PSSA Rugby Union

Last Wednesday 21 students boarded a bus bound for Scone and Maitland Public School’s first PSSA rugby union match. Despite the very early start the boys were full of excitement and keen to get on the park. Unfortunately it was a long journey and a student was heard to ask the dreaded “are we nearly there question” despite being just past Branxton.

Eventually we disembarked the bus and after a quick recess were down to business. The boys were keen and ran onto the field feeling bullet-proof. That feeling didn’t last long however with Scone scoring in the corner with their quick men proving dangerous. The team then showed great composure to work their way back into the game and equalise with a try to Harrison Chapman right on half time with some excellent lead up work by the forwards.

During the second half the Maitland team dominated both possession and field position, but were unable to land the killer blow. The scoreless half meant the game would be decided in extra time. In the early stages of extra time Maitland again had most of the ball and came close to scoring several times but Scone held their ground and took all that was thrown at them. Late in the first of the 5 minute extra halves the Scone fast men scored the first of two tries to put pressure on Maitland. Early in the second 5 minute extra half the Scone side scored again to put the match beyond doubt.

All the boys put in a huge effort and I am proud of the way they played. All the boys played hard and it is hard to single out any one student for praise. Harrison Chapman and Carter Redman showed their experience at the breakdown while James Edge and David Moylan were outstanding with making metres. In the backs, Dylan Cawsey showed great promise in his first ever game of football and Logan Wilcher was outstanding in defence, making a handful of try saving tackles.

The team were gracious in defeat and despite an exhausting day, still managed to cheer Stephanie Rice home for gold and belt out the national anthem at top volume.

Thanks to all the parents who made the long trek to support and encourage the boys, as well as your help when a student was injured.

A special thank you to Mark Chapman for his help in running the team on the day and for letting us wear his set of jumpers.

During the game David Moylan was injured and was taken to Scone hospital for treatment. He returned home that afternoon and his injuries are not serious. We hope he recovers soon and hasn’t given his mum too much of a headache during his time off.

I would also like to single out Tamara Ott for thanks and praise. She volunteered to accompany David to hospital as well as helping on the sidelines with first aid treatment and advice. I could not have hoped to manage the situation without her help and I know her presence helped ease Mrs Moylan’s mind. Thank you.

The boys now look forward to the Digby Rayward Shield which is contested next month at Hunter Valley Grammar. We are hoping to enter two teams in the 10 a side competition.

Mark Cridland