Valleys build confidence by taking down Gatton

RUGBY LEAGUE: Valleys will take confidence into the Volunteers Cup post-season after a hard-fought defeat of Hawks in Gatton.

The Roosters were able to get over the top of their TRL rivals 25-18 at Cahill Park as they prepare for a semi-final showdown this weekend.

“It’s always good to get a win, and it was certainly an interesting game,” Roosters coach Matt Shulze said.

“Gatton turned up to play and had a crack.

“We were up by a bit before we slackened off.

“It was good to have a tough game before the finals. Gatton always turn up to play at home on a Saturday night.”

Valleys led 24-8 before the Hawks mounted a spirited comeback, getting themselves to within a converted try, before a Josh Chappell field goal iced the contest.

Schulze praised the young half for another strong performance, as well as recognising the effort of one of the team’s veterans.

“Josh was good again. He scored an important try and was smart enough to put a field goal over when we were up 24-18,” he said.

“Sam Kings played his best game of the year and Brock Diment was exceptional again. He beats people so easily oneon-one.

“It’s been good to have Eugene’s (Seddon) experience. He’s picked up match fitness over the last few weeks and will be valuable for us in the finals.”

Valleys will now take on Norths for a spot in the grand final, with Schulze expecting a number of players to return.

“We had about eight or nine out and a few more the week before,” he said.

“Nala (Hnaloan Budden) is back this week, as are Todd White and Nathan Bowering. Junior Chong Nee and Gus Mati should be there, while Gerome (Burns) is still unlikely.

“Norths have been a lot better as the competition has gone on. They’ve got some good backrowers and a good halfback that we have to be mindful of.

“We’re expecting a tough contest. We want to stay in the fight, make sure we control the ball and keep our discipline.”

Southern Suburbs put up a fight, but found Goodna too much to handle, going down 34-14.

Jaren Bender, Braydon Wilson and Nathaniel Jones crossed for tries in the loss.