Joeys showed that last year’s inaugural Power Waste Management Cup success, their first in the CJRL top open age grade, was no flash in the pan when they backed it up with an 18-10 triumph over a gallant Como-Jannali Crocodiles at PointsBet Stadium on Sunday.
A big vocal crowd was on hand to see the Crocs start well and take a 4-0 lead after nine minutes with a try to left winger Fynn Perryman after a sweeping backline play. Joeys settled after what looked a nervous start, and posted a try through elusive fullback Jamie Lawler who beat two defenders to cross out wide on Joeys left flank after 32 minutes. With a great conversion from Cieza James the defending premiers were back in control heading to the break at 6-4.
Joeys kept up the heat on the Crocs after the return and were rewarded when hooker Reece Gair caught the Crocs defence on their heels when defending their tryline only three minutes after the resumption. Ceiza James landed another great conversion, and the Roos had some breathing space.
Joeys didn’t let up and started to rip holes in the Crocs right edge defense with Joeys center Logan Dillon the main weapon, with Dillon slicing through and throwing a dummy to wrong-foot Crocs fullback Robbie Rowlands and score under the posts to take the lead out to 18-4.
From here Como-Jannali showed more desperation and steadied with some strong leadership up front with Ryan Archer barging over to get back to 18-10 with 21 minutes left in the decider. Both sides worked hard for another four pointer and Como-Jannali came very close when lock Nikau Wrathall charged into the upright pad covered in defenders and was unable to get the ball across the line.
The experience of 2023 saw Joeys handle the closing stages and seal the win and claim back-to-back titles, with centre Logan Dillon named Player of the Match after a second half effort that had the Crocs defenders grasping at air.
In the Power Waste Management Plate, De La Salle held off a late charge by Gymea to take the title by 26-16. The Gorillas returned the favour in the Power Waste Management Emerging Cup with a 10-8 win in a thriller.
Como-Jannali tasted some success on the big day with a strong in the Under 17 gold grand final with a 40-14 win over Aquinas in a very entertaining game of Rugby League.
The Cronulla JRL thanks its' amazing sponsors including Zambrero, Power Waste Management, Shire Steel, Laidre, Pedwards Group and Aramex Australia.
***
Lookout for the professional photos from every Grand Final being posted on our website and social channels over the coming days and weeks.
***
Pictures: Adam Wrightson (Cronulla JRL)
For full gallery & to download photos: https://photos.app.goo.gl/ejrgr9kVat2rkmnBA
Commentaires