Nerang go backwards to advance

NERANG have proved the value in dropping down out of first grade to rebuild, according to Gold Coast District Rugby Union boss Kim Bending.

The Bulls are set to emerge from the wilderness and apply for a return to the top tier next year on the back of the second grade premiership they secured at the weekend.

Only Surfers Paradise and Palm Beach have won more first grade titles than Nerang’s seven but after a tough run, the Bulls fell out of the premier division in 2016.

Under the guidance of president Heath Claydon and coach John Maniapoto, Nerang beat Griffith University Colleges 26-21 in the decider.

Bending said their journey proved battlers in first grade should not fear taking a step backwards to move forwards.

“When you get that winning feeling, it creates a whole new dynamic in your club,” Bending said.