THERE are times in sport when you can draw satisfaction and enjoy the rewards despite experiencing defeat.

And this is exactly the motivation the Reef Raiders rugby union team needed notwithstanding their 17-7 loss to the much-fancied Mudcrabs at the Port Douglas Sports Complex on Saturday.

At the post-match huddle, everyone was praised for producing an all-round solid display against the reigning Premiers who are currently second on the log table.

“This was a great game of rugby and every member of the team can be proud of how well they acquitted themselves. We went into this match with a point to prove: and by taking the game to the Mudcrabs, we surprised many who thought this would be a one-way affair,” said coach Stewart Cowe.

“To concede only three tries tells the story of the match. We produced a high level of determination for 80 minutes and we also showed that we can hold our own against the best in the competition.

“Had we been more liberal with our passes and released the ball at key moments, we would have scored at least one more try,” he said.

Solid first-time tackling was a key factor in the encounter as the Raiders put their bodies on the line and thwarted many a Mudcrabs attack. It was impressive to see the slightly-built hosts take on the bulkier visitors.

What still warrants discussion is why the Raiders do not capitalise on goalable penalty opportunities. Nine points went begging on three occasions and all within reach. It’s not that the Raiders do not have a goal kicker!

The Raiders’ points came from a lone try by Hugh Carey, converted by Chase Hay, in the 23rd minute of the second half. Following a tap penalty near the opposition line, Carey broke free from loose play and ran 15 metres to score under the posts.

The Mudcrabs scored two unconverted tries in the first half and led 10-0 at the break; and crossed over for a converted try in the final period.

This Saturday, the Raiders host the Cairns Wanderers RUC in their penultimate match of the season.