A mixed bag for the Ray White Noosa Dolphins last Saturday with the A Grade bowing out of the Finals race, the Women gaining immediate entry to Grand Final and the Reserve Grade heading to Saturdays elimination final.
Whilst the 33-15 loss the Caloundra spelt the end of the race for the A Grade, all was not lost in the eyes of Noosa coach Matt Buckland. “Saturday’s match was a tough day out that’s for sure, but it wasn’t through lack of trying. With a penalty try, and a length of the field intercept try contributing 14 points to the Caloundra tally, the score line does not reflect how close we were to progressing,” he said. As he reflected on the year that was the 2022 season, Buckland is clearly proud of his young side and their commitment. “They can truly hold their heads up high and be proud of what they have achieved as such a young group, most being in their very early 20’s,” he said. Buckland’s views were supported by Dolphins President Jerry Lewis who can see the potential that exists. “The team across the paddock has shown they have what it takes to lead the club back to premiership glory in coming years if they can stick together. They may have finished fourth, but there was only three points between fourth and second and experience will just galvanise that talent,” he said.
The reserve grade survived their first elimination test against Caboolture, cleverly executing a very precise game plan. “The Snakes are a very big and highly competitive side, so I was very happy to see the way the boys stuck to our plan. The second half was particularly impressive taking the half time 7 all lead and finishing ahead 26-17,” coach Mark Winder said. Players impressing on the day included Dom McGarth, Lincoln Parsons and Sam Hasler. The team takes on Wynnum this Saturday with the victors heading into the grand final clash with University.
Whilst the men continue to fight for survival, the Dolphins Women earned direct entry into the August 29 Grand Final with a defence led 12-0 victory over the highly fancied and previously undefeated Nambour side. Whilst an intercept try added to the A grade defeat, such a try by Bronte Langbridge started the points tally for the Women and with Queensland Country rep Dillyn Blackburn adding to the try count. Coach Damien Cogill pointed to his team’s relentless defence and strong set pieces as the foundation for the victory, despite the two yellow cards reducing their numbers in the second half. Impressing Cogill was the hardworking props Rhiannon Zanelli and Ashleigh Wark along worth the tenacious performance by half back Pearl Fitzgerald. But it was a last ditch tackle at fullback by Aqua Meaney that bought the wet crowd alive. “Not only was it try saving but potentially match winning,” said Cogill as he reflected on a great team effort.
Saturday matches at Maroochydore see Noosa Reserve Grade take on Wynnum at 1.45pm. Keep up to date with all the news and team announcements on the Noosa Dolphins Facebook page.
