Burns, MacGregor's stellar year in league

A former Spaceman and Spacecat have proudly represented Parkes on the national rugby league stage this year making their names known. Billy Burns and Elizabeth MacGregor have had standout performances this season in their respective competitions. Burns has become a key figure in the Cronulla Sharks line-up which has culminated into his first NRL finals series appearance. After years of perseverance for Burns through injuries and limited first-grade opportunities, the 26-year-old has become a reliable presence on the Sharks' right edge playing a pivotal role in the Cronulla's finals campaign. Week one of finals saw the Sharks up against the Sydney Roosters in an elimination final. With a hard-fought 20-10 win the Sharks advanced into week two against minor premiers the Canberra Raiders. A dominate 32-12 victory where Burns added four points to the score with a line-break saw the team move to week three. Week three was a tough game for the Sharks against Melbourne Storm with Burns making multiple try-saving tackles to keep Cronulla in the contest. Unfortunately that wasn't enough and Storm secured their spot in the grand final with a 22-14 win. Ahead of the finals Burns reflected on his journey with NRL.com. "They call it a rollercoaster for a reason... I'm grateful for the support network I had around me during the tougher times," he said. "I'm trying to cherish the moment with such a good group of boys and good coaching staff." His impact hasn't gone unnoticed with Sharks captain Blayke Brailey praising Burns as "the ultimate clubman". "He makes training fun and he's playing outstanding at the moment. He's taken that spot with both hands," Brailey said. Meanwhile, MacGregor has made her mark in the NRLW with the Canterbury Bulldogs scoring an impressive seven tries in just eight appearances during her debut season. Despite the Bulldogs missing out on a finals spot, MacGregor's performances were a highlight in a challenging campaign where she was part of one win, one draw and six losses. As the youngest member of the squad, she was also part of history with the Bulldogs fielding their first ever NRLW team and played in the league's first draw which ended in a golden point thriller against the Gold Coast Titans. In just three games, MacGregor crossed the line twice each match, showcasing her speed and skill on the wing proving she is one to watch in seasons to come.

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