By Brian Laybutt, Club President Casuarina Beach Rugby Club
IN AN historical event the Casuarina Rugby Club have now recorded their first ever win as a first grade club defeating Bangalow 20 -12 last Saturday, March 22.
Travelling to Bangalow for their Round 3 clash, there was certainly an air of expectancy around the team.
Casuarina started the game in dazzling form scoring two tries within the first ten minutes of the game. Both tries were a result of slick backline movements with incisive runs from both Adam Leach and Alo Qio setting up fullback Kai George who crossed the line twice. Taking a commanding early lead of 12 – 0 the Bangalow team rallied and played strong aggressive rugby.
This led to two tries and Bangalow were well and truly back in the game at 12 all.
Just before half time, Casuarina put on a dominate forward raid allowing scrum half Darcy McGregor to make a snipping run from the base of the ruck and score, leaving the half time result at 17 – 12.
The second half saw Bangalow controlling the majority of the ball and this in turn placed enormous pressure on the Casuarina defence. Casuarina were up for the task, in particular hard working forwards Jack Pick and captain Dan Heritage were rock solid in defence and loose forwards Jack Jones and James McMahon were continually applying pressure to the opposition inside backs. When Casuarina were able to get the ball they looked very dangerous with Alo Qio leading the charge in the backs and a number of forward rushes provided a glimpse into the real capability of this team.
Bangalow had a number of opportunities to level the scores late in the second half but these were squander with simple handling mistakes. Webb Lillis was successful with his penalty goal in the 72nd minute of the game, which saw the lead extend to 8 points and seal the victory for the Casuarina team.
In the three games played this season it is very evident that this fledging club is not just in the competition to make up numbers. The team has very good depth, a wealth of talented players and is now clearly growing in confidence.
Casuarina will be playing their next home game this Saturday the 6th May against Southern Cross University. First grade will kick off at 3.30p.m. at the Casuarina Rugby Ground. Come along and support your local rugby team.