A BATCH of rugby league players from the historic town of Karuah have covered themselves in glory at this year’s NSW Womens Country Rugby League Championships.

Talented prop Jess Neilson, centres Ebony Oakley and Lowana McDougall, five eighth Haley Dews and interchange Taquiah Lukaszewicz – all products of the Karuah Roos RLFC – were part of the powerful Newcastle Hunter Knights women’s representative side that finished runners up to Monaro Colts in the 2023 Women’s Country Championship trophy decider.

The Knights defeated Northern Tigers (20-6), Central Coast (12-10), North Coast Bulldogs (10-0) and Northern Rivers Titans (16-0) to finish top of their Pool in the Northern Division Conference staged at Coffs Harbour.

All conquering Monaro claimed top spot in the Southern Division Conference after toppling Riverina Bulls (22-14), Illawarra South Coast Dragons (32-10), Western Rams (28-0) and Macarthur Wests Tigers (26-4) in Queanbeyan.
There was no stopping the Colts in the Championship Grand Final with the Monaro team posting a 34-0 drubbing of the Knights at Leichhardt Oval.

A highlight was the class and pace of the Monaro back division with elusive winger Tijana Zdravevska (3), fullback Krystal Blackwell (2), centre Madyson Tooth and winger Lily Croker bagging all of the team’s seven tries.

Despite the Grand Final loss, the Knights can hold their heads high after producing stout-hearted efforts throughout the tournament.

The skilful Neilson made an impact with her power running and ball skills up front while crafty pivot Dews struck up a fine combination with sharp centres Oakley and McDougall.

Newcastle Hunter were ably led by inspirational lock and skipper Britney Duff with dashing fullback Amy Waterhouse also turning in superb displays.

The Knights were managed by Karuah Roos RLFC President and leading hooker Daniel Evans.

By Chris KARAS