Pirates v Vikings
THE Port Macquarie Pirates have continued their impressive undefeated
Mid-North Coast Zone Rugby run by defeating the Hastings Valley Vikings
21-15 at Stuart Park over the weekend.
The home side was given a of a scare early on by
their hometown rivals as the Vikings managed to get off to a flyer and
scored a try in the opening minutes of the match.
From there, the game turned into an arm-wrestle of
sorts.
Pirates captain-coach Jordan Macey booted a
penalty goal and then a dropped goal right before the break to nose the
Pirates ahead by a single point.
Centre Matt Mane was forced from the field in the
early stages of the match with a hamstring aggravation and said the
Pirates went into the second half with a completely different attitude.
“We struggled with execution early on and
our combinations weren’t working as well as we’d have
liked,” Mane admitted.
“But, the guys came out from the halftime
break with a different attitude and did well to eventually take the
game.”
Mane explained the previous week’s big 72-0
win did not do his side any favours, coming into what was always
expected to be a tough encounter against the second-placed Vikings, but
said the close game would do his side more good than harm.
“We really did not have the ideal lead-up to
this match,” Mane said.
“It was always expected to be a tough game.
“At half time in the sheds we were saying
how we needed a good, close game like this leading into the finals
series.”
The injured centre said with four games remaining
in the
regular competition, whispers of the undefeated
run are getting louder.
“It is not something we have been talking
about much,” Mane said.
“We want to focus more on each game ahead of
us. When you stop doing that, that is when you will lose.
“But, I guess it is there and people are
starting to talk about it a bit more,” he admitted
Mane said his hamstring injury would sideline him
for the next game but he is hoping to be back in two or three weeks.
The Pirates under-19s, pretty in pink, kept their
Vikings rivals scoreless and romped to a comprehensive 46-0 win.
Vikings can take some positives out of the weekend
as their reserve grade squad defeated Pirates 18-7.
Pirates v South West Rocks
IT was a red-letter day for The
Westport Club-sponsored Port Macquarie Pirates on the weekend, with the
Mid-North Coast Zone Rugby club winning all three grades at home.
The undefeated First XV smashed the South West
Rocks Gaolers 72-0, the Second XV trumped the competition leaders
Bowraville Goannas 20-19, and the under 19s accounted for the Gaolers
27-7.
“Although it was a good day for the club,
most of the praise should go to our under 19 and reserve grade
teams,” head coach Jordan Macey said.
“Marc Minor is doing a terrific job with the
young guys – and has them firing at the moment.
“As for the Second XV, their victory over
the frontrunners was a great effort.
“On an individual note, league convert
Russell Gordon has really impressed me too.
“And, he showed his class with a couple of
tries on the weekend.”
Powerhouse centre Matt Mane began the game with a
very strong tackle and, from that point on, the entire Pirates crew
knew that it was going to be a deadly serious showdown.
It wasn’t long before fly half Macey and
Mane busted through the visitor’s ranks.
Mane opened the campaign with some gutsy fending
as he attacked the line and, before the supporters on the hill could
consider seeking a second beverage, the score was 12-0.
Five minutes later, it appeared as though the
Pirates’ backline was at training, with British centre Tom Emes
pushing the side ahead 19-0.
Macey converted the try, albeit his goal kicking
was troubled against the strong breeze.
The Pirates tried to consolidate but found prop
Jamie Moore deep in the backline with a bullet pass, which went astray.
Even against the wind, the hosts were dominating
and produced space for Darryl Thompson, who crossed, for a 26-0 lead.
Shortly before the break, the Pirates placed
themselves in a confident 31-0 position.
The second half saw the home side hoist its
mainsails.
The sheer tenacity by the Pirates’ gang was
staggering at times and, even against a much larger forward pack, the
scrums were tantalising to the supporting crowd.
Local stalwart Leon Anderson, who has played more
than 200 games for the club, was on the hill and delighted with the
performance.
When asked what he enjoyed most about the match,
he replied, “the game of running rugby by the Pirates is
excellent and the control and discipline by the forwards is
inspirational.”
Almost as this short grab was being freely
provided, flanker Ben Nolan seemed to demand his own park with a
gut-busting run at full speed.
Aaron Robinson was both exciting and awe-inspiring
to watch at scrumhalf.
Some elders of the club, who were celebrating
Heritage Day likened “Robbo’s” effort to the great
Rod McLean, which is a stunning comparison.
The reserve grade side put in their gutsiest
performance of the year against the table-topping Goannas.
The front-row of Rhys Dutton, Josh Nolan and Adam
Lysle obliterated Bowraville in the scrums, and were well backed up by
the Tongan Loni Akaveka.
Gordon, who dominated in the centres, showed the
visitors how to fend off some good defence and the halves, Danny
Piesley and Dave Bailey, gave both the forward pack and the backline
wonderful direction all day.
The under 19s sought inspiration from the memory
of the tragic loss endured by the Turnham family to produce a fantastic
result.
Great efforts were provided by the highly-regarded
Martin Roods and Mat “Waldo” Walton but it was the halves
again who laid the platform with Sam Meadows in stunning form.
Pirates v Kempsey
It was a game that the Pirates would much rather forget. The Westport
Club sponsored Port Macquarie Pirates took the competition points,
however, it was a game that was up for grabs right to the very end. The
game was marred by dropped ball, misdirected passes and a general lack
of cohesion amongst the Pirates.
The Kempsey Cannonballs kept the game up to the Pirates with strong
defence and a aggresive style of play which did not allow the Pirates
to slip into gear as easily as they have been doing in the competition
so far.
To the Pirates credit, they stuck to their guns and relied heavily on
last ditch defensive lines which thwarted scoring attempts by the
Cannonballs.
Initially, the game looked that it might be another dominant
performance by the Pirates with the ball being swung to the backline
but the passes just did not stick or failed to find their mark.
The Cannonballs looked as though they were to be the first to score in
the first moments of the game but a dropped ball by the outside centre
with an overlap and the line open ended that movement.
The 10th minute saw an explosive run by Jordan Macey which found winger
Scott Pagan in support came close to the line, however the Kempsey
cover defence put and end to the Pirates attack.
The 19th minute of the game saw the first scoring points by the Pirates
after the Cannonballs were seeking to run the ball from their half and
a spilt ball ended up on the toe of Tom Emes who followed this up with
a further well weighted kick which lobbed over the Kempsey try line and
Emes was able to pounce upon the ball. The try was unconverted.
Again the Pirates forwards provided a strong platform for the backline.
The Pirates lineout also gave crisp clean ball to the backs.
Unfortunately, the back line could not capitalise on this.
The speed of Tom Emes saved a certain Kempsey try. The ball was kicked
through by Kempsey and after giving the Kempsey player a head start,
Emes was able to smother the ball to dissipate the Kempsey scoring
opportunity.
The break saw the Pirates with an unconvincing 5-0 lead.
The second half was dominated by scrappy play from both sides and
numerous penalties.
It was not until the 35th minute of the game that Macey broke out of
the Kempsey defence and found Tom Emes in support. Emes crossed
adjacent to the posts. With the conversion by Matt Maney the Pirates
were finally able to draw a sigh of relief with a 12-0 lead.
Right on full time, Lucas Webb broke the tiring Cannonballs defence and
again found Tom Emes in support. The unconverted try gave the
Pirates the final score of 17-0.
The outstanding game by Tom Emes in both attack and defence earned the
talented Englishmen the players player award.
Emes was very well supported by Chad Joseph and Andrew Lawrence.
The Port Macquarie Pirates Reserve Grade form were unable to recapture
the form they displayed last week at Coffs Harbour and in an
unconvincing display submitted to the Kempsey Cannonballs 25-3.
The Pirates forwards tried hard all day but they met a formidable
Kempsey team.
Rhys Dutton had another strong display and showed his many skills which
included a very neat chip kick.
Morgan Fox attempted to enthuse his players but on each occasion
Kempsey were able to cancel the Pirates advances.
Danny Piesley again showed his skill at half back.
Ashley Hocking had his usual strong game in the front of the scrum and
in general play.
The U/19 Port Macquarie Pirates in facing their opponents from
last years grand final displayed enthusiasm, confidence and ability to
come from behind and record a strong 29-24 victory.
The Cannonballs had gone to the break with a 17-14 lead. The
Pirates knew they were still in the contest. Unfortunately the game was
marred by rough play from the Cannonballs which resulted in their
having one player sin binned and another sent from the field.
The Pirates started the game slowly but gradually increased their
momentum to snatch the well deserved victory over the U/19 competition
front runners.
The try scorers for the Pirates were Scott Munro (2) Nick Maxwell and
Matt Walton.
Justin Beeforth played strongly and was rewarded with the players
player award for the day and also a spot on the first and second grade
benches.
Sam Williams attacked and defended throughout the game. The reliability
of Williams is a cornerstone of the Pirates success this year.
Luke Woodhouse, returning from injury, showed his talents in the
custodial role at full back.
Scott Munro and Nick Maxwell were rewarded with best and fairest points.
This game was an exciting affair which had the crowd engrossed in a
fine game of rugby. The game had the perfect combination of
strong forward power and extensive use of the ball by the backline.
Pirates v Coffs Crushers
Saturday saw the Westport Club sponsored Port Macquarie Pirates again
at Coffs Rugby Park for the clash with the Coffs Crushers. After
playing the Breakers at Coffs Harbour a fortnight ago and several
players being involved in representative fixtures last weekend, Coffs
Rugby park is beginning to become quite familiar to the Pirates players.
From the kick off the Pirates showed a domination that would further
evolve as the game progressed.
The first points on the board went to Matt Mane who chipped a neat
field goal in the sixth minute. The 3-0 advantage was looking to be
short lived as from the resumption in play the Coffs Crushers attacked
the Pirates line, however, the Pirates defence remained intact. Coffs
Crushers were awared a penalty in this passage of play but the attempt
passed wide of the posts.
The individual brilliance of Jordan Macey came to the fore in the 12th
minute when he chipped ahead, regathered and placed the ball across the
Crushers line to extend the Pirates lead to 10-0.
The pressure applied by the Pirates forwards forced many errors amongst
the Crushers causing turnovers to keep the Pirates in an advantageous
position.
Through this passage of play neither team were able to dominate their
opposition.
Darryl Thompson had an inspirational game. Thompson was awarded the
"players player" award for his outstanding performance.
In the 31st minute Thompson broke several tackles and weaved his way
through the Crushers defence only to have the ball knocked from his
grasp as he went for the line.
From the ensuing scrum, which resulted in a win for the Pirates
forwards, the ball was swung wide to the backs with Thompson drawing
the defence and sending a neat pass to Scott Pagan who crossed in the
corner. The try was unconverted and the Pirates had the advantage of a
scoreline of 15-0.
Just as the players were about to break for half time, the Pirates were
attacking the Crushers line when Macey received the ball and then held
the ball up perfectly to tease the Crushers defence and put a deft pass
into the hands of Thompson who ran on to the ball and scored adjacent
to the posts. Macey converted and the Pirates went to the oranges with
a 22-0 lead.
The second held saw a rejuvenated Crushers side dominate from the
commencement of play as they tried to reduce the deficit from the first
stanza. The Pirates defence remained intact.
In the 12 minute of the second half, the Crushers were penalised for a
lifting tackle on Tom Valentine, which caused injury to Valentines
ribs. Valentine resumed play after medical attention.
Matt Mane who continues his run of top form put a perfectly weighted
kick in behind the Crushers defence which allowed Macey to regather and
score. This try was converted by Thompson.
A short four minutes later Tom Emes received the ball from broken play
and showed his acceleration to outpace the Crushers defence and add to
the Pirates try tally. The conversion by Thompson gave the Pirates an
unassailable lead of 36-0.
During this passage of play the intensity of the game took its toll
with injuries forcing Heath Morgan,Tom Valentine,Lucas Webb and Jordan
Macey from the field.
The final ten minutes of the game saw the Crushers put two tries
on the board to give the final score of 36-12.
Prop forwards John Nicholson and Rob Mooney had outstanding games and
their strength and support from the remainder of the Pirates pack paved
the way for victory.
The Reserve Grade saw the Pirates encounter the Southern Cross
University Marlins. This game saw the larger Pirates forward pack gain
an ascendancy which allowed the backs to capitalise on the forward
movement and space that was made available to them.
Morgan Fox was the first try scorer for the Pirates. This was converted
by Chris Turnham whose current form must surely be giving the selectors
something to think about.
The 18th minute saw Danny Peisley take the ball from a Pirates scrum
win and dart twenty metres to score untouched by the students.
Russell Thomas scored a further Pirates try after a sharp backline
movement which, with the conversion took the Pirates to a half time
lead of 19-6.
Simon Anderson was the first to score in the second half after taking
the ball from a Marlins knock on and crossing the Marlins line.
Anderson converted his own try.
Further tries were scored in the second half by Kyle Miller and Russell
Thomas.
An all in brawl marred the second half of this entertaining match. The
brawl started after Pirates prop forward Rhys Dutton was stomped on the
head during a maul. It took some time for the match officials to
restore order. It resulted in the sin binning of the Marlins offender.
The final result was a well deserved victory to the Pirates to the tune
of 40-6.
The outstanding players in the Reserve Grade team were Russell Gardner,
Billy Dietrich, Russell Thomas and Danny Piesley.
Unfortunately, the Pirates u/19 team could not be part of the victory
celebrations on the day after they suffered a 44-19 loss to Coffs
Rugby. The kicking game by the Pirates was not at its best. The
Pirates repeatedly failed to find touch from kicks or alternatively
placed it straight into the hands of the Coffs attack. Coffs centre
Josh Rayner repeatedly caused problems for the Pirates defence and
crossed for the Coffs team on two occasions and repeatedly set up
attacking moves and tries for his team.
The Coffs team raced to a 20-0 lead by the 29th minute. Just prior to
the break Sam Williams burrowed through the Coffs defence to put the
Pirates on the scoreboard.
The second half start saw Jack Goreham save a certain Coffs try with
strong defence that thwarted an overlap that Coffs had created.
The sixteenth minute of the second half saw hooker Nick Maxwell get
under the Coffs defence and score after a fine attacking move created
by Sam Meadows. The conversion of this try saw Coffs retain a lead of
34-12.
Coffs scored again in the 19th minute. to take their lead to 39-12.
Sam Meadows was rewarded with a five pointer after an evasive run which
evaded the tight Coffs Rugby defence. With the score now at 39-19 the
young Pirates did not give up and continued to provide opposition to
the Coffs team.
Right on full time the Coffs team crossed for another unconverted try
and this gave the final score of 44-19.
Although outclassed on the day the young Pirates are looking forward to
the return match in Port Macquarie in round 13.
The day ended with the Pirates completely outclassing the assembled
Coffs teams and winning the "boat races".
Pirates v Coffs Breakers
The dismal weather conditions of last week which played havoc with
sport in the Mid North Coast did not deter the Port Macquarie
Pirates in their continuation of the good form they have displayed in
the Mid North Coast Rugby Union competition this season.
The Pirates traveled to Coffs Rugby Park to engage the Coffs Harbour
Breakers.
The match was played on a muddy and slushy second field as the main
field was unplayable. This was expected to have the game played in
tight conditions dominated by close play and any advantage going to the
team which could maintain possession on the less than desirable playing
surface.
The Westport Club sponsored Pirates outfit not only adapted to the
conditions but delivered an awesome display of wet weather rugby.
The Pirates accounted for the Breakers with a resounding 48-7 victory.
The Pirates had relinquished their home ground advantage for this game
to allow the Breakers to have the game at Coffs Harbour due to ground
unavailability later in the season for the Breakers.
In another display of forward power, the smaller Pirates front men
dominated the larger Breakers forward group.
Of the forwards Andrew Lawrence gave another impressive display. He was
ably supported by Chad Joseph and Ben Nolan. These players all received
points in the best and fairest points.
Again the backs showed their class by playing dry weather football in
wet weather conditions.
Jordan Macey and Tom Emes each came away with a hat trick of tries.
Macey started with an intercept try after the Pirates had forced play
well into the Breakers half. As the Breakers attempted to move play
from their line after a line out win. The skillful hands of Macey
combined with his pace, saw Macey start the account for the Pirates.
The Breakers leveled the score shortly after as the Pirates went
through a flat period.
From that point on it was all Pirates.
The defence of the Pirates was outstanding. In one period in the second
half, The Breakers hammered the Pirates line for a through many phases
of play, only to be repulsed each time.
Matt Mane suffered a dislocated finger and switched to the wing with
Tom Emes moving to the centres. Emes again showed his immense skill in
this position, constantly worrying the Breakers defence.
Aaron Robinson had a strong game at half back.
Captain Coach Jordan Macey said " Our speed off the defensive line
continually thwarted any attacking chances the Breakers may have had"
The Reserve Grade team despite having a full team and a full bench
struck the inform Coffs Rugby team and went down 27-0. The Coffs team
have been playing strongly all year and this continued on Saturday. The
Coffs team ran to a 20-0 lead at half time. However, the Pirates
Reserves stuck to their guns and contained the Coffs team to a 27-0
scoreline.
With a general bye next weekend to allow for representative fixtures,
The Pirates who are not involved in the representative fixtures can
have a well earned rest before traveling to Coffs Harbour the following
weekend to take on the Coffs Harbour Crushers.
Pirates v Vikings
The day did not start well with constant rain and overcast
conditions. The Westport Club sponsored Port Macquarie Pirates ventured
across town to the lair of the Hastings Valley Vikings. The two teams
held first and second position on the Mid North Coast Rugby Union
competition. It was always going to be a hard day.
From the outset the Port Macquarie Pirates attempted to utilise the
speed and finis of their outstanding backline. The Vikings were not
going to let the Pirates have their own way. Each foray by the
Pirates backs was counter matched by the Vikings as they continued to
turn the ball inside for their big men to do the hard yards.
The game started on a sour note for the Pirates with Darryl Thompson
incurring the wrath of the referee for a dangerous tackle and being
shown a yellow card and having to spend ten minutes in the sin bin.
During this period the Pirates continued to attack the Vikings defence.
When the Vikings had charge of the ball they encountered resolute
Pirates defence.
A penalty goal in the 23rd minute of the First Grade fixture saw the
Vikings trouble the scorer for the first time in the day.
The Pirates came back in the 27th minute with Jordan Macey showing his
brilliance and speed to completely outwit the Vikings defence to score
wide out and then convert his try with a sensational conversion from
the sideline. The try was the result of clever kick through which
changed the momentum of the play to the Pirates advantage.
This gave the Pirates a 7-3 lead.
Three minutes later Dave Dunstead crashed over for the Vikings to give
the Vikings a 8-7 lead.
Right on the half time bell Jordan Macey converted a penalty to
additional points to give the Pirates a 10-8 advantage at half time.
The first minute of the second half saw bullocking Pirates centre Matt
Maney give the Pirates some breathing space with a try in the south
western corner of the field. Macey converted to take the Pirates to a
handy 17-8 lead.
Four minutes later the Vikings received a penalty within kicking
distance and chose to take a kick at goal rather than test the Pirates
defence. This penalty brought the Vikings within 6 points of the
Pirates.
The Vikings game lifted and they constantly attempted to breach the
Pirates defence, however, without success.
In the 30th minute of the second half Jordan Macey put the seal on the
game for the Pirates with a brilliant individual try where he ran a
deceptive attacking line, showing several dummy passes, each one
drawing the Vikings defence, before he scored untouched adjacent to the
goal posts. The try was not converted by Macy but the 11 point gap gave
the Pirates a confidence boosting lead.
In the latter part of the game some illegal play entered the game. A
scuffle between David Barnes and replacement forward Jamie Moore earnt
the pair a yellow card each. The scuffle between the players continued
over the side line resulting in referee Dave Miller intervening between
the miscreants.
The Pirates continued to attack the Vikings line putting further
pressure on their opponents.
The 40th minute of the game saw the biggest "hit" of the game when Chad
Joseph lined up a Vikings forward. Unfortunately this resulted in a
yellow card for Joseph.
The final score was in the Pirates favour to the tune of 22-11. This
now gives the Pirates a bigger gap in the competition table and a handy
start to the second round of the competition.
The lighter Pirates forwards showed great determination against the
Vikings. The fitness of the forwards was a contributing factor in their
ability to control the Vikings forwards, who have troubled all the
other teams in the Mid North Coast competition.
The ability, speed and cohesiveness of the Pirates backs continues to
cause problems for their opponents. The speed and
brilliance of Tom Emes, Darryl Thompson and Tom Valentine combined with
the power and strength of Matt Maney had the Vikings troubled all day.
the halves combination of Aaron Robinson and Jordan Macey created
many opportunities for the outside men.
In the forward pack Bruno Bourke, Rob Mooney, Heath Morgan, Lucas Webb,
Andrew Lawrence, Chad Joseph and Ben Nolan each played themselves to a
standstill against the heavier Vikings pack.
1ST GRADE PIRATES 22 def VIKINGS 11.
RESERVE GRADE.
With second grade captain coach Robert Duffy sidelined for Saturdays
fixture, Duffy endured the pain of not being involved personally in the
game with his charges. Duffy however gave his team a game plan
and they stuck to that plan.
The forward power of the Pirates big men John Nicholson, Loni Akaveka
and Adam Lysle caused constant worry to the Vikings. On the bench was
the awesome power of Nigel Thurston, who when injected into the game
caused havoc to the opposition.
The game was played amongst the forwards for most of the early part of
the game.
A quick break by the Pirates backs resulted in Mark harris crossing the
try line only to be recalled for an earlier forward pass.
Billy Dietrich was every where in attack and defence. From Dietrich's
game on saturday it is assured he will have the first grade forwards
looking over their respective shoulders.
A wide out try by Adam Mascord put the Pirates on the score board. This
try was not converted and the Pirates Reserves went to the break with a
5-0 lead.
In the second half back Chris Turnham showed his ability and
class with a very good backline try which he also converted to give the
Pirates the edge at 19-0.
In the 22nd minute of the second half classy half Chris Cain took the
ball from a scrum win and darted through the clutching Vikings defence
to score adjacent to the posts. Chris Turnham converted to give the
final score of 19-0 to the Pirates.
Outstanding for the Pirates reserve team were Chris Cain, Chris
Turnham, Danny Piesley, Monty Davis and Nigel Hurlston.
Coach Robert Duffy said after the game. "The lads have excelled
themselves. This was always going to be a very hard game and they have
achieved everything I have asked of them".
RESERVE GRADE PIRATES 19 defeated VIKINGS 0
U/19
The day started with a dour game between the future talent of the
Pirates and the Vikings. The only time the scorer was troubled during
the game was as a result of a penalty against the Vikings which Justin
Lowe converted to points. The score was 3-0 to the Pirates at half time.
Sam Williams played his usual high class game in both attack and
defence. Scott Munro's reliability in attack and defence was ever
present.
The Pirates as a team clearly outplayed the Vikings but could not
convert the advantage to points. The Pirates attacked for lengthy
periods only to be thwarted by last ditch Vikings defence.
The game was played in a stop start fashion with referee Shaun O'Brien
constantly interfering in the flow of the game.
Some of the decisions drew the ire of the partisan crowd.
For the Pirates the best on the field were Ben Mailo, Zac Shore, Justin
Lowe. The well deserved players player went to Sam Meadows.
PIRATES 3 def VIKINGS 0
The only let down for the Pirates on the day were the Vintage Ports who
could only manage a draw against the Wrinkled Horns.
Pirates Fire
The Westport sponsored Port Macquarie Pirates Rugby Club enjoyed a
dusty afternoon at Stuart Park on Saturday against the Kempsey
Cannonballs and the First XV came out of the sheds 'Firing'.
Initially both sides spread the ball left and right and the Referee was
even leading the cheer squad until the Pirates delivered the first blow
with a try and a confident conversion by Jordan Macey. With a spreading
and threatening backline working the eastern side of the ground, the
locals quickly swapped sides with confidence and scored twice again
together with the later try being converted by the Pirates' Captain.
As the dust was drifitng over the warm Stuart Park ground, the Pirates
utilised a Penalty to add to their early points to open the score up to
22 - 0 after only 20 minutes passing. With the confidence displayed in
these early stages, the Pirates seemed to think that a short nap on the
quarterdeck was now in order.
A few moments of quick play by the visitors caused the Pirates to take
some hesitating breaths as Kempsey crossed the line twice in a short
period of retaliation. The Pirates were puzzled as the score closed to
22 - 12.
Some frustrating moments for both sides followed as penalties became
the order before a combination of Matty Mane and Tom Vallentine opened
up Kempsey's backline and gave the cheering Mothers a breath of fresh
hope.
Eventhough the visitors continued to keep the Pirates in their own half
for some time, the Pirates safe hands of their back line found open
space again only to fall short of the line in front of their clubhouse.
This was only a short pause though as Scott Munro crossed the line
leaving the half time score at 29 - 12.
The coaching staff at half time were happy with the Pirates' effort
overall and encouraged the home side to stay sharp and remember their
defensive strengths shown in earlier games of the season.
After some powerful scrum work early in the second half, the ball was
passed out yet again which led to Jordan Macey finding the scoring zone
and converting his own try. Moments later, the Pirates swapped sides
again and spread it wide to put Scott Pagan over the line purshing the
score out to 43 - 12.
Some cheeky responsive play by the Cannonballs threw some caution in
the Pirates' sails again but the home side held their ground this time
and kept the visitors on their back feet. A try came shortly after for
the Pirates with Darryl Thompson adding to the points tally pushing the
score out to a dominating 50-12.
A gutsy attempt by the visiting backline down the eastern side of the
ground was put down by an even better response by the best and fairest
player, Nick Dobson as he managed to get the ball back into play after
it was kicked deep in the corner of the Cannonballs' scoring zone.
Some fresh blood off the bench for the Pirates saw Mark Harris and
Justin Lowe defending their side of the ground well but the Cannonballs
persisted and broke through to score late in the second half making the
score 50 - 17.
The Pirates' Sam Williams led some great defence of their line as the
Cannonballs found some new ammunition. This inspired a great line break
in the middle of the park which resulted in a try to finalise the
scoreboard at 57 - 17.
The Pirate's reserve grade side held their ground well despite a gutsy
effort by the visitors leaving the full timescore at 5 - 5. This side,
now led by the hatrick scoring Robert Duffy has been flushed with the
return of some local greats and a number of fast backs like Danny
Peisley. The under 19's defending premiers were troubled with their
loss to the Cannonballs albeit Zac Shore and newcomer Christo Wicken
played strongly. The final score for the young side was 26-15 in favour
of the visitors. More details about these games will be in Wednesday's
edition.
With the First XV now clearly dominating the ladder before the bye,
their next test will be their game against South West Rocks Gaolers in
two weeks. If the Pirates win this game, they will have played each
opposing team and won producing an unquestionable undefeated status.
Notwithstanding, this will make the rest of the competition keen to
demast the Pirates in future games so the local side will need to hold
their guard.
Pirates Crush Crushers
The Westport Club sponsored Port Macquarie Pirates returned to Stuart
Park Port Macquarie on Saturday after having defeated last years Mid
North Coast Zone Rugby Union premiers the Coffs Harbour Breakers. The
task for this Saturday was to challenge the other grand finalist from
last year.
The Crushers arrived with a large forward pack to contain the Pirates.
The scoring started in the second minute of the game with a penalty
goal to the Crushers after a Pirates ruck infringement.
The Pirates replied very quickly with an expansive backline movement
which found Lucas Webb supporting his back line and evading the
Crushers fullback to take the opening honours for the Pirates with a
wide out try.
The Pirates forwards continued on with their impressive form of past
weeks to easily match the Crushers forward power.
New boy Tom Emes who replaced the injured Matt Mane and had only just
stepped of an international flight the day, before inspired the
Pirates with his strong defence.
The Pirates backs consistently pressured the Crushers defence forcing
the Crushers into errors which created an imbalance amongst the
Crushers backline.
Pirates winger Simon Anderson made an impressive side line run after a
fast passing movement across the Pirates backline. This run threw the
Crushers defence into disarray. At a crucial moment adjacent to
the Crushers try line the ball was spilt by the Crushers attack.
The ensuing scrum saw the power of the Pirates pack as they pushed the
Crushers backwards.
The Pirates back line perhaps tried too hard in the early stages of the
game and handling errors crept into the game.
An error by the Crushers in the 22nd minute saw a penalty attempt by
Jordan Macey which added three points to the Pirates score.
The forwards were ably led by Rob Mooney whose crushing defence
continually had the Crushers looking for him.
The dominance of the forward's allowed the Pirates to spin the ball
wide to their elusive backs.
An injudicious kick by the harried Crushers backline was taken by Tim
Platt who carved the Crushers defence and then kicked ahead. The kick
resulted in a Crushers knock on. A penalty from the scrum deep in
Crushers territory saw the ball spun wide to Platt who crossed the try
line to take the score to 15-3 with the conversion attempt
unsuccessful.
The Pirates forwards defence plan was working extremely well. Each
forward did his job in defence and then quickly regrouped to
participate in attacking play.
In defence Ben Nolan, Nick Dobson, Chad Joseph were relentless, giving
no space to the Crushers forwards. Heath Morgan also tackled himself to
a standstill to such an extent that any attempts by the Crushers to
break out was quickly thwarted.
The Crushers when faced with any ball being kicked through failed to
attack the ball in defence and this allowed the ball to bounce and give
some opportunity to the Pirates.
The Crushers back line continued to kick to Tim Platt who each time
made huge inroads into the Crushers defence.
Just prior to the half time break the ball was passed out wide to
winger Chris Turnham who evaded two Crushers defenders, kicked ahead,
regathered and scored to have the half time score at 20-3.
The second half commenced at an intense rate with heavy defence by both
teams.
Scott Munro was everywhere in defence. The allround defensive game of
the Pirates was impressive to Captain Coach Jordan Macey.
After a succession of penalties awarded against the Pirates, Coffs
Harbour were able to cross the Pirates try line in the corner but were
unable to convert the try. The scores remained at 20-8.
Will Anderson had a strong game but unfortunately succumbed to an
injury in the 15th minute of the second stanza.
The Pirates appeared to back off for a short period by this was soon
corrected with a passing movement that covered the width of the field.
Ben Nolan, who had an outstanding game backed up the attack perfectly
to receive a pass that saw him sprint across the try line to score his
first try for the Pirates.
The conversion attempt by Darrell Thompson was successful and it gave
the Pirates a 27-8 advantage.
After the scoring of this try a short period of intense defence by both
teams ensued.
The Pirates appeared to be stuck in their 22 metre area until a precise
kick through saw the Crushers forced to kick the ball into touch. The
Pirates won the line out and applied pressure to the Crushers defence
and this resulted in a try being scored on the opposite side of the
field to the lineout by exciting centre Tom Emes. The conversion was
unsuccessful and the Pirates led by 32-8.
The Pirates appeared to be inspired by this passage of play and at the
35 minute mark another wide passing movement saw Darrell Thompson score
under the posts to give an easy conversion to Jordan Macey and allow an
impressive 39-8 lead to the Pirates.
Two minutes later Tom Emes showed great power and speed to burst
through the Crushers defence and place the ball over the Crushers try
line for the final score of 44-8.
The Pirates were impressive in all aspects of their play. The
play was bright, skillful and entertaining to the good crowd who came
along to enjoy the sunny autumn afternoon.
Aaron Robinson had a strong game at half back. Tom Emes formed a solid
combination with Darrell Thompson. Tim Platt played his usual strong
game that constantly worried the Crushers.
Port Macquarie Reserve Grade started their game against Southern Cross
University with strong defence by both teams. The game seemed to be
stalled in the centre of the field for some time until Steve Adams
broke out and scored the Pirates first try in the 16th minute.
Veteran forward Robert Duffy crashed over for the Pirates second try to
take the Piartes to half time with a 12-0 lead.
Duffy who is virtually unstoppable close to the opposing line crashed
over again in the 8th minute of the second half to take the Pirates to
a 17-0 lead in a somewhat disjointed game.
In a very good period of play Mark Harris was the recipient of some
good ball work to cross the line and give the Pirates an unassailable
lead 22-0.
The University scholars came back with a good try to put their first
points on the board for the day.
However, the game was not over for Robert Duffy who crossed for his
third try in the latter moments of the game.
Duffy was taken from the field to be given a well earnt rest after his
huge display.
The final score saw the Pirates victorious to the tune of 27=7.
The U/19's unfortunately were not to be part of the winning
celebrations for the Pirates.
The game was tight and the both teams were evenly matched. Nick
Maxwell crashed over for the Pirates to give the Piartes a 5-0 lead in
the 6th minute.
An attempted clearing kick in the 11th minute saw a charge down by the
Coffs Crushers. The subsequent try was converted by the Crushers to
give them a 7-5 lead.
Both teams were equal to their opponents. A feature of the game was
strong defence coupled with some exciting attacking play.
It is always worth coming to early games to see the enthusiasm of the
younger players. Skills are in evidence aplenty.
The 25th minute saw the Crushers youngsters score wide out to take a
12-5 lead.
Immediately on resumption of play in the second half the Crushers
forced the ball out wide to score in the corner. The score was 17-10 to
the Crushers
The remainder of the second half was a torrid affair. Many attempts
were made at scoring opportunities but no points were put on the board.
The final score favoured the Coffs Harbour Crushers to the tune of
17-10.
Best on the field for the Pirates were Nick Maxwell, Sam Williams,
Scott Munro, Luke Woodhouse. Martin Roods. and Justin Lowe.
Martin Roods continues to impress with his speed and confidence in both
attack and defence.
Pirates Rolls On (Port News
26/3/10)
AFTER a strong hit-out in the first trial game
of the year, the Westport Port Macquarie Pirates rugby union team
enjoyed solid training sessions this week.
Captain-coach Jordan Macey indicated to his
players that he was looking to build on combinations in
tomorrow’s matches against Barraba and Muswellbrook at Stuart
Park.
The only injury concern from last weekend’s
encounter was bruising to the neck, and chest soreness, to dual
tryscorer Simon Anderson.
Anderson is confident he will be fully fit –
and hoping to add more five-pointers to his tally.
Meanwhile, Tom Vallentine also returns to the team
tomorrow.
“I’m really keen to have a run,”
he said.
That showed at training where Vallentine’s
speed and elusiveness was evident in several planned moves.
“This week we’ve focused on building
cohesion and combinations,” Macey admitted.
“I’m hoping to, after tomorrow, have a
clearer picture on the First XV for the opening competition game
against the Hastings Valley Vikings on April 17.
“Heath Morgan and Greg Everson trained
particularly well and deserve inclusion in the top team.
“Forwards training was vigorous and each
player knows that a 100 per cent commitment is required both in matches
and on the training paddock.
“In the backline, Darrell Thompson combined
well with Tom (Vallentine).”
Another player determined to shine in 2010 is
Lucas Webb.
The 21-year-old is relishing his return to the
Pirates.
Webb, born in Port Macquarie, is the son of club
stalwart Max Webb.
The youngster, currently studying medicine at the
University of New South Wales, is working at Port Macquarie Base
Hospital as part of his studies.
“Lucas has played in the First XV for Barker
College Barker Old Boys and also for the Gordon Colts’ first
team,” Macey said.
“So, he’s a very handy addition to the
ranks.”
Tomorrow’s trial format is still being
developed with Barraba and Muswellbrook, however, kick off will be at
3pm.
With the high standard of rugby displayed seven
days ago, and the number of players available for selection, it is
expected that this benchmark will continue this weekend.
2009 AGM
The Port Macquarie Pirates Rugby Union Club held
its AGM on Monday 26th October.
The meeting was well attended at the clubs Stuart Park Clubhouse where
office bearers for season 2010 were elected.
With overwhelming support, popular club veteran Denis Roberson was
elected president. Denis has been involved with the Pirates for over
two decades and after a four year hiatus recently returned to Port
Macquarie. Life Member Max Webb was elected Vice president, Peter
Gerity retained his role as treasurer, and Adam Lysle was elected
club secretary.
The executive will be well supported with a very enthusiastic committee
of Charlie Brown, Bob Laing, Dale Hubbard, Scott Marks, Danielle Martin
and John Nicholson.
After taking the chair, Roberson thanked the outgoing committee
including former president Peter Besselling for the good shape the club
was in.
The Pirates will be looking to continue their run as the premier club
in Mid North Coast Rugby, having won a record 15 first grade
premierships in the competitions 35 year history.
Coaching staff are expected to be announced shortly for season 2010.
Pirates future looks bright
(Port News 7 September 2009)
THE future of the Port Macquarie Pirates looks bright after the under
19s upset the Kempsey Cannonballs 20-14 at Coffs Harbour on Saturday.
The 2009 grand final was played in front of a
large crowd, which included Wes Carr, winner of Australian Idol.
In the opening minutes, the Pirates gave away
three consecutive penalties, giving the Cannonballs easy metres.
Kempsey’s Matthew Carter crossed over the line and the successful
conversion enabled them to lead 7-0.
Kempsey made another great break from the
kick-off, looking to increase their lead, but a try-saving tackle by
Martin Roods saved the Port Macquarie outfit.
A few minutes later, Roods sprinted 40m, chipped
the ball over the Cannonballs and captain Chris Turnham regathered and
scored. Daniel Byrnes missed the attempt from the sideline and the side
trailed 7-5.
The constant work from the forward pack gave the
backs plenty of room to weave their magic, and Turnham, Byrnes and
Roods combined well to put pressure on the Cannonballs out wide.
Minutes before the break, the Pirates’
forwards drove the Cannonballs backwards, crossing the line twice,
however both tries were disallowed.
Straight after half-time, Port Macquarie had
another disallowed try.
A scrum penalty against Kempsey gave the Pirates
the advantage 5m in front, but the Cannonballs’ pack proved too
strong on this occasion, winning the ball against the feed. With some
great passing, Carter ran the length of the field and scored under the
posts. Scott Ritchie converted to extend the margin to 14-5.
The Pirates refused to surrender.
Thanks to some constant, basic rugby, the team
drove the Cannonballs backwards with Beau Tobler touching down to
reduce the advantage to 14-10.
With only minutes remaining, a penalty against
Kempsey allowed Port Macquarie to make easy metres. Following a big
push from the forwards, Tobler went over for his second try of the day.
Byrnes kicked the conversion, allowing the Pirates to hit the lead
17-14.
Then, with seconds left on the clock, a second-row
feed – against the Pirates – gave the Cannonballs a
short-arm penalty five metres from the tryline. But, some desperate
defence kept them at bay.
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