Return to Lidcombe -This Saturday

Western Suburbs Magpies return to historic Lidcombe Oval on Saturday, March 3, for a gala day of rugby league.

The ‘Return to Lidcombe’ day features three grades of rugby league with the main match being the opening round clash in the VB NSW Cup between arch rivals Western Suburbs Magpies and Manly Sea Eagles.

A Limited Edition 'Return To Lidcombe' T-Shirts will be on sale at the ground for $25.

Admission is $10 adults, children U16 $5.

Match Day schedule
Gates open: 11.30am
Harold Matthews, 12.45pm: Western Suburbs v Newcastle
SG Ball, 1.55pm: Western Suburbs v Newcastle.
VB NSW Cup, 3.30pm: Western Suburbs v Manly

Western Suburbs Magpies NSW Cup team
1. Amanono Tovio
2. Merv Williamson
3. Dale Roberts
4. Michael Lekkas
5. Daniel Perkins
6. Chris Nay
7. Nigel Millgate (C)
8. Jay Maseuli
9. Todd Aault
10. Aaron Sweeney
11. Tom Morrison
12. Seffa Silafau
13. Alex Frail

Interchange
14. Henry Iuta
15. Todd Makejev
16. John Leiataua
17. Lionel O’Meley
18. Daniel La Manna
19. Aaron Teariki
20. Trent Touma
Coach: Trevor Schodel

Team Doctor Needed

The Western Suburbs District Rugby League Football Club Ltd. (The Magpies) are seeking the services of a new Club Doctor for their VB NSW Cup Side in 2012.

The role would entail the Doctor to work at all of the Magpies Club Home Games (12 matches) including their ‘Return To Lidcombe’ clash and their usual Nest at Campbelltown Sports Stadium.

Games are played on Saturdays from 3pm. This is a paid position (negotiable*) and is a great opportunity for any aspiring Doctor who wants to gain experience in Sport and a foot in the door into Rugby League.

The opportunity to progress into the NRL would be advantageous and a natural progression. The role would start effectively on Saturday 3rd March 2012.

Expressions of interest can be made to:

Daniel Watson-Hayes Director - Operations Manager | WSDRLFC Ltd. (The Magpies) Est. 1908
M: 0411 016 157
E: D.Watson-Hayes@westsmagpies.com.au

Wests 1992 NSWRL President's Cup Premiership - 20 yr Anniversary

The magpies celebrate another anniversary - 20 years since the last senior grade title - the 1992 NSWRL President's Cup.

The magpies defeated the favourites, St George who had in their ranks future dragons coach, Nathan Brown plus Gorden Tallis.

The magpies side contained current Parramatta NRL coach, Stephen Kearney and future Country Origin player, Ciriaco Mescia and others who would go on to play first grade for the magpies.

The magpies defeated St George in a gigantic struggle that was in doubt until a field goal by half back Josh White gave the magpies a 15 to 14 win and the premiership.

Stephen Kearney got the ball rolling for Wests with try after he made a block busting run 15m from the dragons tryline busting tackle after tackle. The dragons responded through an intercept try with Wests attacking on the dragons 20m line and added to their tally with a further try through Tallis.

In the second half, tries to centre, Evan Cochrane and lock Matt Ryan seemed to wrap up the title for Wests until a Nathan Brown try after he scooted down the blindside from dummy half. The game looked headed for extra time but then up stepped Josh to kick the winning field goal.

SOUTHS GAME TRANSFERRED FROM SCG TO SFS

The SCG Trust has advised Wests Tigers that the Sydney Cricket Ground will be unavailable for the Round 5 Telstra Premiership clash against South Sydney Rabbitohs.

The match has been transferred to the adjacent Sydney Football Stadium and will still be played on the same day and time – Sunday, April 1, at 3.00pm.

The unavailability of the ground is a consequence of the demolition and construction work about to start at the SCG following the recent announcement of the $186 million stage two upgrade of the SCG Masterplan.

Wests Tigers were informed by the SCG Trust that the MA Noble, Bradman and Dally Messenger Stands will be decommissioned in March following the current cricket season.

The degree of uncertainty surrounding the extent of the works at the time of the match deems it unsuitable to host an NRL fixture of this magnitude.

“Although disappointed we can’t stage this game at the SCG, we have arranged an amazing schedule of activities that will commemorate the history of the Western Suburbs Magpies,’’ Wests Tigers CEO Stephen Humphreys said.

“A feature focus of the day will be the celebration of the 60th anniversary of the 1952 Western Suburbs Magpies versus Souths Grand Final – the last first grade premiership won by the Magpies.

“As part of the entertainment, we will pay tribute to former players from both 1952 sides. The day will also play host to the Western Suburbs Magpies annual reunion – the first time such an event has been held at a Wests Tigers game.

“We are delighted to be able to host some of the former great Magpies players such as Noel Kelly, John Hayes, Tommy Raudonikis and Trevor Cogger to name a few.”

Wests Tigers will also play in a replica of the 1952 Western Suburbs Magpies jersey.

Former Magpies player and current Western Suburbs Chairman Mick Liubinskas said he was very much looking forward to the day.

“Wests Tigers have been working closely with Western Suburbs Magpies to develop a fitting tribute to our Club’s proud history,’’ he said.

“I hope as many Wests Tigers and Western Suburbs Magpies supporters get to the game to enjoy what will be a tremendous occasion.”

Tickets for this Round 5 match and the Round 6 match against the Broncos will be on sale from 10am Thursday February 23rd.

To purchase call Ticketek on 132 849.

25yrs of Magpies to be celebrated at Campbelltown

A WALL of fame celebrating the Western Suburbs Magpies is just one of the ideas suggested as the rugby league club gets set to celebrate 25 years in the Macarthur region.

The club is seeking ideas on how to mark the anniversary milestone.

Other ideas so far have included a mural depicting the Magpies’ history and merger with Balmain to form the joint venture club Wests Tigers, a past and present players’ hall of honour and a magpie statue.

Magpies marketing and operations manager Daniel Watson Hayes welcomed the ideas. He said he particularly liked the suggestion of a wall of fame.

“They all have a lot of merit, but a wall of fame or plaque at the stadium would go down particularly well,” he said. “I like the idea of photos of former player greats lining the tunnel - similar to ANZ Stadium.

“How inspiring would that be for players as they run out on to the field?”

Watson Hayes said it would be fitting to honour the Magpies, particularly the teams of the 1990s whom he believed were the cornerstone of the club’s success of the modern era. “I think about the talent of the McGuinness brothers, John Skandalis, Paul Langmack . . . that’s what we should be tapping into,” he said.

Campbelltown Council general manager Paul Tosi said he would welcome approaches from the Magpies to discuss the issue.

OTHER THOUGHTS ON THE ISSUE

We share a wonderful history and together we have a terrific future. I look forward to working with the council and the Wests representatives to find the best way to share and celebrate our history.
STEPHEN HUMPHREYS
Wests Tigers CEO

The Magpies are an important part of Campbelltown’s sporting history and we value the contribution they’ve made. We’d like to hear from the Magpies so we can take any proposal they suggest to council.
ANOULACK CHANTHIVONG Campbelltown Mayor

A walk of fame sounds like a great idea to me. There are so many Western Suburbs Magpies players who deserve to be recognised and I can’t think of any better place than Campbelltown Stadium, the home of the Magpies.
AMY CROSS
Macarthur Chronicle Facebook

It’s a great idea because we need something to honour all the past players who have pulled on the black and white jersey to represent Campbelltown. I’d like to see a big bronze magpie at the stadium which points in a westerly direction.
GRAEME SZYNAL
Save Our Sport rally organiser

I’d like to see some sort of statue as well. There is nothing at Campbelltown Stadium in recognition of the Magpies and there absolutely should be. Brisbane have their Wally statue so where is our version in Campbelltown?
JOHN FARLEY
Macarthur Chronicle Facebook

I am surprised to hear there isn’t already a memorial. Something should definitely change about that.
ADRIAN HARPER
Macarthur Chronicle Facebook

http://macarthur-chronicle-campbelltown.whereilive.com.au/news/story/25-years-of-western-suburbs-magpies-to-be-celebrated-at-campbelltown/

2002 SG Ball Premiers - 10 year anniversary

2012 marks 10 years since the last Western Suburbs magpies premiership in any competition - senior or junior - the 2002 SG Ball team.

Below is a list of results and the squad

2002 SG BALL (U18's) - PREMIERS!
Ryan BORG
Matthew BRINKWORTH
Dean COLLIS
Ryan CROOK
Anthony DALTON
Isaac DE GOIS
Liam FULTON
Bryce GIBBS
Andrew HAMPSON
Ryan HOFFMAN
Albert HOPOATE
Peter LETT
Aaron LONGMORE
John MANU
Clayton PARKYNS
Joshua PHILLIPS
Abraham PRITCHARD
Benjamin ROBERTS
Aaron SWEENEY
Jamie SZCZERBANIK
Josh TONGA
Nathan WATERS

Rnd 1 - Sat 9 March 2002 - Balmain 34 Defeated Wests 22 - Leichhardt Oval
Rnd 2 - Sat 16 March 2002 - Wests 29 Defeated Bulldogs 24 - Campbelltown Stadium
Rnd 3 - Sat 23 March 2002 - Wests 26 Defeated Canberra 16 - Campbelltown Stadium
Rnd 4 - Sat 30 March 2002 - Wests 36 Defeated Roosters 16 - Campbelltown Stadium
Rnd 5 - Sat 6 April 2002 - Wests 22 Defeated Parramatta 20 - Parramatta Stadium
Rnd 6 - Sat 13 April 2002 - Wests 45 Defeated Souths 22 - Redfern Oval
Quarter Finals - 20-21 April 2002 - Wests 48 Defeated Canberra 26
Semi Finals - 27-28 April 2002- Wests 42 Defeated Sharks 26
Final - 4 May 2002 - Wests Magpies 18 defeated Parramatta Eels 16 - Kogarah Oval

Some of the players later played Jersey Flegg (u20) that season and a handful managed to played in the 1st Division (these days the NSW Cup) as well.

Of course, many of the players in that 2002 SG Ball squad have gone onto play at the elite NRL level with Campbelltown junior, Ryan Hoffman going on to gain NSW and Australian rep honours.

The coach of the side was Peter Gentle who until recently was Wests Tigers assistant coach before heading off to coach in the English Super League. Also on the coaching staff is a magpie favourite, Ciriaco "Cherry" Mescia who was the strength/conditioning coach and later held similar roles at Wests Tigers & Sydney Roosters.

Trial - Manly 58 Western Suburbs 10

In their last trial before the season kicks off and their first against a fellow NSW Cup side, Wests were on the receiving end of a heavy defeat at the hands of last year's NSW Cup wooden spooners, Manly to the tune of 58 to 10 at Brookvale Oval.

Coach Trevor Schodel could not hide his disappointment at the result in which fundamental errors costs Wests dearly. There was plenty of dropped balls, missed one on one tackles, penalties and poor ball security and Manly made the most of those errors. Wests made far too many errors in both halves and were never in the game as a result.
The game did not start well for Wests when Manly scored out wide as a result of a missed one on one tackle in the 2nd minute. Manly scored again in the 9th minute after receiving consecutive sets of 6 tackles as a result of dropped ball from Wests. Manly were in again before Wests posted their first points of the game in the 29th min when winger Sharlon Taki ran onto a wonderful cut out pass from halfback Nigel Millgate. However Manly were in again in the 33rd minute after again getting consecutive sets of tackles from another Wests error. The magpies did score a few minutes from halftime when Sharlon scored his second try after a clever kick down the blindside by Millgate was kicked through and regathered.

Half time Manly 20 Wests 10.

The less said about the second half the better. Both Manly and Wests used what could be considered their top squads in the first half but used their second squads in the second half. Manly won the second half 38 to 0 with tries in the 2nd, 8th, 10th, 13th 17th, 22nd, 34th and 37th minutes. Former magpie Ben Falcone featured predominantely in some of the Manly tries. Too many errors in the second half from Wests had Manly making easy yards everywhere on the paddock as a result.

Coach Trevor Schodel will this week sit down with his coaching staff to finalise his squad for the upcoming season. If Wests can reduce their error rate they will trouble plenty of sides, if they don't reduce the errors, it could be a long season ahead.

Wests next game will be the opening round of the NSW Cup on Saturday 3rd March at their old stomping ground Lidcombe Oval and their opponent will be, Manly. Kick off is at 3pm.

NSWRL announce broadcast schedule

Continuing on from our extensive coverage of NSWRL competitions in 2011, the NSW Rugby League has today announced its broadcast schedule which will encompass the first month of the VB NSW Cup season as well as the elite Harold Matthews and SG Ball competitions.

Along with live scores across the 2GB and ABC radio networks, three community radio stations have again signed on to cover VB NSW Cup matches each weekend.

Hawkesbury Radio and HHH FM will cover games weekly and 2CCR will call Wentworthville’s Sunday home fixtures throughout season 2012.

Following on from the success of last year’s NSW Cup Grand Final which saw over 600,000 people tune in, the VB NSW Cup Grand Final will be again aired on Channel 9 as part of NRL Grand Final day.

The NSWRL’s highly successful show on Fox Sports will continue to be aired at 4.30pm on Fox Sports 2 HD and Fox Sports 2 each Wednesday in stunning high definition with full matches of the VB NSW Cup and special features on the Bundaberg Red Cup.

Below is the first four rounds television coverage for the 2012 VB NSW Cup season.

Fox Sports Game of the Round

Round 1 - Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs Vs Mounties from Belmore Sports Ground

Round 2 - Balmain Ryde-Eastwood Tigers Vs Cronulla Sharks from Leichhardt Oval

Round 3 - Manly Sea Eagles Vs Windsor Wolves from Brookvale Oval

Round 4 - Western Suburbs Magpies Vs Illawarra Cutters from Campbelltown Sports Stadium

NSWRL.com.au will again provide you with up to date scores for VB NSW Cup, Bundaberg Red Cup, Harold Matthews and SG Ball competitions through our innovative Weekend Game-Cast which incorporates our @NSWRL twitter feed as well as our competition hashtags (#VBNSWCUP, #BRC, #SGBALL and #HMATTS).

The Game-Cast also has the function to include our clubs’ twitter feeds which means you will be able to view everything NSWRL in one place.

“We want everyone to include those hashtags and participate in our Game-Cast so we can create a one stop shop with regards to information for our NSWRL competitions,” NSWRL Media and Communications Officer Brad Preston said.

“We have put countless hours into making sure the flow of information gets to us and most importantly, the Weekend Game-Cast, in a timely fashion.

“Following the success of last year’s video match highlights, we will again be providing VB NSW Cup, Bundaberg Red Cup, SG Ball and Harold Matthews highlight packages which will appear on our site as well as our NSW Blues iphone app.

“The extensive broadcast coverage coupled with the online presence will hopefully please our fans in what is shaping up to be an exciting season.”

Tips for getting the best out of your NSWRL coverage:

• Listen to the 2GB Radio network between 3pm and 5pm for half time and full time VB NSW Cup scores.

• Listen to the ABC radio network from 5.30pm for full time VB NSW Cup scores.

• Download free iphone radio streaming app ‘TuneIn Radio’ for coverage of VB NSW Cup matches broadcast by HHH FM, Hawkesbury Radio and 2CCR.

• Follow @NSWRL of twitter

• ‘Like’ the NSW Blues on Facebook

• Visit our game-cast each weekend HERE

PRESS RELEASE – Return to Lidcombe Oval

The “FIBROS” back at their former home Western Suburbs Magpies are flying back to their long-time base at Lidcombe Oval for the opening round of the VB NSW Cup.

With the Magpies Nest at Campbelltown Sports Stadium not available for the clubʼs season opener, theyʼll be lining up to face arch rivals the Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles at the scene of so many of the infamous battles between the Fibros and the Silvertails 

On Saturday 3rd March 2012, the Magpies will be calling their former base ʻHomeʼ once again in what promises to be a trip down memory lane for many Wests fans and Rugby League supporters in general.

The Magpies flew west from Lidcombe to Leumeah a quarter of a century ago and have not graced the hallowed turf of Lidcombe since 1986. 

This nostalgic return to Lidcombe promises to be treasured and remembered for a long time to come.

Itʼs a rare opportunity for the Magpies and their supporters to relive memories of yesteryear when the famous black and whites became entrenched in Rugby League folklore as the ʻFibrosʼ representing the broad community that is the Western Suburbs of Sydney.

NSWRL VB NSW Cup 2012
Round 1: Saturday 3rd
March 2012
Venue: Lidcombe Oval Kick-off: 3pm (Gates Open 11.30am)
Western Suburbs Magpies Vs. Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles
Tickets available on the day at Lidcombe Oval 
and at Wests Ashfield Leagues Clubʼs Reception
| Adults $10 | Children (16 years & Under) $5 | Kids 5 years and under FREE |

Website Move is Complete

Please update your bookmarks to the Western Suburb Magpies new web address:
www.westsmagpies.com.au

Our old .net address is now offline.

Wests Archives website address has also changed. It is now:

www.westsmagpies.com.au/archives

Sorry for an inconvenience.

Match report - Wests v Cabramatta trial

Trial - Wests v Cabramatta match report

Although on the wrong end of the scores in each period, coach Trevor Schodel says he is very happy with the hit out against the 2011 Bundaberg Cup champions and has identified areas in the squad he believes can be strengthened. The games were played in 2 x 30 mins and 1 x 40 mins periods with Cabramatta winning the first period 16 to 6, the second period 16 to 4 and the third period 12 to 8. Cabramatta were able to bring 3 strong squads to the game compared to Wests 2 squads which were missing some key personell in the backs including their leading try scorer from last week's International 9's - Sharlon Taki and all their big front rowers including Eddie Sua.

The magpies certainly missed their big men up front and lacked that go forward at times.There was plenty dropped balls, forced passes and missed tackles from both sides that resulted in tries. Wests showed speed in the backs and there was a superb 50m intercept try by former Oaks winger Nick Sbezzi in the second period. Mick Lekkas in the centres showed he will push for selection in the top side with some good runs and offloads and was rewarded with a try late in the third period.
Minto Cobras 2011 A Grade premiership winning centre, Aaron Teariki made some big hits during his time on field and will be a key man in Trevor's plans for the season ahead. Former Campbelltown Eagles second rower Tom Morrison had a solid game and was sin binned late in the second period after a scuffle with his opponent.
Another to impress was second rower Buck Hall, who came over from New Zealand this week looking for a chance to showcase his wares.

The halves Trent Touma, Chris Hay and Nigel Millgate showed during the 3 periods that they will form a good combination with their outside men.

This week, Trevor will sift through the squad for the final trial which will be played on saturday 18th March against Manly at Brookvale. From there he will pick his final squad for the up coming season.

Happy Birthday to..Brett Hodgson, Joe Thomas & Tony Cosatto

The Western Suburbs Magpies family would like to wish Brett, Joe and Tony a happy birthday.

Brett Hodgson (Feb 12th) rose from the ranks of the Wests Junior League where he played for Ingleburn RSL & ESA (Eagle Vale/St Andrews). He made his 1st grade debut for Wests coming off the bench against South Queensland Crushers in rnd 11, 1997 and his first run on appearance was in rnd 13 against the roosters playing on the wing and scoring 2 tries but later became an accomplished fullback & goal kicker.Brett played 49 first grade games for the magpies scoring 18 tries and kicking 37 goals and 1 f/g. He was the magpies leading try and pointscorer in 1998 ( 10 tries and 67 points) and leading pointscorer in 1999 ( 56 points).
When the joint venture was formed, Brett chose instead to sign with Parramatta and played there from 2000 to 2003, playing in the 2001 NRL Grand Final and representing NSW in 2002. He joined the Wests Tigers in 2004 and played 102 first grade games for WT which included the 2005 premiership and another tilt at State of Origin. He was the NRL's leading pointscorer in 2005 with 308 points and also hold the record for the most points by an individual in a finals match.
Since leaving the NRL, Brett has played in the English Super League for Huddersfield and Warrington winning a Man of Steel award in 2009.

Joe Thomas (Feb 13th) was one of the Big 4 who joined Wests from Canterbury in 1991 along with coach, Warren Ryan. Joe played mostly at hooker but could also play lock. He rose through the Souths juniors to play for the rabbitohs making his first grade debut in 1984. He joined Canterbury in 1988 winning a premiership with them in his first year. He played 3 season for Wests - 1991-93 playing a total of 53 first grade games scoring 4 tries making his debut in rnd 1 against Balmain. After leaving Wests he joined Illawarra in 1994 before retiring soon after. He later coached lower grades at Sydney City Roosters.

Tony Cosatto (Feb 15th) was a centre and member of the successful Ashcroft High team that won all before them in 1985. He was graded by the eels that same year ( the Liverpool area was then part of Parramatta juniors)and made first grade debut for the eels in 1986. He joined the magpies in 1990 and played just the 2 seasons playing 43 first grade matches scoring 11 tries. He was the magpies leading try scorer in 1990 with 8 tries. Tony made his first grade debut for Wests in their 12 all draw with Brisbane in rnd 1, 1990 at Campbelltown. He joined the roosters (still called Eastern Suburbs then) in 1992 playing 2 seasons before retiring.

Happy birthdays boys.

Australian Rugby League Commission

After more than three years of speculation, hand-wringing and boardroom wranglings, the long-awaited Australian Rugby League Commission will finally see the light of day on Friday.

New chairman, Queenslander John Grant, a member of the 1972 Kangaroos World Cup team, will launch the commission at the code's new Moore Park headquarters on a historic day for rugby league in Australia.

NRL chief executive David Gallop will continue in a similar role alongside Grant, with seven other commission members made up of heavyweights from the world of business, education and advertising.

The new commission will see the dissolution of the current ARL and officially mark the end of News Limited's involvement in the running of the game.

The ARL will hold its final meeting at 8.30 (AEST) on Friday morning to officially dissolve the body.

The new commission will be unveiled at a media conference fronted by Grant 11.30am (AEST) - just under three weeks' before the start of the 2012 NRL season.

It will take control of the game at a critical time, with television, internet and sponsorship deals all expiring at the end of the season.

Gary Pemberton, the man widely credited with securing record broadcasting rights for the Sydney Olympics, is on the new board and likely to be entrusted with securing a new lucrative TV deal.

He will be pushing to secure an agreement that is close to the $1.25 billion pocketed by the AFL last year.

However, that task will be severely tested in the wake of last week's High Court decision to allow Optus to show delayed AFL highlights on their handsets, which is in direct competition to Telstra's exclusive contract worth $153m over five years.

The NRL were looking for a similar deal and there are now concerns they could be sold short again.

Pemberton will be joined on the commission by Harris Farm founder and chairwoman Catherine Harris; brand strategist Ian Elliot and business heavyweights Peter Gregg and Jeremy Sutcliffe.

Highly-respected indigenous educationalist Dr Chris Sarra - Queensland's Australian of the Year in 2009 and a key figure in the Indigenous All Stars concept - is also on board along with former NSW skipper Wayne Pearce.

The end of the current ARL will not affect the NSWRL and QRL, who will continue to oversee representative sides in their respective states.

The Country Rugby League will merge with the NSWRL and be based at the new HQ in Sydney.

Illawarra Cutters enter the NSW Cup

Illawarra Coal Rugby League has today announced the name of its new VB NSW Cup team at gala launch today in Wollongong.

The side, which will be known as the Illawarra Cutters, has already been able to secure a major sponsor in Illawarra Coal as well as a sleave sponsor in Illawarra Credit Union and a shorts sponsor, LX Electrical.
Illawarra Coal VB NSW Cup Chairman, Sean O’Connor, said he hoped the people of the Illawarra would embrace the new side and its moniker.

“The name Cutters refers to coal-cutters or coal-hewers, men who perform well under extreme conditions, a perfect analogy for the modern Rugby League player,” O’Connor said.

When unveiling the new team logo, Illawarra Coal President, Colin Bloomfield, was particularly pleased the new name and logo embodied the company’s values of pride, passion and performance.

“Illawarra Coal is delighted to offer our support to the Illawarra Cutters VB NSW Cup team, which helps form the pathway for local talented Rugby League players to move into the National Rugby League competition,” Bloomfield said.

“The Illawarra Cutter team name is synonymous with our local coal cutting industry which has been an integral part of the local region for more than a century, just as Rugby League has been a favourite past time for locals for 100 years.”

Many of the Cutters players were involved in an NRL trial for the Dragons last Saturday against the Bulldogs and Coach Paul McGregor says they still have to put the finishing touches on their pre-season preparations but they would be ready for their Round One match against Cronulla at WIN Stadium.

“Last December we had an in-house trial and we were very scratchy in a number of areas, as a new group is,” McGregor said.

“We hadn’t played together, we hadn’t been together, and we hadn’t trained together at that period of time.

“We had two defensive lapses on the weekend (against the Bulldogs) and the boys were shown that if you do have defensive lapses in this arena you will get caught.

“They’re (Bulldogs) are a definite top four finish and for us to show that kind of showing against quality opposition, it is a good lead up into what we need to do.”

The VB NSW Cup will kick-off on Saturday, March 3, across NSW.

Round 1 - SG Ball and Matts Team List

The Western Suburbs Magpies SG Ball Under 18's and Harrold Matthews Under 16s squads have been announced to take on South Sydney Rabbitohs. Their first game of the season is this Saturday, February 11 at Erskineville Oval. Matts kick off at 11:00am and SG Ball at 12:30pm









SG BALL


1. Alex Canham
2. Sol Kamuta
3. Rhyce McLaren
4. Daniel Tavae
5. Josh King
6. Nathan Rumsby
7. Billy Kitt ©
8. Daniel Byrne
9. John Martin
10. Andrew Pfitzner
11. Josh Cullen
12. Jake Dooner
13. Luke Bonnell

14. Brad Larter
15. Daniel Alterio
16. Antonio Inzitari
17. Liam Cavana
18. George Grant
19. Junior Mapesone
20. Nick Galatoulas
21. James Kovac
22. Finn Dublewicz
23. Harry Grove

COACH: Jason Williams

Harold Matthews

1. Jett Karam
2. Raui Poaru
3. Makaere Bush
4. Jackson Kuli
5. Toa Mata’afa
6. Jack Payne
7. Ethan Wright
8. Tyrone Sweeney
9. Johnathan Mose
10. James Jackson
11. Mason Cerruto ©
12. Robbie Vai
13. Mark McCormack

14. Brayden Boaden
15. Andrew Vatuvei
16. Jesse Jackson
17. Ben Talamaivao
18. Tyson Wawatai
19. Derek Ah Chong
20. Jordie Reid
21. Chris Ve’e
22. Monson Paewai
23. Samoa Meafua
24. Lenny Sauni
25. Christian Tulua

COACH: Chris Bradbury

Still time to join a Group 6 team

The 2012 season is just around the corner, and many clubs have been in training for a few weeks but there is time to join the Country Rugby League Group 6 competition.

2011 was a great year for Rubgy League in our area and 2012 is shaping up to be even better. Also old Group 6 clubs Bundanoon & Bargo have returned to the competition and will take the paddock in 2nd Division.

This season will see the group run an extended competition:




U/18-1's
U/18-2's
2nd Division
Reserve Grade
First Grade

Our comp offers Rugby League for every level of player whether your just moving up from Junior League to the serious First Grader who is looking to step up to the next level.

2nd Division offers players coming back from retirement for "just one more season", the chance to kick the ball around the paddock and have a beer at the end of the day with their mates. You'll find a level of the game to suit you in Group 6.

Play footy in a well organised, well disciplined, friendly environment under the CRL. Group 6 games are a place where you can take the family to spend the day watching our great footy code.




So come alone - get involved - have some fun!
Contact one of our clubs: 

Appin Dogs
Bargo Bunnies
Bowral
Bundanoon Highlanders
Camden Rams
Campbelltown City Kangaroos
Campbelltown Eagles
Macarthur Bulls
Mittagong Lions
Moss Vale Dragons
Mt Annan-Currans Hill Knights
Narellan Jets
Oakdale Workers
Picton Magpies
Robertson Spuddies
The Oaks Tigers
Thirlmere-Tahmoor Roosters
Warragamba Wombats

MAGPIES READY TO FLY IN JUNIOR REPS

Players from the Western Suburbs Magpies Harold Matts and SG Ball teams have been presented with their gear kit for the 2012 Junior Representative season.

The Magpies take on South Sydney at Erskineville Oval on Saturday, February 11. Kick-off for Harold Matthews (U16) is 11am and SG Ball (U18) at 12.30pm.

The Magpies have some exciting young talent in their ranks. SG Ball players Billy Kitt, Harry Grove and Sol Kamuta have already spent some time training with the Wests Tigers U20s squad during the pre-season.

In the Harold Matthews squad, Mason Cerruto, Robbie Vai and Makaere Bush are backing up again from a strong season in the same competition last year. The Magpies are predicting a bright future for Cerruto, Vaj and Bush.

Western Suburbs Magpies SG Ball squad
Daniel Alterio, Luke Bonnell, Daniel Byrne, Alex Canham, Liam Cavana, Josh Cullen, Jake Dooner, Finn Dublewicz, Nick Galatoulos, George Grant, Harry Grove, Antonio Inzitari, Sol Kamuta, Joh King, Billy Kitt, James Kovac, Bradley Larter, Junior Mapesone, John Martin, Rhyce McLaren, Andrew Pfitzner, Nathan Rumsby, Daniel Tavae; Coach: Jason Williams.

Western Suburbs Magpies Harold Matthews Squad
Derek Ah Chong, Brayden Boaden, Makaere Bush, Mason Cerruto, James Jackson, Jesse Jackson, Jett Karam, Jackson Kuli, Lalotoa Mata’afa, Mark McCormack, Samoa Meafua, Johnathon Mose, Monson Paewai, Jack Payne, Raui Poaru, Jordie Reid, Lenny Sauni, Tyrone Sweeney, Ben Talamaivao, Christian Tulua, Robert Vai, Andrew Vatuvei, Chris Ve’e, Tyson Wawatai, Ethan Wright.

Chairman: Wests Tigers NSW Cup team is an Option

NEW Magpies chairman Mick Liubinskas said the Wests Tigers fielding a combined team in the NSW Cup next year was a “possibility”, but there were still key issues to work through.

The former Balmain and Wests player was elected Western Suburbs Magpies football club chairman last week as part of a new-look board.

The Concord resident said the Wests side of the NRL joint-venture needed to work together.

The Wests side of the club is made up of Wests Ashfield Leagues, Wests Campbelltown Leagues and the Magpies football club.

Wests Ashfield Leagues gave in-principle support recently to Balmain and Wests fielding a combined team in next year’s second tier NSW Cup under the Wests Tigers banner.

Liubinskas supports a combined team, which would alternate between Balmain and Magpies colours.

Balmain are yet to make a decision on the combined team.

“It’s a possibility, but nothing is set in concrete. I see a lot of credit in it though,” Liubinskas said.

“Wests and Balmain haven’t won a comp in the NSW Cup for a while now and if you look at St George Illawarra they are moving forward with a combined team this year.”

But Liubinskas said it was vital the different Wests stakeholders worked together to ensure the success of the Wests Tigers and the future of the Magpies.



http://inner-west-courier.whereilive.com.au/sport/story/nsw-cup-team-a-possibility-says-magpies-chairman/

Wests magpies Cabramatta 9's match reports

In very hot and humid conditions, The Western Suburbs magpies returned to the Cabramatta International 9's for the first time since 2009 and again finished top of their pool.

Game 1
Western Suburbs 8 def Liverpool Titans 6

With raining falling continuously for 4 days leading up to the tournament and then the sun popping out in the morning, the conditions were very humid and hot at New Era Stadium but the magpies got of to a brilliant start. Their opponants in game 1 was Liverpool Titans, a young club only two years old that play in the Western Suburbs Junior Rugby League competition.

The magpies score in the first half in a blind side play from a scrum win with the ball being passed to rangy centre Greg Davis who drew his opposite with a beautifully timed passed to send flying winger Sharlon Taki on his way to the tryline. The shot at goal was unsuccessful.

The first half was highlighted by the contiunal bullocking runs from dynamo pocket battleship, William Siale who last year was playing SG Ball for St George. He is certainly one that got away from the dragons den.

The second magpies try was on the back of one Siale's damaging runs. From the play the ball, a chain passing movement along the backs resulted in Sharlon scoring his second try and again the shot at goal was unsuccessful.

The final score was 8 to 6 sounds close but this was not a true reflection of the game which the magpies dominated as the titans scored with 90 secs left on the clock after a magpies dropped ball was capitalised on by the titans.

Game 2
Western Suburbs 24 def Kingsgrove Colts 14

The magpies played this game at 1pm (the Titans game kicked off at 10.40am) so there was a long gap inbetween games for the magpies. The ground, whilst still wet in some patches near the scoreboard corner was holding up very well.

Wests got off to a flyer when Kingsgrove dropped a ball near halfway and it was kick through by halfback, Chris Nay who then made a brilliant pick up but was tackled just short of the tryline. A resulting penalty from holding the man down resulted in a quick tap with winger and local Campbelltown junior, Keanu Rogers* scoring out wide. Goal attempt unsuccessful.

Wests second try was from sustained pressure on the Colts tryline with bustling centre, Michael Lekkas scoring in the corner. Goal attempt again unsucessful.

Wests next try was the result of a jolting tackle by the hungry magpie pack forcing a scrum. From the ensuing scrum win near halfway, a brilliant passing movement saw Sharlon Taki score his 3rd try of the day. And at last, the goal attemtped was successful. At halftime, Wests 14 Kingsgrove 0

Kingsgrove were the first to score in the second half but the magpies responded almost immediately. Another jolting tackle, this time by lanky centre, Chris Faae near the Colts 30m line result in a scrum feed for the magpies. Big forward, AJ Pesimono then broke from the scrum with ball in his hand pushing aside would be tacklers before a neat pass saw the crafty Todd Sault backing up to score. Goal attempt unsuccessful.

Not lying down, Kingsgrove came up with a four pointer to reduce to score to 18 to 10. However another damaging run by William Siale resulted in a penalty to the magpies with former Kingsrove fullback Michael La Manna scoring and Chris Nay added the extras to make it 24 to 10 before Kingsgrove scored in the dying stages.

*Keanu Rogers - local Campbelltown junior having played for Campbelltown Eagles (also known as East Campbelltown) and Macarthur Saints. He played SG Ball for Western Suburbs magpies in 2010 & 2011.

Game 3
Cup Quarter Final
Mounties 8 Western Suburbs 0

After finishing on top of their pool with 2 wins 0 losses, the magpies played Bundaberg Cup powerhouse and new Canberra Raiders NRL feeder club, Mounties in the quarter finals. The game was one of missed chances for the magpies with two efforts resulting in firstly Chris Nay and then Sharlon Taki being brought down short of the tryline. The defence of both teams was outstanding and the fact that both of Mounties tries were scored within the last 60 secs of each half is a testiment to both sides.

Just also, the Balmain Ryde Eastwood squad contained 3 former magpie NSW Cup players from 2011, Dayne Craig, Jay Masueli and David Harris plus coach, Leo Epifaina. Whilst the tigers finished 2nd in their pool and therefore eliminated from the Cup quarter final, they reached the Trophy playoffs but were defeated by The Entrance 20 to 16. The form of the 3 magpies was outstanding in this game with a lovely shortball from David Harris put galloping front rower Jay on 20 metre run under the posts. David continues to develop as a player under Leo Epifania's coaching and even showed his kicking skills in this game. The magpies wish all 3 best of luck in their quest for NRL first grade honours as we do to all former magpies players at other clubs looking for a similar dream. Once a magpie ALWAYS a magpie.

Magpies to Balmain. Pathway to Success

Congratulations to the following former Western Suburbs Magpies players who will pull on a Balmain Orange and Black jumper this weekend at the Cabramatta Nines and at their NSW Cup trial match.

For the Cabramatta 9's former Magpies David Harris, Daine Craig and Marc Russell have been named. The side will also be coached by former Magpie first grader and successful Magpies NSW Cup coach Leo Epifania.

For the NSW Cup trial match against Wests Illawarra, former Magpies superstars Nathan Waters, Shaun Spence and Josh Davis has been named for Balmain. The NSW Cup trial is being held in the heart of Magpie country at Saturday Milton Park, Railway Parade, Ingleburn/Macquarie Fields February 4th at 2:00PM.

As with the Wests Tigers policy of sending all Western Suburbs Magpies players with Wests Tigers contracts to Balmain Tigers, we at the Magpies still wish our boys all the best. Once a Magpie always a Magpie.

And as our club song says...

"Black and White are our club colours, wearing these we're brave and bold.

and the only time we'll change them, is to put on Green Black and Gold"

Membership Renewal Forms

G'day members. If you haven’t received your membership renewal forms by Friday the 10th of February please follow them up by contacting Chris Schubert.

Wests Ashfield Leagues

115 Liverpool Rd, Ashfield, 2131

Phone: (02) 8752 2070

Fax: (02) 8752 2010

Mobile: 0409 462 962

Email: Chris.Schubert@westsashfield.com.au

For those interested YES, the Magpies are finally setting up an online payment system for memberships! So very soon it will become even easier to join the mighty Western Suburbs Magpies family.

JAMES TEDESCO SIGNS NEW THREE-YEAR DEAL

Fresh from signing a new three-year deal with Wests Tigers, James Tedesco is now focusing his attention on securing the number one jersey in 2012.

The former St Gregorys College Campbelltown student can’t help but smile when he reflects back on his rapid rise to the NRL squad.

Twelve months ago, the Camden Rams/Eagle Vale junior was playing SG Ball for Western Suburbs Magpies in the junior representative competition after finishing 2010 as an Australian Schoolboys player.

The rise has been that quick for the 19-year-old that he hasn’t even done a pre-season of NYC training. He won’t need to now after being promoted full-time to the NRL top 25 man squad.

“I still can’t believe how fast things have happened but I’m not complaining at all,’’ Tedesco said.

“My focus this time last year was to play well for the Magpies to earn possibly a call up to train with the Wests Tigers U20s side or even to get a few games on the wing.”

Tedesco’s chance came in Rd 13 last year against Newcastle at Leichhardt Oval, coming off the interchange bench.

A fortnight later, on a sunny Sunday afternoon at Leichhardt Oval and in just his third game in the NYC, Tedesco scored 4 tries to equal the Club tryscoring record for most tries in a game. Then U20s Coach Grant Jones had finally found the full-back he was looking for.

Fast forward to today and Wests Tigers Head Coach Tim Sheens is keen to give Tedesco some time at full-back during the trials against Parramatta at Bluetongue Stadium (February 11) and Sydney Roosters at Campbelltown Sports Stadium (Feb 18).

It is not only a well deserved reward for his commitment to pre-season training but the chance to show his credentials at the senior level.

“It has been a great experience training with the senior squad. The workload is a lot more than what I am used to but I’ve learnt so much already. I’m loving it,’’ Tedesco said.

“My goal this season is to play consistent football. There will be weeks when I will have my ups and downs but if I can find some consistency in the U20s, you never know what it may lead to.

“I’m just honoured to have my name mentioned as a candidate for the full-back role as there are some good players here fighting for the position.”

Story/photo by Wayne Cousins

31/01/2012 4:58:01 PM

Happy birthday to..........Jason Taylor

The Western Suburbs magpie family wish Jason a happy birthday on Feb 2.

Jason was a skillful but slightly built goalkicking halfback who was one of the first of a batch of locals who rose from the junior ranks of the new Western Suburbs juniors based in the Liverpool/Campbelltown region. He originally played for Green Valley and Ashcroft before spending his final year of high school at St Gregorys College, Campbelltown where in 1989, he was a member of the side's win in the Commonwealth Bank Cup Schoolboys competition and winning the player of the series award. He was also a member of the Australian Schoolboys side that year.

Jason made his first grade debut for Western Suburbs in round 1 1990 against Brisbane coming off the bench. He had his run on debut for the magpies in round 3 1990 against Newcastle. He played 86 first grade games for the magpies between 1990-1993 scoring 6 tries, 225 goals and 12 field goals. Tensions between Jason and Wests coach, Warren Ryan arose when Jason was dropped from first grade andthis led to Jason leaving the magpies to join North Sydney in 1994. He played for the bears and the joint venture Northern Eagles from 1994 to 2000 before finishing his career with deserved Grand Final appearance with Parramatta in 2001.

In all, Jason played 276 first grade games scoring 47 tries, 942 goals and 35 field goals for a tally of 2107 points which at the time, was a record for the NSWRL/ARL/NRL competition which included an astonishing run of 194 consecutive games in first grade between 1992 to 2000.

Jason was also Western Suburb's leading pointscorer from 1990-93. He was the competition's highest point scorer in 1996 (238) and 1997 (242) as well as winning the prestiges Rothmans Medal in 1996. Jason represented NSW at State of Origin in 1993 whilst with the magpies coming off the bench in 2 games that year.

After retirement as a player, the coaching bug bit Jason and he started coaching lower grade at Parramatta eventually becoming coach of the Parramatta Premier League side (now called NSW Cup) winning the2005 premiership. He was an assistant coach to Brian Smith at the eels and was appointed caretaker first grade coach during the 2006 season after Brian left the club. He had already agreed to join Souths as their assistant coach in 2007 but was quickly elevated to the head coach role and guided Souths to the semi finals in 2007, their first appearance in finals since 1989. Jason however was dismissed as Souths coach after the 2009 season and was appointed as a kicking coach by the Sydney Roosters in 2010 before being promoted to the Sydney Roosters Toyota Cup U20 head coach in 2011.

Happy birthday Jason.