UPDATE: In a stunning display of resilience, the Kangaroos secured a place in the Group Nine grand final with a decisive 34-16 victory over Gundagai at the Equex Centre on July 30, 2023. The team responded to early pressure by scoring five tries in just 29 minutes, showcasing their strength and determination.
Gundagai took an early lead, scoring within four minutes as Toby Dasey assisted Will Herring for the first try. However, the Kangaroos quickly turned the tide, with captain-coach Nathan Rose expressing pride in his team’s ability to regain control. “It was nice to get back in the game there, not drop our heads and come home strong,” Rose stated.
The match had a thrilling back-and-forth as both teams fought hard. Following two early tries from Gundagai, the Kangaroos managed to even the score at 12-all just before halftime, thanks to a lucky try from James Smart.
In the second half, the Kangaroos surged ahead, starting with a spectacular 80-meter return from Gus Clark, which marked the beginning of a scoring spree. Dakota Ruta capitalized on Gundagai’s mistakes, extending the lead with a second try. With only eight minutes remaining, Sam Macklan’s try solidified the Kangaroos’ victory, while Gundagai’s Meli Drau managed to score again, making it a tense finish.
Despite their success, the Kangaroos are aware of the challenges ahead. “We have to keep working hard over the next two weeks for a shot at the title,” Rose emphasized. This victory marks a significant shift for the Kangaroos, who have previously faced tough paths to the grand final. Rose’s return from injury proved crucial, although he remains uncertain about his position in the upcoming matches.
Meanwhile, Gundagai now faces a critical moment as they prepare to meet Young in another semi-final showdown. Coach Aaron Gorrell expressed disappointment in his team’s performance, admitting that they strayed from their strategies after taking an early lead. “We got everything we deserved today,” Gorrell said, recognizing the need for improvement in their gameplay.
With injuries affecting both teams, including a concern for Gundagai’s hooker Wilson Hamblin, Gorrell reassured fans that the team would regroup and come back stronger. “We just have to be better than we were today,” he stated, looking ahead to the crucial rematch against Young.
As anticipation builds for the grand final, the Kangaroos and Gundagai are at pivotal crossroads that will determine their fates in the finals. Fans are urged to stay tuned for the next developments as both teams gear up for their upcoming matches.
