Howard Salkow

Senior Journalist

Port Douglas Reef Raiders 22 (7) Barron Bulls Trinity 20 (15)

In recording their fourth successive win of the season, the Port Douglas Reef Raiders proved they have the capacity to come from behind and have a goal kicker who is adept at handling pressure.

Trailing 15-7 at half-time and then 20-15 with five minutes remaining, the Raiders drew level when wing Derek Letcher went over in the corner. It was now up to flyhalf Luke Edwards – among the season’s leading points’ scorers – to add the extra points from the touchline, or settle for a draw. Edwards held his nerve, made no mistake and the Raiders went on to win 22-20 and secure second spot on the log table.

The message at half-time – “hold on to the ball, be patient and the points will come” – was simple as was the season’s recurring theme: “believe in the structure, the game plan and yourselves.” All played out in this tight contest and coach Travis Gooch said he was very happy with how the back end of the season was going.

After starting the season with three losses and a draw, Gooch attributed the main factors of the turnaround to an increase in numbers from the start of the season allowing for a competitive team with a bench.

“Also the effort put in by all on the training paddock and the senior players within the team – Jack Murday, Esteban Correa and Adrian Bannerman – all leading from the front,” said Gooch.

After a slow start, the Raiders conceded two tries and Barron took a 12-0 lead. But they hit back in style when centre Esteban Correa launched an attack from 50m out, cut a hole in the opposition defence before sending Edwards over under the posts. His conversion cut the margin to 12-7.

But a high tackle by Edwards resulted in a yellow card and the penalty kick put Barron 15-7 ahead at the break.

Raiders got an early reprieve in the final stanza when Edwards goaled a penalty (15-10). This was short lived when Barron scored to increase their lead to 20-10 with 20 minutes remaining.

But the Raiders fought back when it mattered most. Centre Andrew Pena crossed over and then Letcher’s match-winning try sealed it.

Thank you!

Newsport would like to thank the following businesses on behalf of the readers for their direct contribution to coverage of Douglas Shire Community Sport.

Douglas Shire Council
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