URGENT UPDATE: In a nail-biting finish, the Leeton Greens have been eliminated from the Group 20 finals after a 28-24 loss to the Hay Magpies at Yanco Sportsground earlier today. This shocking exit marks the end of their season, leaving fans and players reeling from a heartbreaking defeat in extra time.
The stakes were high as both teams faced off, knowing the winner would advance to the preliminary final, while the loser would begin planning for the 2026 season. The Magpies jumped to an early lead, with Brad Pocock breaking through Leeton’s defense to assist Hugh Crighton in scoring the first try.
The Greens quickly retaliated, thanks to a powerful run from Jesse Watson, setting up Todd Prest for a try. With just 11 minutes left in the first half, Prest scored again, giving Leeton a 12-6 lead. A penalty goal by James Tafiti extended their advantage to 14-6 at halftime.
Hay needed a strong start in the second half, and they delivered when Kynan Headon scored a try following strong runs from Jeremaia Nakete. However, the Greens fought back, with Billy Dickinson crossing the line to restore Leeton’s margin. The match saw both sides struggling with discipline, leading to a rollercoaster of scoring.
With just 14 minutes remaining, Leeton held a precarious 24-18 lead, but injuries to key players Shanon Bradbrook and Rhys Wilesmith raised alarms. A brilliant play from Ben Taylor set up a 40/20 for Hay, allowing Nakete to score and tie the game at 24-all with under nine minutes left.
As the match progressed into extra time, neither team could capitalize until the second half, when Pocock’s decisive break led to Patty Miller scoring the match-winning try for Hay. Leeton captain Dickinson lamented their lack of discipline, saying,
“We just made errors and gave away poor penalties, and that made it hard to swing the tide our way.”
This devastating loss marks a disappointing end to the season for Leeton, and fans are left wondering what could have been had injuries not plagued their squad. As the Magpies celebrate their victory, all eyes now turn to the upcoming preliminary final.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story as the aftermath of this thrilling semi-final unfolds.
