Snappers and Marlins play out classic derby match where “crowd definitely got their money’s worth” Coffs Coast Sport News Of The Area by News Of The Area - Modern Media - June 11, 2021 Strong camaraderie between the Snappers and Marlins with an ingrained set of values. THE Snappers and Marlins played five matches of rugby across all grades last Saturday, where after two wins apiece the scene was set for the men’s first grade to put on a classic derby which the Marlins won by one point, defeating the Snappers 25-24. In a match that Marlins coach AJ Gilbert described as having everything, the points put the Marlins back in contention for a finals spot in the Mid North Coast Rugby Union competition. “It was a classic Marlins versus Snappers derby. “It had everything, big hits, entertaining tries, yellow cards, all in scuffles and was anyone’s game in the last 10 mins. “We needed that win to keep us in the hunt for both the Des Hoy cup and Pottsy shield, the crowd definitely got their money’s worth yesterday,” said AJ. Snappers coach Brendan Hoy saw room for improvement in what he thinks is the tightest competition in years. “We were below our best, there’s room for improvement, we were a little bit one dimensional and that played into their hands and we lacked discipline. “Kempsey also had a win at the weekend so this comp is very close, it’s going to take a few more wins than normal this year to make the finals, every team is struggling with injuries,I think this is the closest comp in years,” said Brendan. Whilst the intensity was high on the field there was an overwhelming camaraderie after the matches as the teams lined up to shake hands and congratulate their opponents as Snappers spokesperson Tim Chapman explained to News Of The Area. “From senior rugby right through to our juniors(14 to 18 years) and Whipper Snappers (8 to 12 years) rugby games have an ingrained set of values and never was it more evident than in our games on Saturday. “Our 14s were on the end of a rugby lesson from the Marlins and they won graciously and we accepted the defeat with improvement needed. “Snappers 16s were looking to turn around a couple of losses and picked up this week in our home game. “They toppled the most consistent team and ladder leaders in a dominant display setting a mental and physical benchmark for next week,” said Tim. Mid North Coast Rugby Union results: First grade : Snappers 24-25 Marlins Women 10 : Snappers 38-10 Marlins Second XV: Snappers 10-49 Marlins Under 16s : Snappers 24-7 Marlins Under 14s : Snappers 0-69 Marlins By David WIGLEY Beau Lynch receiving the pass to drive the Snappers under 16s forwards. Kalob Stone on the attack for the Snappers. Max Clark piercing the defence with a try for the Marlins in the under 14s.
