Raiders overcome log leaders JCU Mariners
Rugby Union
Port Douglas 37 (18) JCU Mariners 24 (14)
A 37-24 victory over log leaders JCU Mariners; a five-try spree including a hat-trick and a forwards pack that laid the foundation for the backs to run with freedom aptly tells the story of the Port Douglas Reef Raiders’ success on the weekend.
And the question is being asked – after a slow start to the season – whether the Raiders are starting to peak as the business end of the season nears and they still have hopes of defending the Rainforestation Cup.
Beating a team that has now only lost twice and commands a healthy lead atop the log, was the boost the Raiders needed. Their ability to dominate possession and territory and capitalise on their opportunities, will be well received at training this week as they prepare for their away clash against Wanderers on Friday night at 7:30 at the Crabpot, Yorkeys Knob.
Raiders coach Travis Gooch said timing is everything.
“We spoke earlier in the season about getting our timing right with regards to peaking at the appropriate stage of the season. After a slow start, we feel like we are building well. But we are acutely aware there is a long way to go before cementing a playoff spot.
“And yes, we have taken a lot of confidence out of this win and more importantly, a new belief that we can beat the top teams in the competition,” he said.
With their abundance of possession, flyhalf Luke Edwards was the ideal pivot and his tactical kicking proved to be a headache for JCU. Fullback Trazana Cobb added his flair to the mix and by joining the line created overlaps.
Wing Dereck Letcher notched a hat-trick of tries while Edwards was duly rewarded with two tries. Edwards added three conversions and two penalties for a total of 22 points.
JCU ensured their presence was felt and runaway tries on either side of half-time kept them in the game, but the Raiders did not allow this to deter them.
Top Raiders performers were scrumhalf Wayne Oui, eighthman Jack Murday and prop Domonic Bell.
Other scores from weekend:
Southside 72 Brothers 14
Wanderers 31 Barron 12
How the Raiders have fared thus far this season:
Wanderers – Lost 29-15
JCU – Lost 45-10
Barron – Draw 27-27
Southside – Draw 17-17
Brothers – Won 27-12
JCU – Lost 34-6
Barron – Won 38-17
Brothers Won by default 36-0
Wanderers – Lost 14-10
JCU – Won 37-24
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