TWO YEARS TO REACH THE LAST STEP TO GLORY
LIFTING the premiership trophy would be the culmination of “a two year journey”, according to Matt White, and he has identified a rapidly developing youngster as the man to break the grand final apart.
As the under-16s outfit of Palm Beach Currumbin prepare to challenge the Eagles for the Gold Coast District Rugby Union title, they will do so arguably more battle hardened than any of their rivals.
White, the Alleygators coach, has retained the squad that took on last year’s competition in the same division after a decision was made in 2021 for the group to play up an age group. Taking on teenagers older, bigger and more experienced was a test of attrition for White’s young men, however he said outside centre Lalau Robbie was one who had witnessed drastic growth.
The PBC mentor declared Robbie – once a shy junior unsure of his place in the side – as one of the key x-factors who could determine his unit’s premiership fate. And he will do so fresh off scoring a double in his side’s semi-final triumph over Helensvale, icing a brilliant 53-5 win.
“He probably didn’t really feel comfortable in the team or know where he sat. We worked really hard on him to communicate to him his importance in the team make-up in such a big position,” White said.
“Now he’s such an integral part of the team, and not only has he earnt the respect of the team but he’s starting to believe he can actually play great football.
“In the last two years he’s really found himself as a person as well. He’s a huge part of our team. He loves getting the ball in some space and creating opportunities for his guys outside. He’s very solid in defence and doesn’t shy from contact, but if he gets the ball in open space he’s hard to stop.
“His growth and journey over the last two years has been the greatest of anyone in the team, and he’s playing some of the best football I’ve ever seen him play.”
When the division’s final two teams last met, the Eagles clawed their way to a tense 27-21 victory over the minor premiers.
Spearheading the charge was the brother duo of Hesed and Agapetos Lote-Felo, each of whom scored crucial tries in rival territory.
Eagles coach Grant Steffek said a palpable bond had developed amongst his young group, however they would not be reading too much into their last gasp triumph.
Ultimately come Saturday, he said their Alleygator counterparts would be aware they had perhaps let that previous contest slip by.
“I’d suggest we were lucky in the second game to take the win. Palm Beach would be pretty gutted they lost that, and if we’re being honest in that one there were a couple of errors at their end that cost them,” Steffek said.
“They’ll be well refined and ready for that. We’ll get ball in hand and really take it to them, we’ve always been a great ball in hand team, so we will get back to our strengths for them and see how we go.”