Both the First and Reserve Grades trampled their Cooma opposition during the mountain men’s Reunion Day on Saturday. 

Dirty Reds captain coach Boyd Newby said that Cooma was certainly ready for a tough encounter but so were the Reds players who made the trip. Because the Reds were a little lower than usual on numbers several players backed up for both games. 

“Our reserves have been strengthened by the boys coming up from the under 18s this year and they have certainly made an impact on the side,” Newby said. 

“They have been putting in the effort with training and their fitness at this end of the season has shown a marked improvement in the way they are able to put their game plan together. 

“They are coming good at the right end of the season, and still remain unbeaten.

“Cooma are a good side but our Reserves were able to maintain and gain the major share of possession throughout the game and did not allow many gaps in their defending.

“We were able to run over the top of Cooma with a 69-5 win.

“Match fitness has been one of our primary aims for both teams throughout the season and the First Grade side showed the home side that our players could not only play a full game but maintain the momentum for much longer when required. 

“It was fortunate for both sides that the game was played in Cooma as the field condition there was quite good unlike our ground which was waterlogged from the rain and snow of the past fortnight.”

One of the keys to Goulburn Dirty Reds’ winning performance has been their very solid defence and covering their opponents moves right across the ground.

This has consistently resulted in the major share of possession which they have been able to use to get the ball over the line.

Strong accurate kicking has allowed them to push play back into their opponents half and the ability to regain possession has provided both grades with scoring opportunities.

The First Grade Dirty Reds side, like the Reserves, were able to maintain their undefeated record on Saturday steamrolling Cooma with a 57-17 point win.

Newby thanked his opposition for their hospitality on Saturday and wished them well for the rest of the season, saying that he hoped they could continue to attract good crowd support to their home games. 

“We all appreciate the support from spectators on the sideline and we hope that Goulburn will do the same for us when we play Yass on Saturday,” Newby said.

“Yass is another side that is showing great improvement with later season fitness and we expect a tough game.

“Though the times have not yet been decided we are hoping the games can be brought forward by half an hour on Saturday because of our annual Rugby Ball.

“Players and supporters of the other sides in our competition are welcome to attend. We are hoping that some of the Yass contingent will make a night of it and join us for what should be a great night.”

The ball starts at 6.30pm at the Goulburn Workers Club and there are still plenty of tickets available so contact Matt Klem on 0402 060 342 or Liz Clarke on 0421 189 157 and make up a table, join friends on their table or be matched up with a friendly group.