Roosters Open Season with Trials at Bendigo Bank Park

There was a strong crowd at Bendigo Bank Park in Ayr last Saturday as the Roosters kicked off their 2026 season with two trial matches.

The newly formed Under 19 side had a solid hit-out against Norths Devils from Townsville, with both teams fielding 14 players. The Roosters proved too strong, running out 48–6 winners after leading 28–6 at halftime.

Led by centre Chekaharne Taiters and five-eighth KJ Zaro, the Roosters crossed for nine tries, with eight different players getting on the scoresheet. Seven of those tries came from the backs, highlighting the team’s ability to move the ball.

Standout moments included halfback Jack Power scoring from 30 metres out with speed and footwork, and winger Riley Smith finishing in the corner after a perfect cut-out pass from Zaro. The forwards, led by Harrison Lammon, Mason Kiehne and Leylan Lampton, laid the platform, with Romeo Waem also impressing with his strong running and defence.

Coach Alfie Cantarella said the side is shaping well despite missing a couple of key forwards, and with a few more players, the squad will have strong depth.

In the senior trial, the Roosters faced 2024 and 2025 RLTD A Grade premiers Souths, going down 42–6 against a near full-strength opposition led by former PNG Kumuls captain Kyle Laybutt.

Souths fielded a quality lineup including Braiden Bin Doraho, Evander Hewson, Israel Osae, Curtis Dempsey, Ashden Lafferty, Robbie Storey, Jordan Remfrey, Jack Buss and Jayk Raukaki.

The Roosters side featured five returning players alongside new signings Jake O’Brien, Kai Tannia, Mitch Brown, Cooper Fletcher, Kurtis Cox, Wilson Selei and Ketali Kini.

Coach Steve Lansley said his side showed plenty of effort despite a heavy penalty count, noting they only lost the second session 12–6. He praised the efforts of Tate Brombal, Lachlan Shepherd, Terry Connors and the Munro brothers, Jones and Hayde, particularly in defence.

Lansley also thanked Under 18 players Harrison Lammon and Leylan Lampton for backing up after their earlier game. He highlighted strong performances from Mitch Brown, Nash Beck, Jake O’Brien and Cooper Fletcher, with O’Brien filling in at fullback.

Lachlan Shepherd scored the Roosters’ lone try, converted by Dylan Doak.

The Roosters will open their regular season on Sunday, April 12 at Jack Manski Oval against Brothers.

Contributed with thanks to Brian Carnes

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