Rep side trials at Woy Woy

The Central Coast representative rugby union side played in its second trial game before the start of the NSW Country Championship at Woy Woy on February 28.

The match was played out in warm conditions with Central Coast defeating Gordon 43-26.

"Central Coast had an excellent hit out against Gordon in their second trial game before the start of the NSW Country Championships in March," Central Coast Rugby Union president Mr Larry Thomson said.

"The local side played some excellent rugby in what was a performance that would have left coach Ross Hopkins very pleased about the efforts of his players.

"The Central Coast side played some excellent rugby and showed very good team effort in what is only their second game together.

"The Gordon side was a mixture of players from all their grades and proved to be very formidable opponents.

"It was the perfect game for the local side in the lead up to the NSW Country Championships."

According to Mr Thomson, the first half was a very even affair with the Central Coast side going to the break leading by only 17 points to 14.

"It was a very warm afternoon for rugby and the conditions did really test the condition of the players," Mr Thomson said.

"The Central Coast scrum was excellent, while the backline did really put some excellent moves together.

"Both teams ran the ball from all sections of the field and the very good crowd was entertained by some free flowing rugby.

"All players played well for the Central Coast and coach Ross Hopkins will have a very difficult task in sorting out his final selection for the Country titles in March.

"In the forwards Brett Marchant was excellent, both in the lineout and in general play and was rewarded with an excellent try just before halftime.

"Peter Steele was strong in the line-out, while hooker Chris Comerford was all over the paddock in a good effort.

"Other forwards to shine were flanker Ryan Metcalfe, loose forward Emile Thomas and prop Shannon Beavan.

"Paul Sullivan, a newcomer to the local representative side, was excellent in the second row and was a dominant force all game.

"The tussle between the two backlines was a beauty.

"Both backlines had speed and the battle was very even but the local boys were able to make vital breaks in the second half.

"It was in the second half that the Central Coast were able to get on top, particularly in the backline.

Mr Thomson said players such as fullback Ben Shine, wingers Daniel Fenton and Declan Shepherd, and centre Jono Hurst had outstanding games.

"Tim Hill showed his experience with a steady game that got the outside backs on the go forward," Mr Thomson said.

"Half Luke Sullivan was everywhere in attack and defence.

"It was an excellent game of rugby played before an excellent sized crowd."

Press release, 1 Mar 2009 Larry Thomson, Central Coast Rugby Union