bye last weekend, the Dolphins position was always under threat with results elevating Maroochydore and Caloundra to match Noosa on 19 points, however the superior for and against of the Dolphins keeps them ahead. Adding to the pressure to all three clubs are Brothers and Wynnum 2 and 3 points behind respectively.
This Saturday, the Dolphins head to Maroochydore for the annual John Curry Shield clash, a match that has always held a special place between the two clubs. Following the one-point win to the Swans in the wet in the season’s opening round, both clubs will be desperate to gain the advantage on the premiership table with a victory. With the Dolphins injury list added to following the loss of damaging centre Gideon Kautai with a leg injury, coach Jim McKay is up for another backline shuffle and will be looking forward to the return of Ben Rogers and Josh Munro in coming weeks. On a positive, the senior squad will be bolstered by the return of former A Grade Captain Will Christie having just competed two seasons in England, bringing with him the experience and direction that will be needed in the tight competition.
A Grade Ladder midway of the season:
University 21
Noosa 19
Maroochydore 19
Caloundra 19
Brothers 17
Wynnum 16
Caboolture 4
Last Friday night saw the Dolphins head to Nambour to take on the undefeated Toads. The depleted Ray White Noosa team was brave in the face of the big Nambour side going down 60-10. With no reserves bench to assist, the Dolphins were soon at an even bigger disadvantage with two early match ending injuries. Despite a difficult night, coach Digger Munro was very proud of his young charges and the never give up attitude they displayed. “We were up against a very experienced side, with 23 players to call upon, and they just kept coming at us. Despite the scoreline, our boys stuck in there. The club is very proud of these lads,” Munro said. Impressing coaching staff, prop Jack Murray was named the KB Player of the match ably supported by Jack Austin always threatening in the centres.
The Friday night team returns home this week when they take on Maroochydore.
This Weekend
Friday Night (Noosa), 7.30pm
Saturday (Maroochydore)
• A Grade 3.30pm
• Res Grade 2pm
Check out the Dolphins Facebook site for all the up to date information.
