Parkes versus Red Bend
There was both nerves and excitement in the air as grand final day in Canowindra was upon the Parkes Sportspower Under 14s as they prepared to take on Red Bend.
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It was always going to be an uphill challenge for the boys as the strong Red Bend team had been the benchmark for season 2016 but one they were ready for. It didn’t take long for the opposition to post the first points for the game, an unconverted try for 4-0.
The play for the next ten minutes went from end to end. Michael Riley was superb in defence, while Finnley Neilsen and Eden Lydford in the forwards made valuable metres, both coming off strong games the week before.
Red Bend then scored the next try in the 13th minute, once again unsuccessful with the conversion to take to score to 8-0.
Senior players Sakiasi Sodrodo (DoDo) and Nic Facchi continually injected themselves into the game both in attack an defence to try and lift the troops. Tyson Richardson enjoyed his best game for the year, whilst centre Maia Haenga and backrower Brendan Trim worked tirelessly in defence.
A lapse in concentration saw the gaps open and the Red Bend half back took full advantage slicing through adding a nice dummy and scoring close to the uprights.
With the conversion this time successful taking the score to half time at 14-0.
The second half saw the Red Bend boys start with lots of intensity; strong running and accurate passing saw them rewarded with a converted try. The score 20-0.
With their heads down Parkes allowed Red Bend to score two quick tries on the back of repeat sets, one converted to blow the score out to 30-0.
Not what the Parkes boys had wanted for the grand final but the team didn’t give up the attack for points.
The senior players rose to the occasion. After repelling the Red Bend attack, Nic Facchi and Cody Crisp showed their class to combine and drive the ball forward. A flick from Cody behind and out the back saw a quick response from Benny Herring.
He was on the spot to score Parkes first and to be only points much to the delight and sounds of the Parkes supporters. Score 30-4. A late try sealed the win for Red Bend 34-4. Despite being outgunned by the Red Bend team, the Parkes boys, known as the youngest 14s side in the competition, can hold their heads high for the spirit they played the game.
Despite being outgunned by the Red Bend team, the Parkes boys can hold their heads high.
They showed great comradery, improvement, dedication and had fun during the season. Whilst it wasn’t their year to lift the silverware the coaching staff, parents and supporters were equally impressed and proud your efforts.
