Thursday, May 15, 2025

Issue:

Mackay and Whitsunday Life

Roosters Show Strong Fight Despite Injury Setbacks in RLTD Season Opener

The RLTD season kicked off after the Easter break with some exciting matches across the board. Centrals hosted Charters Towers, Western Lions travelled to Brothers, Burdekin faced the reigning premiers Souths at Junior League grounds, and Norths took on the Crushers in Ingham.

In A-grade, the Roosters were without key players Terence Mosby, Braedyn Cotter, and Josh Hunt. Coach Steve Lindley called up three reserve players, leaving the reggies short-handed. Despite this, the Roosters fielded a youthful side, including four from last year's under-18 grand final team. They performed admirably against Souths, losing 32-16, with two tries scored in the final 10 minutes by the Redmen. A knee injury to former Warrington player Alfie Mather further complicated matters. Forward Lachlan Shepherd was a standout, supported by Aiden Arisa, who scored two tries. Coach Lindley was pleased with the effort, noting that with more experience, the young team could have taken the win. Aiden Arisa and Joel Mason scored tries, while Jye Olsen kicked two goals.

In other A-grade results, Charters Towers defeated Centrals 18-16, Brothers beat Western Lions 42-12, and Herbert River triumphed over Norths 30-22.

In reserve grade, Roosters coach Peter Horan acknowledged that facing a strong side like Souths without a full lineup proved difficult, with the team falling 60-12. Despite this, young players like Jack Rushton and Tate Bombal showed promise. In other reserve matches, Charters Towers defeated Centrals 18-4, Brothers beat Western Lions 32-10, and Herbert River defeated Norths 30-22.

The women’s teams saw Western Lions defeat Brothers 16-14, while Centrals triumphed over Charters Towers 44-0.

This weekend, the Foley Shield will be held in Townsville, with Roosters' Abbey King and Martina Monday representing the women’s team.

In other news