KENDALL Blues proved too strong for the Beechwood Shamrocks on Saturday 13 July, securing a resounding 42-18 win away from home.

The win came on the Shamrocks’ annual charity day, in support of the Mark Hughes Foundation and its mission to raise funds for brain cancer research.

The day held special significance for several key players of the Shamrocks who have recently lost family members to this cruel disease.

Saturday’s game was also the 100th appearance for Shamrocks player Chris Hudson.

As took the field for his century of games, Hudson was cheered on by a very enthusiastic crowd, celebrating not only the number of games played but also his character.

“I just love rugby league and can’t stop playing it,” Hudson told NOTA.

Shamrocks fullback Fred Hanley wasted no time once the game kicked off, crossing the tryline during Beechwood’s second set of six.

With a successful conversion, Beechwood took a 6-0 lead.

Kendall was quick to respond however, mounting a comeback through a Kaine Cafe try.

Chapman’s successful conversion levelled the game at 6-6

The momentum then swung in Kendall’s favour as Jye Rousell crossed the line for the Blues’ second try.

Chapman’s conversion extended the Blue’s lead to 12-6.

Rhys Hanlon then crossed the goal line for the Blues’ third try, with another Chapman kick taking the score to 18-6.

Blues speedster Jye Rousell maintained his strong form, scoring his second try of the match to further widen the gap to 24-6.

Just before halftime, Fred Hanley once again displayed his prowess by securing his second try for the Shamrocks.

At 24-12, the stage was set for a closely contested second half.

The second half began with Hanley making his mark once more, scoring his third try for Beechwood.

A successful conversion meant Beechwood was trailing the Blues by just six points.

With the intensity of the game lifting, Lachie Hardwick dashed over the tryline for the Blues.

Another flawless conversion extended the Blues’ lead to 30-18, before Luke Martin secured another try for his team, again converted by Chapman.

After a stellar Joel Kennedy pass, Taylor Eggins manoeuvred through the Shamrocks’ tired defence to score the last try of the game.

Chapman’s reliable boot secured another two points; the game ending 42-18.

Beechwood Shamrocks President Jason Brooks congratulated Kendall on their win.

“Kendall came prepared and were too good for us today, but we will bounce back and come good for next week,” Brooks told NOTA.

“Despite the loss it has been a fantastic day for our charity event, raising much needed funds for the Mark Hughes Foundation.”

Shamrocks captain Harry Handley described the contest as a “good physical game with both teams going out hard”.

“It was great to see Hudo celebrate his 100th game,” Handley said.

“He gave it a good crack and played a lot of minutes.”

Blues coach James Kennedy said the result was a “massive win for us in terms of our season”.

“They got the wood over us in the first round so it is good to get the win today on their home ground.

“Beechwood were great; it was a massive slug fest out there and I’m super proud of the boys for lifting and getting it over them.”

By Kim AMBROSE