The Snowy River Bears started their Group 16 first grade season with a roar and a convincing win over the Bombala Blue Heelers 58-10 in Jindabyne last weekend.
Noticeable from the outset was the speed of the two new wingers, Maika Rovouvou and Akuila Masima Masima who scored the opening try soon after the start. Rovouvou had a great debut game scoring three tries, two in the first half on the 13th minute and 21st minute to set the tone for the rest of the game.
Lookout for these Fijian flyers to be a constant threat to future opposing teams, and plenty of scoring opportunities to come.
Bombala’s Bailey Rogers scored their first try to trail 6-4 in the tenth minute, but it was the Bears on the charge from then on playing at times convincing and entertaining footy.
One of the hits of the season was Bears captain coach Josh Hitchins who nailed opposing fullback Daniel Douch. To his credit, Douch dusted it off and continued the game, but it certainly was a bell ringer of the highest order.
It was a bruising encounter for both forward packs, with hits aplenty stopping attacking play. Both sets of forwards continued to run strong, but it was the Bears who gained the ascendency allowing the backs to show their skill.
Adam Walters, John Field and Rowland Mateyawa played well, and Kadin Te Nana from hooker was elusive at times and scored a try. Off the bench Tristan Hamilton and Tupou Ahome’e had good starts to their season.
Brendon Taueki playing halfback chipped over the top for centre James Field to regather and score untouched eight minutes before half time and you could sense the flood gates may open.
John Field scored two tries, one with a burrowing run breaking several tackles to score adjacent to the posts. Fullback Dean Wilson picked up where he left off last season. His running the ball was a highlight, and a strength for the bears and with speedy flankers this season his role will be key. Wilson picked up two tries himself in the second half.
Brendon Taueki started his goal kicking off in style kicking seven goals and was strong with his organisation around the ruck.
The Blue Heelers may have been outscored in this local derby, but their desire was there and continued to the end.
Both teams had their moments with dropped ball and the Bears through unnecessary forward passes.
Akuila Masima was replaced in the second and then made the mistake of entering the field off the bench when it looked like there might be a scuffle near the sideline. He was sent for ten minutes in the sin bin and may need to be reminded of the rules.
Visitors to John Connors Oval in Jindabyne will welcome the new electronic scoreboard. Well done to all the teams who helped raise funds and Jindabyne Bowling Club for their assistance in financing the scoreboard.
see more photos in scrolling gallery above.
