Howard Salkow

Senior Journalist

The score line may not be a true reflection of the match, but the Port Douglas Reef Raiders rugby union team walked away with enough positives despite their 29-15 loss to Wanderers in their season opener on Saturday at the Port Douglas Community Centre.

It was in the final seven minutes of the game – Raiders had levelled the score at 15-15 – when Wanderers pounced on their opportunities and scored two converted tries. Up until this time, the Raiders dominated, but were unable to execute.

“It was a gutsy effort from the players. They gave it their all for the full 80 minutes and the score line doesn’t quite reflect how close the game was,” said Raiders coach Travis Gooch.

Wanderers started fast and scored an early try. With the ball in their possession, the Raiders were able to put a number of phases together and build some pressure, resulting in a try to Matt Mallard.

“We came out in the second half and managed to even up the scores at 15-all through a try to Clint Kachel. From there we were fairly dominant for long periods of time, but were unable to execute when it mattered. Wanderers ended up scoring twice in the last seven minutes to run away with the game.

“Overall, we were happy with the team’s performance with many new players and combinations having a run for the first time together. Our top performers for the day were Richard Johnston, Damien Friedrichs and Clint Kachel,” said Gooch.

The Raiders club can look back on a successful day and a well-attended feast of rugby which featured six A-Grade clubs.

Raiders’ points came from tries by Matthew Mallard and Clint Kachel; a conversion and penalty by Luke Edwards. Wanderers led 15-10 at halftime.

The Raiders play JCU at Ivanhoes, Smithfield at 4pm on Saturday. Their next home game is against Southside on May 15 at 5pm.

Scores from the other matches played at the community centre on Saturday:

Barron 34 Southside 12

JCU 57 Brothers 17