UPDATE: In a thrilling turnaround, the Reddies shocked the rugby community with a 33-29 victory over Griffith at Beres Ellwood Oval on July 15, 2023. Just a week after forfeiting their match against Wagga City, this stunning win proves that in football, fortunes can change in the blink of an eye.
The Reddies, struggling to find form this season, faced a daunting challenge as they fell behind late in the match. However, they rallied in the final minutes, with a crucial try from Ilatia Ravouvou sealing a remarkable comeback against a finals-bound opponent.
“We had quite a few blokes come back, which I knew we were going to need,” said Reddies coach Mick Wakeling. “There were probably seven or eight blokes in first grade back, and they make a big difference.” The coach praised the team’s resilience, highlighting their refusal to give in even when Griffith surged ahead.
Goal-kicking proved pivotal in this nail-biter, with Cam Thomas converting four of his five attempts, including a challenging sideline kick that heightened the tension in the closing stages. The Reddies’ victory marks only their second win of the season, following a 13-point triumph over Albury in round two.
As the Reddies aim for a strong finish, they face a crucial match against the Steamers in the final round. “It was great to get the rewards as we’ve been in a lot of games this year,” Wakeling noted, reflecting on the team’s journey this season.
Meanwhile, Wagga City capitalized on the Reddies’ surprise win to reclaim the top spot in the league, securing a resounding 60-21 victory over Ag College. In this match, both teams showcased incredible momentum swings, with Wagga City’s coach Tyson McLachlan returning from a knee injury to lead his team to victory.
Wagga City’s winger Luke Anderson shone brightly, scoring a hat-trick that contributed to their dominant performance. This victory confirms Wagga City’s status as a formidable contender as the season approaches its climax.
Tumut also solidified their position, ensuring a third-place finish in the league regardless of the outcomes in the final matches. The Bulls made headlines with an astonishing 125-3 victory over Albury, scoring an impressive 19 tries and featuring a hat-trick from Varinava Saukuru.
As the season winds down, all eyes will be on the Reddies as they seek to build on this unexpected victory. Will they continue to defy the odds in their upcoming clash? Stay tuned for the latest updates as this thrilling rugby season unfolds.
