ANZAC Weekend
April 26, 2025
What a day for the women. With a short week and a few injuries, the girls had 5 players committed for a run. Thankfully with some swift recruitment we got 4 newcomers taking us to 9 for kick off. Against a strong 17 deep Hall team it was never going to be an easy feat.
In a very physical contest, with non stop hits up the middle and a fast moving opposition, the girls were working from start to finish. Any talk of calling it was quickly shut down as the girls persevered to finish the match.
A quick thinking try from Paige right on the half time whistle was just the motivation needed to push the girls into a strong second half. Massive repeat efforts by Zoe and the forward pack resulting in a second try at the end of the game.
With a bit more experience and the full numbers this team will be a force to be reckoned with.
Players of the day Stalds and Ella made endless repeat efforts in contact and quick moves up the outside. Lydia was an asset in the forwards, taking hits and shutting down strong Hall ball runners.
Hall, as expected, never let up and proved themselves a strong physical opponent to the final whistle, a gallant effort from the Easts girls to match them.
A well earned rest this week before gearing up for the seasons first Gala day the week after.
Final score: Easts 10 - 32 Hall
Points for the day:
3 points - Stalds
2 points - Ella
1 points - Lydia
Dick of the day went to Lydia for encouraging the team to stay on if they could, and then needing to come off herself after an injury.
Newcomers to the Canberra Suburban Cup in 2025, Hall promised to be tough, novel competition for the Magnificent Men.
Despite a quality lead-up to the match, Easts started poorly. A lack of physical intent & early injuries to key players, coupled with errors & ill discipline saw Hall gifted easy territory & possession. Being a quality side, they capitalised & shot to an early lead.
Though flurry’s of promising play were present for Easts, they failed to convert opportunities to points. Despite a frustrating first half for the team, starting openside Harry Henningsen was having a blinder. Pursuing contact like a bewitched Bludger, “Henno” created positive impact all over the field - dragging opposition “tacklers” over the advantage line, chopping ball runners for fun & seeing more breakdowns than a MAFS commitment ceremony. Looking to ensure the openside didn’t hog all the glory (again), blindside flanker Cian Jones got through a tonne of work, doing his best to keep Easts in the match.
Despite the flanker-pairing’s best efforts, Easts were at a heavy deficit when the halftime whistle sounded.
The much-needed break afforded Easts an opportunity to regroup. After a stern halftime talk, Easts commenced the second half firing on all cylinders. Driving up the middle of the field with intent, followed by some smooth backline interplay saw Vice-Captain Daniel Hopkins cross for 2 tries.
Finally back in the contest, Easts were competing hard and generating opportunities. Winger Jack Godfrey played an integral role through the match, not shying away from the tough stuff & leading several to ask why he insists on playing on the wing. As recipient of a few cross-field kicks, Jack ensured Easts always posed a threat out-wide.
Despite their brilliant start to the second half, Easts were unable to chase down the first half deficit. Hall worked themselves back into the contest & ultimately secured the win.
A tough loss at home for Easts, but the boys now look to correct their mistakes when they host Batemans Bay Boars this “election-day” Saturday. Early polls indicate an absolute ripper of a match.
Final score: Easts 12 - 32 Hall
Points for the day:
3 points - Harrison Henningen
2 points - Jack Godfrey
1 point - Cian Jones
Dick of the Day went to debutant Lachlan Dagwell, who in the post-match boat race, could’ve been timed with a calendar.