By Donna Frey
NOOSA DOLPHINS
Anticipation of the local Noosa Under 11s derby increased when it was revealed that there would be community pizza after the game.
At 5.10pm sharp, the Fins and the Reds emerged on the field through a guard of honour provided by the junior members of the club.
With many players having known each other since pre-school, the stakes were high as the winner gets first dibs on the pizza.
Looking like warriors raised from Mordor, the teams exchanged steely looks in the pre-game line-up.
The coaches engaged in a firm white knuckle handshake that was a sign of things to come, while the players assumed their field positions.
Not since before Mark Coyne’s miracle try in game one of the 1994 State of Origin was a crowd this quiet!
This was never going to be a walkover, and previous form does not count when you play your mates for honour and bragging rights.
Like heavyweights slugging it out, the Fins and Reds traded tries, fought at the breakdown and set about imposing themselves on the team.
With the score tied at half time and the oranges eaten, both teams set about breaking the spirit of the other.
On display was the future of Noosa Rugby Union – where mates can go hammer and tong before sharing a laugh and a good feed.
The level of skill was admirable and the game technical, the effort on par with any “Origin” series.
Before running out eventual winners, the Fins were kept honest by a mighty Reds outfit.
There is no need to single out any one individual as all players attained the right to hold their heads high and feel like a mighty Dolphin.
You were all magnificent and a joy to watch.
