Lake Cathie-Bonny Hills juniors take strong form into finals series Camden Haven Sport Property/Sports/Opinion - popup ad Sport by News Of The Area - Modern Media - August 22, 2024 U15s captain Angus Brown rips through the opposition defence. THE Lake Cathie-Bonny Hills Junior Rugby League Club is riding a wave of success after securing two key finals series victories. Taking on a formidable Taree Panthers side at Port Regional Stadium on Sunday, 18 August, the Raiders under 14s emerged victorious with a hard-fought 24-18 win in the Tier 2 competition. The side was led by the outstanding performance of Liam ‘Nails’ Brown, who scored an impressive hat-trick of tries. An Ethan Bouldin try in the closing moments sealed the team’s hard-earned victory, propelling them into a sudden death finals showdown. Bouldin expressed pride in the team’s performance, acknowledging the tough challenge posed by their opponents. “It was a tough game today,” Bouldin told News Of The Area (NOTA). “Taree played hard and we had to fight it out to the very end, but I managed to score a lucky try at the end of the game and it got us there. “We will come back next week and bring it to whoever we verse.” Under 14s coach Michael Nixon commended the team’s tenacity and ability to persevere. “It was a good, tough game,” Nixon told NOTA. “We stuck it out and brought the win home to live to fight another day.” Also tasting success was the Raiders under 15s side, with an 18-8 victory against Forster Tuncurry in their Tier 2 semi final earning them a direct spot in the grand final. Team captain Angus Brown’s exceptional skills were on full display, scoring three pivotal tries. While Brown told NOTA he felt “pretty hyped” by his performance, he identified areas he and his team can improve on. “We need to ensure we get back onside quickly, to avoid giving silly penalties away,” he said. “These mistakes provided scoring opportunities for Forster.” Under 15s coach Darrel Thompson noted his team’s increased intensity in the second half as a contributing factor in their comeback. He also highlighted the influential performances of “leaders” Angus Brown and Aidan Hardy. “They really stepped up today and made themselves known,” Thompson said. “Carrying some of the team members when needed.” The club’s under 14 Boys and under 16 Girls are facing “do or die” elimination finals this weekend. By Kim AMBROSE U15s player Sam Harris on the attack with Beau Tougher in support. Team celebrations for the U15s after another Angus Brown try. U14s talent Liam ‘Nails’ Brown crosses the try line for the Raiders. Ethan Bouldin’s try in the closing moments of the match secured the win for the Raiders U14s. The U14s at half-time, on their way to victory.
