MORE ACTION PHOTOS: ❰❰ INSIDE SPORT ❰❰
legends Andrew Johns (16s) and Laurie Daley (18s) are a great boost for Country.
“It’s unbelievable to have two superstars of the game showing their support in this way. It gives the matches more prestige.
“The Johns and Daley Shields are great for kids in the bush. We have an enormous breeding area out here and days like this give the kids a chance to showcase their abilities,” Josh said.
“Last year four of our Country 23s team were picked up by NRL clubs through these types of games, and they’re now playing at a much higher level.”
Josh smiled when I asked him if he “had a bob each way” on the two teams.
“Ha, ha! Obviously I grew up in Narromine and played with all the Western teams before I tried my luck in Sydney and I’ve been living in the Riverina since 2012 so, yep, I suppose I’m on a winner either way,” he laughed before striding off to coach the Bulls’ Under-23s.
Sadly for Josh and his gold and maroon team, they were no match for the Rams who made it three wins from three on the day for the greens, winning 38-20 in sweltering heat.
Women’s league update
IN round 2 of the Western Women’s league, Group XI were too strong for the Castlereagh League teams.
Rebecca Smyth scored four tries in the Opens’ 36-12 victory while the Under-18s won 40-16 despite Lakeisha Hull running in three tries for Castlereagh.
Pictured is Castlereagh’s Western Rams player, Channy Burgess, scoring against Woodbridge Cup in the opening round of the Western Women’s rugby League Championship.