The Burdekin Roosters A Grade suffered another injury setback last Sunday, going down 32-22 to Western Lions in Townsville. After dominating Charters Towers in the second half last week, the forwards were expected to perform similarly against the Lions.
That didn’t happen. Last week’s player of the match, big forward Braedyn Cotter, went down injured in the first ten minutes and didn’t return. Soon after, recent signing and Fijian first-grader Kalevi Raluli injured a hamstring and was forced off. Coach Steve Lansley was left with just 15 men to rotate.
Lansley described it as a “heartbreaking loss” in a game marked by contentious officiating that seemed to go against the Roosters. Despite the effort, 50/50 calls consistently favoured the Lions.
Standouts were Lachie Sheppard, Colby Thompson, and Terrence Mosby. Sheppard excelled in attack and defence, Thompson’s creativity at nine kept Burdekin in contention, and Mosby constantly broke tackles, providing crucial go-forward.
Tries came from Terry Connors, Kali Nauque, Nemia Nawave, and Dylan Doak, with Doak kicking three goals. Disputed penalties and a tight no-try ruling shifted momentum at key moments, allowing the Lions to edge ahead in a tight second half.
The reserves went down 52-16 to a powerful Western Lions side. The Lions’ speed and mobility proved too much for the Roosters, who have had a mixed season. The loss eliminates finals hopes, though the season unearthed talent for the future. Tries were scored by Llama Ghee, Bokeem Reid (2), and Sakuisi Dreunimolea.
Other Results
A Grade: Brothers 22 d. Charters Towers 18, Norths 26 d. Herbert River 24, Souths 32 d. Centrals 18
Reserve Grade: Charters Towers 32 d. Brothers 28, Herbert River 44 d. Norths 16, Souths 40 d. Centrals 22, Bowen bye
Women: Brothers 22 d. Charters Towers 4
This Weekend
The final regular-round games see the Roosters host Herbert River on Saturday (reserves 3pm, A Grade 4.30pm). Centrals host Western Lions, Charters Towers and Souths have byes in A Grade. Towers visit Bowen in reserves and women’s matches.
Coach Lansley will welcome Tate Brombal back in the forwards and may blood some reserves. Herbert River, third on the ladder in both grades, will bring strong teams despite losing their last two A Grade games. The Roosters plan a big post-game celebration with a live band.
Contributed with thanks to Brian Carnes
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