Wests Tigers to play trial at Camden

Wests Tigers have announced the dates and locations for the Club’s 2014 trial matches, to be held on two weekends in February.

The first NRL trial matches for the 2014 season will be held on Saturday 8 February, with Wests Tigers’ players taking on the Penrith Panthers in Camden and the Parramatta Eels in Alice Springs on the same day.
Two weeks later the Club will head to Remondis Stadium to play the Cronulla Sharks, with five grades set to take to the park on Saturday 22 February.

The trials against the Penrith Panthers will take place at Kirkham Oval, Camden, with the NRL, NYC and VB NSW Cup sides all in action.

Wests Tigers CEO Grant Mayer said that the games in Camden reinforced the Club’s continued support of South-West Sydney.

“The Club is looking forward to taking a full day of quality matches to Camden, allowing our passionate fans in South-West Sydney to get close to the action and get their first taste of rugby league for 2014,” said Mayer. “We’ve been working closely with the local community to ensure that the day benefits all parties involved.

“South-West Sydney remains an important region for Wests Tigers, evident by the thousands of hours the Club spends in the area each year,” he said. “We look forward to a year of strong support from our fans in the region, with the trial matches in Camden to be followed by four quality games at Campbelltown Sports Stadium during 2014.”

On the same day a number of NRL players will feature in a side that will take on the Parramatta Eels in Alice Springs.

The game will mark the Club’s first trip to the Northern Territory with Wests Tigers players looking forward to being in action in front of fans who may have never seen them in the flesh before, as well as introducing new fans to the team.

Wests Tigers’ final trials for 2014 is set to be a massive day of football, with five games taking place against the Cronulla Sharks at Remondis Stadium on Saturday 22 February.

First in action will be the Wests Tigers Harold Matthews Cup side, followed by the S.G. Ball team, both playing the Sharks in round two premiership games.

Following the two competition matches will be three trials, with the Wests Tigers NRL, NYC and VB NSW Cup sides playing.

Further information regarding kick-off times and purchasing tickets to all games will be released in the coming weeks.

Wests Tigers 2014 Season Draw

The superstars of the NRL will be at Campbelltown in 2014 with Melbourne Storm, Brisbane Broncos, North Queensland Cowboys and the Canberra Raiders all making the trip to Campbelltown Sports Stadium.

Wests Tigers fans have picked up a win before the 2014 NRL season has even begun following today’s draw release.

The 2014 draw is full of positives for Wests Tigers fans and players as the team looks to bounce back from a tough 2013.

Wests Tigers CEO Grant Mayer said that the team is looking forward to getting back into action follow the release of next season’s draw.

“We’ve worked closely with the NRL on the 2014 draw and as a club are very happy with the outcome,” said Mayer. “We listened to our members and believe we’ve given them what they were hoping for. More Sunday afternoon games, with five in the first 20 rounds.

“There are currently three Sunday afternoon games scheduled for Leichhardt Oval and we look forward to seeing standing room only when the boys run out,” he said.

“Next year we have four home games at ANZ Stadium, including our first home match of the year against the South Sydney Rabbitohs in round three,” he said. “The move to ANZ Stadium for 2014 will provide exceptional value for our members, who thanks to reciprocal rights can access eight games for the price of four, starting at just $50. This is an outstanding relationship for the Club that not only helps bolster this Club financially but gives our members the best facilities on offer.

“All 12 home games are equally important for Wests Tigers and for 2014 we’ve taken the approach of right game, right venue, right time,” said Mayer. “We believe the 2014 draw has something for all of our members, corporates and fans and the players are looking forward to their continued support.”

The team kicks off the 2014 season against the St George Illawarra Dragons on Sunday 9 March at ANZ Stadium, before heading to the Gold Coast for round two.

Round three is the first home match of the season, against the Rabbitohs at ANZ Stadium, before the team heads to Wellington to take on the New Zealand Warriors in round four.

Then it’s back-to-back home games, first up is the Manly Sea Eagles at Leichhardt Oval on Sunday afternoon, before the Wests Tigers take on the North Queensland Cowboys at Campbelltown Sports Stadium the following Saturday night.

On Easter Monday the Wests Tigers will face the Parramatta Eels at ANZ Stadium before returning to Leichhardt Oval for a second Sunday afternoon fixture. The team’s second Friday night game of the season will be in round nine against the Roosters at Allianz Stadium, before heading the Shark Park a week later.

Round 11 sees the Brisbane Broncos head to Campbelltown, with the two teams to celebrate the 15th anniversary of Wests Tigers’ first game back in 2000. After a bye in round 12 the team heads north to take on Newcastle, before returning for a second match against the Rabbitohs at ANZ Stadium.

Wests Tigers have a second bye in round 15 before taking on the Canberra Raiders in Campbelltown on the Saturday evening of round 16th. The next week the Penrith Panthers come to Leichhardt for a Sunday afternoon fixture, before Wests Tigers take on the Manly Sea Eagles the following Friday night.

Round 19 and 20 will both be home games at ANZ Stadium, against the Bulldogs and then the Dragons, before a first 2014 match up against the Melbourne Storm in Campbelltown in round 21.

The team heads to Townsville to take on the Cowboys in round 22, before two final ANZ Stadium games for the year, a home game against the Roosters and an away fixture against the Bulldogs.

The penultimate game of the year sees the team head to Canberra, before rounding out the home and away season against the Sharks at Leichhardt oval.

Coach Mick Potter is exceptionally happy with the draw as it gives the players and members a great balance on and off the field.

“We have an exciting list of young talent looking to make their mark on the NRL and we think this draw gives them opportunity to shine early and then test themselves as the season goes on,” said Potter. “Home ground advantage is really important and I think the mix of games and venues is really exciting for the players and the Club as a whole.”

2014 Wests Tigers memberships can be purchased at www.weststigersmembership.com.au with a range of packages available. Please note that 2014 Member Kits and Cards will not be delivered before Christmas, if a membership is a Christmas gift please contact the Wests Tigers Membership Department who will arrange for a Christmas Gift Card to be sent.

Become a Member today to be invited to an exclusive Member Only Christmas BBQ being held on Thursday 12 December between 4.30pm and 6.30pm at Concord Oval. Come along to spend the afternoon with Wests Tigers Coaching Staff and members of the 2014 NRL Squad.

Kangaroos beat Kiwis to win World Cup

The Kangaroos delivered a rugby league master class to claim a 10th World Cup title with a 34-2 demolition of New Zealand in Saturday's final at Old Trafford.

In front of a record international crowd of 74,468, Australia avenged their shock defeat to the Kiwis in the 2008 final, scoring five tries and not conceding one for a fifth straight game.

In capturing a first World Cup title in 13 years, Australia's triumph ensured a host of rugby league greats crowned their careers with an achievement that had so far eluded them.

And it was Australia's biggest stars who shone brightest.

Five-eighth Johnathan Thurston collected his fourth man-of-the-match award of the tournament while fullback Billy Slater capped a remarkable return from injury with a brilliant two-try performance.

Winger Brett Morris also had a double while Jarryd Hayne's freakish skills were again on display and skipper Cameron Smith, Paul Gallen and Matt Scott led the charge.

"It's a dream come true," Thurston said.

"It's been a long six weeks but to win a World Cup with your best mates, it doesn't get any better.

"We've been building towards this (performance). Our main focus was to be here in the last weekend of the World Cup and to improve each week and we've done that."

New Zealand's newly-crowned world player of the year Sonny Bill Williams tried hard but was kept relatively quiet as the Kangaroos kept an incredible defensive record intact.

They finished the tournament having gone almost seven straight hours without conceding a four-pointer.
"What a fantastic campaign we've had," Smith told his teammates before hoisting the trophy.

"We started off a bit shaky in the first game in Cardiff but we've certainly turned things around."

Slater's return, just two weeks after hurting his knee in the quarter-final win over the United States, meant Greg Inglis shifted back into the centres and forced an unlucky Brent Tate out of Tim Sheens' side.

The Kiwis suffered a huge blow early with in-form winger Roger Tuivasa-Sheck lasting only seven minutes before he hobbled off with the leg problem that had him in doubt for most of the week.

Australia suffered a scare when Hayne copped heavy knock but he was able to continue.

Slater, whose horror pass in the 2008 decider helped the Kiwis claim a famous win, continued his eventful tournament with the opening try in the 19th minute.

He latched on to a brilliant Thurston kick and scored next to the posts.

The Kangaroos looked to have scored with an equally spectacular play in the 26th minute after the impressive Cooper Cronk collected an incredible kick from Hayne.

But video referee Ashley Klein controversially ruled no try, ruling Andrew Fifita had made illegal late contact with Issac Luke.

Cronk wouldn't have wait long for his try though crossing again in the 30th minute following a great backline move and a Darius Boyd grubber kick.

Thurston converted to break Mick Cronin's 31-year-old of 309 points for the Kangaroos, and the playmaker added another penalty to give a Australia a 16-2 lead at the break.

Slater's dream night continued just moments after halftime, crossing out wide a minute after the break.
Morris finished off some outstanding work from Hayne but there was a scare when he collided heavily with an advertising sign behind the short in-goal area.

New Zealand's Manu Vatuvei did the same a short time later, just a day after the Kangaroos had voiced their safety concerns about the ground.

Hayne was again the creator as he set up Morris second in the 72nd minute.
"I just think Australia's performance today was nothing short of outstanding," Kiwis coach Stephen Kearney said.

"They gave us a real lesson."

By Liam FitzGibbon

AAP
4:18am Sun 01st December, 2013
 

http://www.nrl.com.au/kangaroos-beat-kiwis-to-win-world-cup/tabid/10874/newsid/75600/default.aspx

Aust v NZ for World Cup Glory

This is a World Cup final that will, for the next four years at least, provide some certainty about which nation can claim to be world champions, but it may also resolve some of rugby league's most enduring conundrums.
Is it better to go in to a decider battle-hardened or are the bumps and bruises too much to overcome in the space of seven days?

 World Cup Final: Australia v New Zealand
Old Trafford, Manchester
Saturday, November 30 2.30pm (UK)
Sunday, November 31 1.30am (AEDT), 12.30am (AEST) Tune in to 7mate

Is it the forward pack that determines victory or are the halves the architects of their team's success?
Is it better to have a halfback with fast feet or a No.7 who is quick between the ears? Is Sonny Bill Williams or Greg Inglis the greatest rugby league player on the planet?

Will Billy Slater recover in time to shift Inglis back to the centres, and will Roger Tuivasa-Sheck overcome the leg injury that threatens to derail a spectacular World Cup performance that has established his place as a permanent member of the Kiwi Test team?

Does Issac Luke have genuine claims to Cameron Smith's mantle as the premier hooker in the world?
All tantalising questions in their own right and all to be answered over the space of 80 minutes on one of the world's grandest sporting stages, Old Trafford in Manchester.

A quick examination of the respective semi-final victories shows some fascinating trends.

Against England, New Zealand finished on the wrong side of the statistics in try assists, line breaks, line-break assists, missed tackles, errors and possession, yet somehow came away with one of the most memorable victories ever seen in international rugby league.

On the other side of the draw and against far inferior opposition, the Kangaroos had 58 per cent of the ball, ran for 1,690 metres, made 12 line breaks and missed just seven tackles (compared to Fiji's 53).
Drawing a line through that form to determine a winner is just as difficult as deciding what's nicer between ice cream or pizza but whichever way it plays out we're sure to have a satisfying conclusion to a six-week rugby league feast.

Watch out Australia: Some purists may argue that a pass that hits the ground should be considered a dropped ball rather than an offload but the extraordinary ability of Sonny Bill Williams to extend the play has the potential to create problems for the seemingly impregnable Kangaroos defence. Such is his proficiency that there is even a Facebook page dedicated to his out-and-out refusal to be tackled with the ball titled, 'I hate it when I tackle Sonny Bill Williams and he just offloads'. Sonny Bill's 17 offloads in the World Cup thus far are five more than anyone else, and he missed the game against France and went off injured before half-time against Scotland. Only two players have made more line breaks than him and his three try assists are more than Johnathan Thurston has been given credit for.

The Kiwis can't beat the Kangaroos in a game of chess but second-phase play that brings Issac Luke, Shaun Johnson and Roger Tuivasa-Sheck into play could upset the structure of the Australia defence. Just like he did in the NRL Grand Final, Sonny Bill lifted his side to new heights when all hope seemed lost in the semi-final against England and his importance to New Zealand's chances won't be under-valued by the Kangaroos.

Watch Out New Zealand: Much attention in the build-up will focus on Greg Inglis's possible return to the centres for Australia but Kiwis coach Stephen Kearney would be wise not to ignore the threat posed by the man on the opposite side of the field. When the Kangaroos squad was announced six weeks ago Jarryd Hayne's inclusion was seen as a way to cover wing or fullback should the squad be struck down by a crisis of injuries. Yet a gamble by coach Tim Sheens to go with the Eels superstar at right centre ahead of the experienced Brent Tate for the quarter-final clash with the United States saw Hayne score four tries, becoming just the eighth player to score that many for Australia in a Test. When he was rewarded with a spot in the team to play Fiji in the semi-final, Hayne's output was three tries, two try assists, 176 metres, nine tackle-breaks and four line-breaks. Bryson Goodwin has been outstanding defensively for South Sydney and the Kiwis in 2013 but even he would concede that a match-up against Hayne was one that he wasn't expecting.

Key Match-up: Cameron Smith v Issac Luke
Not since Steve and Kerrod Walters vied for representative selections against each other have two such outstanding hookers plied their trade in such dramatically different fashions. Like Kerrod, Issac Luke provides his side impetus through his running game while Smith is more from the 'Boxhead' mould of strength in and around the ruck and a complete control of his side's attacking structure. In an unrelenting forward battle, Luke ran for 109m against England last weekend while Smith, in the Kangaroo canter against Fiji, ran for just 35m. While Luke's energy and power propel his side downfield, it is Smith's smarts that keep the Kangaroos structured and constantly applying pressure to the opposition. Throughout the World Cup Smith has, somewhat surprisingly, had more carries (113-93) and dummy-half runs (93-73) than Luke but the Kiwi No.9 leads the way in metres gained (635-464) and tackle-breaks (19-5). They're polar opposites yet equally vital to their side's chances and their individual battle will go a long way to determining the rugby league world champions.

Where It Will Be Won: The big blokes who start up front will invariably be the ones who put their respective side on the front foot but in a World Cup Final it will be the best overall forward rotation that determines who controls the ebb and flow of proceedings over the course of 80 minutes. The expected return of Frank Pritchard to the Kiwi line-up bolsters their depth while Andrew Fifita, Corey Parker and Josh Papalii have made significant contributions off the bench for the Kangaroos. With a prop forward rotation of Waerea-Hargreaves, Bromwich, Matulino and Kasiano the Kiwis have the edge in pure size whereas the Kangaroos are more reliant on the tenaciousness and work ethic of the likes of Bird, Gallen, Thaiday and Parker.

And then there's a bloke called Sonny Bill. When the Kiwis were desperate against England it was 'SBW' who they turned to and on a number of occasions he went close to delivering the seemingly impossible, including taking a George Burgess smack across the mouth to earn his side the crucial penalty in the final minute. His late inclusion in the Kiwi squad at the expense of Tohu Harris caused widespread controversy but if he can find a way to lead his side to a successful defence of their title he will take his place among the most extraordinary sportsmen that the southern hemisphere has ever produced.

Televised: 7mate – Live from 1am Saturday (NSW); midnight (Qld)

The Way We See It: All Australia can do is beat those who are put in front of them and the fact remains that they have not conceded a try in their past 324 minutes of football. Is their defence that good or has the opposition attack been less than potent? New Zealand got a fright against Samoa then demolished France, Papua New Guinea and Scotland and somehow found an escape route against a committed England team to earn the right to defend their title. So is their form patchy or exactly what's necessary ahead of a World Cup Final against the Kangaroos? For the Kiwis the ride has been emotional while the Kangaroos have been clinical but the next time the defending champions head to the well they may find it has run dry. Kangaroos by 4.

http://www.nrl.com/world-cup-final-preview/tabid/10874/newsid/75538/default.aspx

Quick Update Regarding 2014

The mighty Western Suburbs Magpies will again compete in the Ron Massey Cup, SG Ball and Harold Matthews in 2014.

2014 RMC Signings - Shawn and Dayne Craig, Sam Aiga, Limoni Kamuta, Tala Mapesone, Jerome Mose, Michael Stevens, Seffa Silafau, Soni Paasi and Mason Talolua.

Wests Magpies are actively recruiting players to strengthen an already strong squad. Once those negotiations have been finalised, a further update will be provided.

Training commenced at 5.30pm on Tuesday 12/11/13.

We are indeed lucky to have the following members of our Coaching Staff return for season 2014 under the direction of Head Coach Leo Epifania. Con Spanos and Mark Cudmore Strength and Conditioning (Mark retuned to the Magpie Nest after a season with Wests Tigers NSW Cup team) David Mc Ewan Head Trainer, Bluey Schafer Gear Manager, John Harbon Assistant Manager, Valerie Mc Ewan Trainer/Strapper, Horrie Jowsey Trainer/Strapper, Jeff Aplitt Change room official, Charlie Tuxford Change room official, Keith Topolski Ground Announcer and Media, Stephen Hartas Gate and Merchandise, Bruce Moschner and Scott 'The Magpie' Morris along with the many other volunteers who assist during the year.

On behalf of the Directors and Management of Wests Magpies, I sincerely thank all associated with our Club.

Steve Reeves
General Manager
WSDRLFC

Players looking for Work

We have some new players joining the mighty Magpies in 2014 that are looking for work opportunities. For example we have a new signing from Western Australia looking to continue his plumbing apprenticeship however he is willing to take any appropriate position.

If any of you Magpies out there know of work opportunities that our players might be interested in, please contact Steve Reeves on admin@westsmagpies.com.au or call (02) 9601 2002

2013 RLWC Grand Final - Aust vs NZ

With just five days to until the Rugby League World Cup Final at Old Trafford, RLWC2013.com spoke with several stars of the Kangaroos pack to get their thoughts ahead of the big occasion.

Corey Parker admitted the players did not see the game unfold before their own Semi-Final clash with Fiji, as New Zealand recorded a stunning last-gasp win over England to book their place at Old Trafford.

“I’ve only been able to catch the highlights of the game, but it was a contest, wasn’t it? Footy can be a fickle game at times, and maybe the English guys are cursing their luck,” Parker told RLWC2013.com

“But full credit to the Kiwis. They didn’t stop and they got their rewards right at the death there, and they should provide a tough contest on Saturday.”

But Parker doesn’t believe the Kangaroos would have been better prepared had they been challenged by Fiji, who they coasted past with an 11-try performance.

“You can only play the cards you’re dealt, and although the scoreline didn’t flatter Fiji they certainly turned up and had a go physically.

“The game prior to us was an epic, but we’ve all faced similar game throughout this competition, and England had us on the rack in that first game.

“But it’s down to 80 minutes on Saturday.”

Parker’s team-mate in the pack Greg Bird says he was delighted that the team were able to stretch their phenomenal defensive record to four games, after they shut out the Bati at Wembley.

But he concedes that Saturday’s opponents will make the Australian defence sweat to guard their goal line.

“It’s a great source of pride for us. We did struggle a bit against England in that area so it’s something we’ve really focused on since then.

“We have pride in our defence and want to be the best in that area. We always knew we could score points, but defending is always hard, especially when you’re fatigued.

“We’re not expecting to continue it this weekend against the Kiwis, as I know they’ll throw absolutely everything at us,” Parked added.

“A lot depends on the conditions. If it starts raining then it could get tight, but either way it’s going to be tight on the scoreboard and a great game.”

Meanwhile, James Tamou says he is relishing the opportunity to play at Old Trafford, following Kangaroos fixtures at the Millennium Stadium and Wembley Stadium at RLWC2013.

“It’s my very first time in the UK and my very first time playing in a Rugby League World Cup, so to be having this conversation ahead of a Final is extremely exciting.

“It’s a bit tough with the weather sometimes, but the atmospheres we’ve played in front of have been fantastic.

“It’ll definitely be a highlight of my career to play at Old Trafford. I’ve heard all about the history of the ground, and just to be playing there will be unreal.

“I won’t forget it in a hurry, whether we win or lose.”

Also competing in his first Rugby League World Cup is Josh Papalii, and the youngster admits the chance to erase the memories of the Kangaroos’ defeat to New Zealand at the same stage five years ago is one he is relishing.

“I was still at school when the last Final was being played, and to be honest I don’t remember watching it, but I know it’s still big for the fans.

“There are a few players in the squad who played in the game, but it isn’t mentioned much by those guys, if at all.

“It’s five years down the line now and a different squad completely. We have our own goals and our own gameplan, so there’s not too much looking back.

“It would mean heaps to be named in the team for this one though, and be a part of the team that hopefully puts it all right.”

Rugby League World Cup TV schedule

The Rugby League World Cup kicks off live and exclusive on 7mate on Saturday night with tournament favourite Australia looking to recapture the trophy once again.

All 28 games of the 2013 Rugby League World Cup will be broadcast live, exclusive and in high definition on 7mate with Seven’s coverage hosted by Ryan Phelan with guest experts Matt King, Nathan Fien and Nigel Vagana.

The tournament kicks off with coverage of the Australia v England blockbuster starting at midnight on Saturday October 26 (12am AEDT Sunday Oct 27), before culminating with the World Cup Final from Old Trafford at 1am AEDT on Sunday December 1.

There will be a half-hour pre-game show before each match, with every Australian game, the quarter-finals, semi-finals and the final also replayed on 7mate on Sunday afternoons.

This is the 14th staging of RLWC 2013 – to be hosted by England and Wales with matches also held in France and Ireland. New Zealand is the defending champion, having defeated Australia in the 2008 World Cup final. Italy and the US are taking part for the first time.

BROADCAST SCHEDULE:

Sunday October 27
AUSTRALIA V ENGLAND (Millennium Stadium)
12am AEDT LIVE on 7mate | 3.30pm AEDT replay on 7mate
 WALES V ITALY (Millennium Stadium) 2.30am AEDT LIVE on 7mate

Monday October 28
PAPUA NEW GUINEA v FRANCE (Craven Park) 2.30am AEDT LIVE on 7mate
NEW ZEALAND V SAMOA (Halliwell Jones) 5am AEDT LIVE on 7mate

Tuesday October 29
FIJI V IRELAND (Spotland Stadium) 6.30am AEDT LIVE on 7mate

Wednesday October 30
TONGA V SCOTLAND (Derwent Park) 6.30am AEDT LIVE on 7mate

Thursday October 31
USA v COOK ISLANDS (The Memorial Stadium) 6.30am AEDT LIVE on 7mate

Saturday November 2
NEW ZEALAND V FRANCE (Parc Des Sports) 5.30am AEDT LIVE on 7mate

Sunday November 3
ENGLAND V IRELAND (John Smiths Stadium) 1am AEDT LIVE on 7mate
AUSTRALIA v FIJI (Langtree Park)
6.30am AEDT LIVE on 7mate | 3.30pm replay on 7mate

Monday November 4
WALES v USA (Glyndwr University Stadium) 12.30am LIVE on 7mate

SCOTLAND V ITALY (Derwent Park) 3am LIVE on 7mate

Tuesday November 5
PAPUA NEW GUINEA V SAMOA (Craven Park) 6.30am LIVE on 7mate

Wednesday November 6
TONGA V COOK ISLANDS (Leigh Sports Village) 6.30am LIVE on 7mate

Friday November 8
SCOTLAND v USA (Salford City Stadium) 6.30am LIVE on 7mate

Saturday November 9
NEW ZEALAND V PAPUA NEW GUINEA (Headingley Carnegie) 6.30am LIVE on 7mate

Sunday November 10
ENGLAND V FIJI (KC Stadium) 1am LIVE on 7mate
AUSTRALIA V IRELAND (Thomond Park) 6.30am LIVE on 7mate | 3.30pm replay on 7mate

Monday November 11
WALES V COOK ISLANDS (The Gnoll) 12.30am LIVE on 7mate

TONGA V ITALY (The Shay) 3am LIVE on 7mate

Tuesday November 12
FRANCE V SAMOA (Gilbert Brutus Stadium) 5.30am LIVE on 7mate

Saturday November 16
QUARTER FINAL 1
6.30am LIVE on 7mate | 2pm replay on 7mate
QUARTER FINAL 2
11.30pm LIVE on 7mate| 1pm replay on 7mate on Sunday November 17

Sunday November 17
QUARTER FINAL 3
6.30am LIVE on 7mate | 3.30pm on 7mate Monday November 18
QUARTER FINAL 4
1.30am LIVE on 7mate | 3.30pm replay on 7mate Saturday November 23

SEMI FINAL 1
11.30pm LIVE on 7mate | 1pm replay on 7mate on Sunday November 24
Sunday November 24
SEMI FINAL 2
2am LIVE on 7mate | 3.30pm replay on 7mate Sunday December 1

WORLD CUP FINAL
1am LIVE on 7mate | 3.30pm replay on 7mate

Wests Juniors defeated by St Helens

Wests Magpies’ juniors were narrowly defeated 32-30 by a touring St Helens Academy side last night at Campbelltown Sports Stadium.

The game was played in three thirty-minute quarters and was a solid hit-out for a group of players trialling for the 2014 Wests Magpies SG Ball train-on squad.

St Helens led 22-10 after the first interval, with the Magpies staging a fight back to be down just 26-18 going into the last third.

Late tries to Daniel Roberts and Jesse Jackson had the home team right in the match, however St Helens held on for a 32-30 victory.

Jackson, Charlton Schaufhausen and Cody King were awarded the best players for the Magpies on the night.

The touring St Helens Academy squad will now face Penrith on Saturday in the final match of their visit.

St Helens 32 (Smith 2, Davis 2, Eccleston, Abrahams tries; Hewitt 4 goals) defeated Wests Magpies 30 (Coskerie 2, King, Schaufhausen, Jackson, Roberts tries; Roberts 3 goals)

Wests Magpies
1. Jeff Karam
2. Brennan Laverty
3. Charlton Schaufhausen
4. Liam Cassidy
5. Toa Mata’afa
6. Daniel Roberts
7. James Perlowski
8. Jack Hart
9. Michael Applebee
10. Kye Madden
11. Zac McInnes
12. Jesse Jackson
13. Chris Ve’e

Interchange:
Jordan Sandovic
Eddie Kendall
Jarrad Tompkins
Cody King
Harrison Coskerie
Visiano Vaohea
Dion Delevante
Jerome Meafu
Jacob Andrews
Matthew Keppie
Brayden Boaden
Frank Arcella

Australia's path to World Cup glory

The Kangaroos will start their World Cup campaign against host nation England but are unlikely to face reigning champions New Zealand until the tournament's final.

Australia has been drawn in Group A alongside England, Ireland and Fiji, with the Kiwis playing in Group B alongside France, Samoa and Papua New Guinea.

The top three teams from each group will advance to the quarter-finals, along with the winners of Group C (Tonga, Scotland, Italy) and Group D (USA, Wales, Cook Islands).

Australia's campaign begins against the rapidly improving English, featuring South Sydney's Burgess brothers, the Bulldogs' James Graham and new Warriors signing Sam Tomkins, at Cardiff's Millennium Stadium on October 26.

That match will go a long way to determining the winner of Group A, who will go on to play the best of USA, Wales or the Cook Islands in the quarter-finals stage.

Should things go to plan for Australia, they'll edge out England to top the group before advancing through to the semi-finals, where they would play either the runner-up from Group B (likely France, Papua New Guinea or Samoa) or the third-place finisher from Group A (expected to be Petero Civoniceva's Fiji).

A win there would lead to an appearance in the final against likely opponents New Zealand, who would be out to repeat their shock win over the Kangaroos at the last World Cup in 2008.

Matches will be broadcast live in Australia on 7mate.

Full Rugby League World Cup draw
GROUP A
Sun Oct 27, 12.30am AEDT (11.30pm Sat AEST): Australia v England (Broadcast: 7mate)
Tue Oct 29, 7am AEDT (6am AEST): Fiji v Ireland (Broadcast: 7mate)
Sun Nov 3, 1.30am AEDT (2.30am AEST): England v Ireland (Broadcast: 7mate)
Sun Nov 3, 7am AEDT (6am AEST): Australia v Fiji (Broadcast: 7mate)
Sun Nov 10, 1.30am AEDT (12.30am AEST): England v Fiji (Broadcast: 7mate)
Sun Nov 10, 7am AEDT (6am AEST): Australia v Ireland (Broadcast: 7mate)

GROUP B
Mon Oct 28, 3am AEDT (2am AEST): Papua New Guinea v France (Broadcast: 7mate)
Mon Oct 28, 5am AEDT (4am AEST): New Zealand v Samoa
Sat Nov 2, 7am AEDT (6am AEST): New Zealand v France (Broadcast: 7mate)
Tue Nov 5, 7am AEDT (6am AEST): Papua New Guinea v Samoa (Broadcast: 7mate)
Sat Nov 9, 7am AEDT (6am AEST): New Zealand v Papua New Guinea (Broadcast: 7mate)
Tue Nov 12, 7am AEDT (6am AEST): France v Samoa (Broadcast: 7mate)

GROUP C
Wed Oct 30, 7am AEDT (6am AEST): Tonga v Scotland (Broadcast: 7mate)
Mon Nov 4, 3am AEDT (2am AEST): Scotland v Italy
Mon Nov 11, 3am AEDT (2am AEST): Tonga v Italy

GROUP D
Thu Oct 31, 7am AEDT (6am AEST): USA v Cook Islands (Broadcast: 7mate)
Mon Nov 4, 1am AEDT (12am AEST): Wales v USA (Broadcast: 7mate)
Mon Nov 11, 1am AEDT (12am AEST): Wales v Cook Islands (Broadcast: 7mate)

GROUP C/D
Sat Oct 26, 3.30am AEDT (2.30am AEST): Wales v Italy
Wed Nov 6, 7am AEDT (6am AEST): Tonga v Cook Islands (Broadcast: 7mate)
Fri Nov 8, 7am AEDT (6am AEST): Scotland v USA (Broadcast: 7mate)

QUARTER FINALS
Sat Nov 16, 7am AEDT (6am AEST): Winner B v Winner C (Broadcast: 7mate)
Sun Nov 17, 12am AEDT (11pm Sat AEST): Winner A v Winner D (Broadcast: 7mate)
Sun Nov 17, 7am AEDT (6am AEST): Runner-up A v 3rd Place B (Broadcast: 7mate)
Mon Nov 18, 2am AEDT (1am AEST): Runner-up B v 3rd Place A (Broadcast: 7mate)

SEMI FINALS
Sun Nov 25, 12am AEDT (11pm Sat AEST): Winner QF 1 v Winner QF 3 (Broadcast: 7mate)
Sun Nov 24, 2.30am AEDT (1.30am AEST): Winner QF 2 v Winner QF 4

FINAL
Sun Dec 1, 1.30am AEDT (12.30am AEST): Winner SF 1 v Winner SF 2 (Broadcast: 7mate)

Kangaroos doing everything possible

Australia Coach Tim Sheens says his Kangaroos are doing everything they can to best prepare for the six-week World Cup campaign which begins against England at Cardiff's Millennium.

While England and New Zealand will play warm up games against Italy and the Cook Islands, Australia have chosen a program of intense training to have players battle-weary from a long NRL season ready for the tournament.

"Everyone is in the same boat, our competition and Super League finish late," said Sheens.

"You get a week or so to get them ready. That's why we're going two weeks early to adjust to the conditions after the conditions here in Australia which are so hot.

"We really need to adapt to the cold, settle them down and get over the travel.

"We're doing everything we can to prepare well and I think we will be prepared well."

While England are in full swing in a high performance training camp in South Africa, Sheens is nursing a number of players with niggling injuries.

It's believed Matt Scott, Luke Lewis and Nate Myles are in doubt for the opener in less than two weeks.
"We have 90% to 95% of our first team against England picked, but there are still a couple of minor issues, a couple of guys who are a little underdone." said Sheens.

"That may affect the selection for the first game."

AJ Carr

Tuesday 15 October 2013 9:15 AM

http://www.weststigers.com.au 

Tadesco represents his Italian Heritage

What a difference a year can make.
After a 2012 season which lasted just minutes into Round 1, James Tedesco couldn't be blamed for simply setting a goal of finishing 2013 injury-free.

The Wests Tigers fullback and Magpie Junior, at just 20, did that and more, being awarded the Club's rookie of the year award and playing for City mid-season.

Now the highly rated youngster will find himself on the world stage when he represents his Italian heritage at Cardiff's Millennium Stadium against home side Wales in front of a possible capacity crowd of 75-thousand.

Tedesco felt enormous family pride when informed he was a likely selection for the Italy World Cup team.
"I was very excited," said Tedesco. "I've spent a lot of time with my grand parents, they're both Italian on my Dad's side.

"They're stoked and all my family is very excited.
"I just had to have a good season and get through injury free which I did. The body is feeling good and ready to go."

The first game against Wales will make up part of a massive opening day to the 14th Rugby League World Cup with that fixture set to follow an opening ceremony described by organisers as "the greatest show Rugby League has ever seen" and old rivals England taking on Australia.

With almost every hotel room in Cardiff booked out months in advance and excitement building rapidly, it's set to be a special occasion for the youngster who spent so much of 2012 doing the tough and testing yards associated with injuring his ACL.

Despite likely being on the receiving end of a passionate home crowd's disapproval, Tedesco will relish playing in the big match atmosphere.

"I'll be honoured to play over there on that ground against Wales," said Tedesco.
"Even getting booed will still be awesome, playing in front of a crowd like that in a massive stadium!
"There'll be a lot of fans there but we'll soak it up and do our best."

The Azzurri, who first played Rugby League in the 1950s before threats from Rugby Union effectively ended their participation at test level, have assembled a strong squad, despite the withdrawal of experienced halves Craig Gower and Terry Campese.

Italy are likely to be highly competitive in their debut World Cup.
"It's very exciting, there's a lot of NRL boys who are Italian," said Tedesco.

"It's unfortunate that Craig Gower and Terry Campese aren't playing with us but we've got both the Minichiello brothers, Aiden Guerra who has just won a premiership, Cameron Ciraldo and Kade Snowden as well.

"We've got some pretty big names, I think we're going to be a tough team to beat."
The Italy squad also features departing Wests Tigers NYC second rower Brenden Santi.

Italy fixtures:
Wales vs Italy - Saturday 26th October, Millennium Stadium, Cardiff
Scotland vs Italy - Sunday 3rd November, Derwent Park, Workington
Tonga vs Italy - Sunday 10th November, The Shay, Halifax

2013 Wests Tigers NSW Cup Review

Wests Tigers – Position 7th (11 wins, 13 losses)

The Wests Tigers first season in the VB NSW Cup as a merged entity was punctuated by a number of close wins and losses. Featuring in 11 games that were decided by only 6 points or less, the Tigers were on track for a higher finish in the top-eight before a late season collapse where they lost five of their last six games to scrape into the finals.

Best Performed – After returning to the Tigers last season after stints with the Sharks and Cutters, Jarred Farlow has been one of the Tigers most consistent performers and continued to deliver throughout 2013. Before his season was cut short through injury, Taqele Naiyaravaro was making a name for himself as one of the hardest players to stop in the competition; scoring 23 tries in 15 games.

Rising Star – As mentioned above, Taqele Naiyaravaro was a sensation for the Tigers this season after moving from prop to the wing. The giant Fijian proved almost unstoppable at times and was a member of the victorious VB NSW Cup Representative team.

Highlight – A 40-18 Round 17 victory over Mounties at Campbelltown Stadium had all the hallmarks of the Tigers at their best, and despite their tough run into the finals the Tigers rallied to defeat the Auckland Vulcans in the first week of the finals.

2014 – After several strong seasons for the Tigers NYC side, Wests will look to benefit from an injection of several of their young stars. However, with a host of experienced players leaving the Tigers NRL side this season, the depth of the club will be tested. If they can avoid the crippling injury toll they suffered this season, they will remain highly competitive.

NRL Debutants - Ava Seumanufagai, Sauaso Sue, Shaun Spence, Sitaleki Akauola, Jarred Farlow, Joel Luani, Luke Brooks

2013 Season Review - Wests Tigers

NSWRL Media

17/10/2013 10:00:00 AM

2013 RMC REPS vs FIJI - Match Review

The NSWRL Ron Massey Cup Representative side proved too strong for the Fiji Warriors with a 58-16 victory in an exhibition match at St Marys Leagues Stadium on Saturday night.

The Fijian line-up consisting of players mostly from the Ron Massey Cup, Sydney Shield and NSW Cup competitions remained in the contest for the majority of the opening half before the Reps’ piled on six second half tries to blow out the final score including hat-tricks to both fullback Don Thompson and five-eighth Brendan Waters.

Dean Rysko continued his Player of the Year form during the early exchanges with several solid hit-ups before steaming onto a Scott Jones short ball from close range opening a 6-0 lead after six minutes of action.

Fiji opened their account eleven minutes later with the try of the match. Warriors’ fullback Paul Rokolati fielded a Jake Fitzpatrick grubber in his own in-goal and set-off down the right sideline before linking with centre Joe Uluibau who stepped several defenders to complete a stunning length of the field effort in the right corner. Fiji remained two adrift after Henry Raiwalui failed to convert from touch.

The Reps’ resumed control with back-to-back tries in the 22nd and 25th minutes to open an 18-4 advantage. Wenty second-rower Pat Mataele scored the first from a cross-field bomb which was quickly followed by another when Waters backed up a Mataele break down the right edge to finish the fifty metre movement under the posts.

Fiji stopped the flow of points before adding six of their own when replacement forward Tim Nawaqatabu barged over next to the posts which Rokolati converted narrowing the margin to 18-10 six minutes before the interval.

Fiji looked well placed to edge even closer one minute before halftime but were dealt a severe blow when replacement Reps’ half Aaron Fluke teamed with Louis Vaiotu in a long range move down the left wing that ended with Magpies winger Sam Aiga scoring from an in-goal grubber in the following play. Flukes’ sideline conversion on the hooter had the Reps well placed with a 24-10 halftime lead.

The Ron Massey Cup Reps rattled Fiji with committed defence after the break; Uluibau was bundled into touch inside his own half which was quickly followed by Thompson’s first try when he stepped back inside to beat several defenders extending the lead to 30-10 in the 47th minute.

The Warriors’ struggled to match the Reps’ pace around the ruck and another Waters break through the middle ended with forward Mitch Cahalane increasing the margin by six points. Fiji’s luck changed six minutes later when a stray Fluke pass on his own goal-line was pounced on by Raiwalui for a converted try and 36-16 score line in the 55th minute.

The floodgates opened in the 64th minute when Reps’ skipper Hutch Maiava broke through the middle from 40 metres out before sending Waters away under the posts which was quickly followed by Thompson’s second off another Mataele line-break down the right edge. Thompson scored his third through soft defence from ten metres out to bring up the Reps’ half century with ten minutes remaining.

Waters weaved through the tired Fijian’s from fifteen metres out completing his own hat-trick in the final four minutes and a final score line of 58-16 after Fluke’s conversion.

Ron Massey Cup Reps 58 (Brendan Waters 3, Don Thompson 3, Dean Rysko, Pat Mataele, Sam Aiga, Mitch Cahalane tries; Aaron Fluke 6, Jake Fitzpatrick 3 goals) d. Fiji Warriors 16 (Joe Uluibau, Tim Nawaqatabu, Henry Raiwalui tries; Paul Rokolati , Raiwalui goals) at St Marys Leagues Stadium, October 12, 2013.
Crowd: 500. Referee: Lawrence McDonnell. Touch Judges: Matt Damaso, Jay Farlow. Penalties: Fiji 6-5. Halftime: Ron Massey Cup Reps 24-10.

When they scored: 6th min: Ron Massey Cup Reps 6-0 (Rysko try; Fitzpatrick goal); 17th min: Ron Massey Cup Reps 6-4 (Uluibau try); 22nd min: Ron Massey Cup Reps 12-4 (Mataele try; Fitzpatrick goal); 25th min: Ron Massey Cup Reps 18-4 (Waters try; Fitzpatrick goal); 34th min: Ron Massey Cup Reps 18-10 (Nawaqatabu try; Rokolati goal); 40th min: Ron Massey Cup Reps 24-10 (Aiga try; Fluke goal); 47th min: Ron Massey Cup Reps 30-10 (Thompson try; Fluke goal); 49th min: Ron Massey Cup Reps 36-10 (Cahalane try; Fluke goal); 55th min: Ron Massey Cup Reps 36-16 (Raiwalui try and goal); 64th min: Ron Massey Cup Reps 42-16 (Waters try; Fluke goal); 67th min: Ron Massey Cup Reps 48-16 (Thompson try; Fluke goal); 70th min: Ron Massey Cup Reps 52-16 (Thompson try); 76th min: Ron Massey Cup Reps 58-16 (Waters try; Fluke goal).

Ron Massey Cup Representatives
1 Don Thompson
2 Rhys Pritchard
3 Alan Eisenhuth
4 Matt Evans
5 Sam Aiga
6 Brendan Waters
7 Jake Fitzpatrick
8 Hutch Maiava (c)
9 Scott Jones
10 Dean Rysko
11 Grant Lahey
12 Pat Mataele
13 Tim Baldwin

Interchange
14 Aaron Fluke
15 Sonny Bristow
16 Louis Vaiotu
17 Mitch Cahalane
Coach: Jamy Forbes

Fiji Warriors
1 Paul Rokolati
2 Fabian Goodhall
3 Joe Rokoqo
4 Joe Uluibau
5 Taqele Naiyaravoro
6 Henry Raiwalui
7 Siti Moceidreke
8 Luke Serevi
9 Hamilton Hughes
10 Bill Baleilomaloma
11 Kem Seru
12 Junior Rika
13 Donis Gock

Interchange
14 Nick Cama
16 Phil Samuels
18 Joka Dokonivalu
19 Tim Nawaqatabu
Coach: Joey Saukuru

Wentworthville win 2013 Ron Massey Cup

After their amazing come-back against Western Suburbs last weekend, Wentworthville have backed it up with a stunning performance to defeat Mounties to claim the 2013 Ron Massey Cup.

Wentworthville were never headed in securing back-to-back Ron Massey Cup Premierships with a commanding 32-18 grand final victory over Mounties at St Marys Leagues Stadium.

Despite losing second-rower Valu Nasio to injury during the warm-up, the Magpies’ opened a 16-8 first half advantage before a stunning second half hat-trick by replacement forward Daniel Penese rounded out the clubs fourth title in five seasons.

Mounties got off to the worst possible start losing possession in the opening set of the game which was compounded when Jarome MacKenzie grounded a fumbled Aaron Fluke in-goal grubber to open a 6-0 lead in the second minute.

The Premiers got their own dose of the fumbles gifting Mounties several opportunities from close range before Fluke relieved the pressure with a 40-20 in the eleventh minute. The Magpies extended the margin to ten points one minute later after centre KJ MacKenzie attracted several defenders before providing winger Arthur Takapu an open passage to the right corner.

Several willing exchanges ended with consecutive penalties to Mounties which Brett Lahey put to good use with a short-ball sending second-rower Grant Lahey through a gap to touchdown in the 25th minute. The score remained 10-4 after Blake Davies failed to convert in the blustery conditions.

The Magpies lifted a gear towards the end of the half getting in the face of five-eighth Davies forcing his last play kick over the sideline on the full. Replacement Wenty hooker Brendan Waters burrowed over from dummy half in the following set which Fluke converted for a 16-4 margin six minutes from the break.
Mounties reduced the deficit to eight on the stroke of halftime with a crucial try to Tim Tautuaa after Takapu failed to control a Brett Lahey in-goal grubber.

The opening of the second stanza was a replay of the first with Wenty scoring after a Mounties handling error four minutes in. Waters dominance continued out of dummy half, this time holding up a beautiful ball for Penese to cross near the posts. Fluke added the extras for a decisive 22-8 lead.
Mounties’ comeback hopes spiralled when injury forced playmaker Davies from the field after 47 minutes which was closely followed by a melee as tensions reached boiling point. Penese’s second try from a well-placed Fluke cross-kick provided significant breathing space for Wenty at 28-8 with 26 minutes left on the clock.

Replacement Fred Pakutoa was on hand to make it 28-12 after finishing a Brett Lahey-Vinnie Uelese cross-kick combination in the 58th minute. Any chance of a Mounties comeback was extinguished by a desperate try saving tackle from fullback Jarome MacKenzie when Tautuaa looked a shoe-in to end a fifty metre movement in the left corner after 66 minutes.

Penese ensured the trophy remained at Wentworthville for another year scoring his third through Mounties left edge in the 68th minute. Wenty’s victory margin was reduced to fourteen when lock Nick Kassis crossed under the posts in the final six minutes for a final score line of 32-18.

Wentworthville Magpies 32 (D Penese 3, J MacKenzie, A Takapu, B Waters tries; A Fluke 4 goals) def. Mounties 18 (G Lahey, A Tuatuaa, F Pakutoa, N Kassis tries; B Lahey goal)

Jason Hosken

Rugby League News

30/09/2013 1:30:00 PM

PLAYERS WANTED FOR 2014

Magpies coach Leo Epifania has begun recruiting for the 2014 RMC season.

Interested players are invited to submit a playing resume with references to admin@westsmagpies.com.au or to register their interest by calling 9601 2002.

Training will commence in November.

Wests Tigers 2014 Memberships are now on sale!

Wests Tigers are excited to announce that 2014 Membership packages are now on sale!

Show your commitment to the Wests Tigers by signing up as a Member in 2014 – it’s shaping up to be an exciting season and we want you to be a part of it.

The support of Members is an integral part of the Wests Tigers success both on and off the field. It’s not just about attending games anymore; it’s a pledge of allegiance to your team.

With over 11,000 Members coming on board in 2013, Wests Tigers have revamped numerous packages based on feedback this season with a Membership to suit any Wests Tigers supporter.

There are some great value packages available, along with a new-look Member kit and the inaugural Members Only Merchandise range.

We hope that you will join us for what shapes up to be an exciting season ahead

Audio: Leo Epifania after Semi Final loss

Wests Magpies coach Leo Epifania reflects on what might have been after a heartbreaking loss against Wentworthville in the preliminary final of the Ron Massey Cup.

https://soundcloud.com/nmg-sports-post-game/leo-epifania-wests-magpies-1

Thanks to Newell Media Group Sports for their coverage in 2013.

A final Note from Steve

I would like to personally thank the Wests Ashfield and Wests Magpies Directors, Simon Cook CEO Wests Ashfield, Wests Ashfield marketing, accounts, computer, catering, food and beverage management, bar and reception staff for their commitment to our club.

I also record my thanks to all of our volunteers and support staff, Wests Campbelltown, Wests Tigers, Prime Physio, Alsco Linen services,Quality Control Paint and Panel, Macarthur Automotive, the Whitlam leisure Centre, the fanatics group, magpie supporters in general and the NSWRL for their support on and off the field during the year.

It is not lost on me the sacrifices made by our support staff. Without them we would not succeed.

It has been a long season, starting in November 2013 and finishing up to day. By any measure it has been an outstanding year for Wests Magpies - Dean Rysko player of the year, Sam Aiga, Sonny Bristow, Dean Rysko and Thomas Morrison selected in the representative team.

Finally, where would we be without Leo 'ledge' Epifania. A true gentleman and student of the game. His positive attitude and never say die philosophy is contagious. What a great Magpie and coach. Well done ledge. You deserve better.

Steve Reeves

Semi Final - Ron Massey Cup - Match Review

Western Suburbs’ giant killing run came to an end last Sunday, with Wentworthville staging a comeback for the ages to secure a 32-24 victory. While Wentworthville had enjoyed a week’s break, Wests were coming off an epic golden point victory over minor premiers Cabramatta and were outdone for energy in the early exchanges.

However, Wests were the first to register points after eight minutes. Michael Stevens, under pressure from the Wentworthville defence, chose to run the ball on the last tackle, finding Dean Rysko in support before Rysko offloaded for Limoni Kamuta, who outpaced the cover to touch down. Stevens, recovered after being flattened late, converted for Wests to lead 6-0.

Wests took advantage of the shift in momentum to double their lead on the quarter hour as a Stevens grubber kick took a deflection off the Wenty defence, Sam Aiga darting through to pick up the ball and beat Wenty fullback Jarome Mackenzie with a right foot step to grab the try, converted by Michael Stevens.

Wentworthville needed to find a way to stay alive and, with ten minutes before halftime, Wenty shifted the ball to their right side where Wests had failed to recover, Arthur Takupu beating Sam Aiga for speed to get Wentworthville on the board. Aaron Fluke added the extras to bring Wentworthville back within six.

However, Wests would have the final say in the first half. A penalty for a late shoulder charge on Michael Stevens allowed Wests to set up and David Atuau almost found the line himself off a line break. From the ensuing play the ball, Fred Tevaga tucked the ball under his arm and ran crossfield, beating four players before spinning out of a tackle to score. Michael Stevens hit the woodwork with the conversion attempt, Wests heading to halftime ahead by 16-6.

Knowing Wentworthville were seeking to enter their sixth straight decider, Wests needed to start well and they did one better, with a magical ball inside from Soni Passi sending Sam Aiga into the backfield, Aiga showing an excellent right foot step to beat Jarome Mackenzie and reach out as the cover converged. Stevens converted from in front, Wests leading 22-6 four minutes into the second stanza.

Wentworthville started to get frustrated and with back to back penalties to Wests for a shoulder charge and a lifting tackle, Michael Stevens added a penalty goal to the Wests tally, extending the score to 24-6 with 27 minutes remaining.

Wentworthville needed to roll the dice and they came up trumps with 20 minutes to go, with Daniel Penese powering his way through the Wests defence on the last tackle. Fluke added the extras to bring Wenty back to within a dozen.

From the kick-off, a miscommunication left Jarome Mackenzie without a forward to take the hit up. Sensing blood, the Wests defence showed a little too much enthusiasm in defence, McKenzie slicing through a tiny gap to go 105 metres to score. Fluke converted and with 18 minutes to play, Wests held a fragile 24-18 advantage.

Wentworthville suddenly had complete control over the momentum of the game and registered their fourth try five minutes later, as three consecutive short side runs of 15 metres allowed Dominic Reardon to weave his way through the scrambling Wests defence. Aaron Fluke barely pushed the conversion attempt across the face, Wentworthville coming home strong, despite trailing 24-22.

A minute later and Wentworthville had the lead, as KJ Mackenzie managed to find enough space through a crowd of black and white jerseys of both descriptions to put Wentworthville in front. Fluke failed to convert, Wentworthville ahead 26-24 with eight minutes remaining.

Wests nearly stole the win with 90 seconds remaining, as Michael Stevens grubbered through the Wentworthville line for his three-quarter line. However, Dominic Reardon picked off the kick and grabbed Wenty’s second length of the field try. Fluke converted for a miraculous Wentworthville win.

Wests coach Leo Epifania lamented a couple of defensive lapses at key times, although he was pleased with his player’s efforts. Epifania said that, while he would have been thrilled with such a final position before the season started, it still hurt to fall a game short of the decider. For Wests, Dean Rysko, Michael Stevens and Sam Aiga were standouts, while Wentowrthville had Jarome Mackenzie, Aaron Fluke and Mitchell Stanfield to thank for their comeback.

WENTWORTHVILLE 32 (Dominic Reardon 2, Arthur Takapu, Daniel Penese, Jarome Mackenzie, KJ Mackenzie tries; Aaron Fluke 4 from 6) def WESTERN SUBURBS 24 (Sam Aiga 2, Limoni Kamuta, Fred Tevaga tries; Michael Stevens 4 from 5) Penalties: Wests 8 Wentworthville 4. Halftime score: Wests 16 Wentworthville 6.

Western Suburbs

1. Sam Aiga

2. Nathan Scarano

3. Limoni Kamuta

4. Jerome Mose

5. Amanono Tovio

6. Micheal Stevens

7. David Atuau

8. Fred Tevago

9. Dayne Craig

10. Sonny Bristow

11. Mason Talolua

12. Luke Williams

13. Dean Rysko

14. Chris Standing

18. Seffa Sliafau

20. Todd Makajev

22. Soni Passi

Wentworthville

1. Jarome Mackenzie

19. Dominic Reardon

3. Kj Mackenzie

4. Tim Wynn

5. Arthur Takapu

20. Aaron Fluke

7. Matthew Place

16. Tyrone Viiga

23. Brendan McKinnon

10. Nathan Armit

17. Patrick Mataele

12. Valu Nasio

13. Mitchell Stanfield

6. Brendan Waters

11. Solomone Lasalo

15. Daniel Penese

24. Taunaloa Kei

Picton - 2013 Group 6 Champions

Picton Magpies are the toast of the Group Six Rugby League, after a thrilling and dramatic 24-22 win over the Mittagong Lions in the First Grade Grand Final on Sunday.

The Magpies managed to secure the victory over the Lions, but had to work for the full 80 minutes to claim the Premiership trophy. Picton had control of the game on the scoreboard, but had to wrestle control on the field from the determined Mittagong side, who never conceded the game to their opponents.
The Magpies led 12-6 at the break, with neither side giving any ground in defence, with some big hits being dished out by forwards from both packs.

Kiel Shepherd was sin binned just before halftime, but the Magpies pack steeled themselves for the 10 minute period without their front rower, and ensured it wasn’t detrimental to the team.

A no try ruling against Picton fullback Michael Lett in the second half drew much questioning across the large Picton crowd. Picton spectators believed the try should have been awarded, but a penalty for a double movement was given against Lett.
Regardless, Picton led 24-12 well into the second half before a late Mittagong comeback saw two quick tries take the score to 24-22. Mittagong fullback Ben Baker missed a relatively simple conversion attempt which would have tied the scores with around two minutes remaining.

Picton managed to last the final moments of the match, and celebrated a fifth victory for Coach Gary Dowse. Dowse spoke after the game, and said the whole team effort was impressive on Sunday, without singling out a specific player for special praise.

Picton’s Halfback Tim Dengate was given the Man of the Match award, but Dowse agreed Alex Peters, Bryce Poisel, Michael Lett, and Chris Young were also impressive in their win.

For Mittagong, Scott and Ryan Borg caused problems all afternoon, while Robbie Payne and Warwick Carter made strong metres throughout the game, and Baker was also impressive from fullback.

Storm clouds brewed as the National Anthem was performed by Missy Lancaster before the start of the Bargo Sports Club First Grade Grand Final in front of the record size crowd.

Other Results

Under 18-2's – Picton Magpies 10 Appin Dogs 20
Under 18-1's – Mittagong Lions 24 Camden Rams 30
Second Division – Warragamba Wombats 4 Robertson Spuddies 8
Reserve Grade – Oakdale Workers 35 Mittagong Lions 16
First Grade – Mittagong Lions 22 Picton Magpies 24

Team List for Wests v Wenty Semi Final Clash

The 3rd placed Wentworthville Magpies take on the 8th placed Western Suburbs Magpies in the Semi Final match at WIN Jubilee Oval this Sunday, September 22.
Kick-off: 1.45pm
Referee: Daniel Olford
Broadcast: Radio Coverage courtesy of Triple H 100.1FM (Link available via the www.nswrl.com.au Broadcast page)
Broadcast: www.nswrl.com.au’s NSWRL Match Centre Scoreboard

1. JAROME MACKENZIE
2. MATTHEW COLLINS
3. KJ MACKENZIE
4. TIM WYNN
5. ARTHUR TAKAPU
6. BRENDAN WATERS
7. MATTHEW PLACE
16. TYRONE VIIGA
9. SIMON GREAVES
10. NATHAN ARMIT
11. SOLOMONE LASALO
12. VALU NASIO
13. MITCHELL STANFIELD ©

14. NETANI SUKA
15. DANIEL PENESE
21. MARK TUATTI
24. TAUNALOA KEI

COACH: ALEX CHAN

1. Sam Aiga
2. Nathan Scarano
3. Limoni Kamuta
4. Jerome Mose
5. Amanono Tovio
6. Micheal Stevens
7. David Atuau
8. Fred Tevago
9. Dayne Craig
10. Sonny Bristow
11. Mason Talolua
12. Luke Williams
13. Dean Rysko

14. Chris Standing
15. Brad Soe
20. Todd Makajev
22. Soni Passi

COACH: Leo Epifania

Audio: Rysko, Aiga, Epifania

Thanks to Newell Media Group listen to all the finals jubilation of the Wests Magpies huge sudden death upset win over Ron Massey Cup minor premiers Cabramatta 24-20. Includes interviews with Dean Rysko, Sam Aiga and coach Leo Epifania.

https://soundcloud.com/nmg-sports-post-game/in-the-sheds-with-wests-post

Thanks to Newell Media Group

Newell Media Group: Coverage of Wests v Cabramatta

A huge thanks must go to Newell Media Group for the amazing coverage of the Preliminary Finals match between Western Suburbs Magpies and Cabramatta Two Blues. Go to their website to read their match review.

http://www.newellmediagroup.com/newellmediagroup/Cabramatta_v_Wests_Magpies_Ron_Massey_Cup_Week_2_Play_Off_2013.html

Photos: Magpies v Cabramatta

Sometimes words are not needed. These photos sum up the Magpies tough win against the Cabramatta Two Blues.

  
Thanks to Newell Media Group

Magpies & Canley Heights RSL Jazz Ballet Group

The Western Suburbs Magpies are proud to have the Canley Heights RSL Jazz Ballet group as part of our extended Magpie family. They have performed during the halftime break at all of our home games so far this season and our supporters warmly appreciate the dance routines the youngsters provide as the halftime entertainment.

The group is open for ages two and-a-half up to adults and perform styles in jazz, tap, ballet, hip hop, lyrical and musical theatre.

Classes are held at 11 Prince st, Canley Heights. Class costs are $5 per lesson or 3 lessons for $12.

For more details visit their Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/pages/Canley-Heights-RSL-Jazz-Ballet/263453367091613

Photo: The dancers performing recently at a Wests game at Lidcombe Oval.

Preliminary Final - Ron Massey Cup - Match Review

Western Suburbs recorded a stirring 24-20 golden point victory last Saturday at New Era Stadium, bouncing minor premiers Cabramatta out the back door of this year’s finals. With the eastern side of New Era Stadium abuzz, Cabramatta made the ideal start after eleven minutes, as a face ball by James Trotter found Tiger Vatuvei, who bulldozed his way through the Magpies defence to open the scoring alongside the uprights. Jason Gray buried the extras, Cabramatta 6-0 ahead after 12 minutes.

It took until the half hour for another genuine scoring opportunity to arise, as Tuki Jackson found space on the left to put Gray away. However, an inspiring effort from Tom Morrison rescued the day for the Magpies. A penalty for offside on the ensuing play allowed Wests to regroup, however it was Danny Barakat who ran inside from dummy half before showing and going through to score. Gray was online with the conversion, and Cabramatta led 12-0 with eight minutes until the break.

Cabramatta sought to pressure a Nathan Waters-less Wests on their last tackle options, but with seven minutes to go, Michael Stevens stepped off his left foot and put Amanono Tovio away down the right wing, Tovio returning the favour as Stevens opened the Magpie’s account. Stevens was successful with the conversion attempt, and Wests had halved the deficit with five minutes to halftime.

Wests rounded out the first half scoring with a right side raid almost going to ground before Sam Aiga swooped in behind the line and put Amanono Tovio over in the corner. Stevens pulled the conversion across the face, Cabramatta holding a 12-10 lead at the interval.

Cabramatta went quickly on the attack in the second half and received a penalty for an attacking offside against Wests. However, after a delay due to injury, Cabramatta chose to kick for goal, with Jason Gray slotting the two points for a 14-10 lead.

An epic contest of the forwards saw some enormous contact, and as the forwards went at it, Wests took the opportunity to spin the ball wide, Amanono Tovio stretching out to register his second try of the day. Michael Stevens sent the black and white faithful into raptures as he converted from as close to the touchline as you can get, Wests leading 16-14 with 22 minutes to play.

Cabramatta refused to panic and continued to play their natural game but, coming out of trouble, Jason Gray found himself monstered by Limoni Kamuta, the Magpie flanker stealing the ball in a one on one challenge and motoring 30 metres to score. Michael Stevens failed to convert from the eastern touchline, Wests heading into the last quarter up 20-14.

Cabramatta started to feel the pressure of the clock winding down, forced into error by their own desperation as well as a furious Magpies line speed. Sadly for Wests, second rower Tom Morrison was stretchered from the field with four minutes to play after sustaining a nasty leg injury which left the crowd gasping.

Cabramatta used this break to regather their composure and, after a penalty for a fortuitous high tackle, Ivan Penehe bounced through three Wests defenders to lift the roof at New Era. Jason Gray added the extras from a fairly simple position by his standards, and the Two Blues and Magpies were headed to golden point, locked at 20-20 after 80 minutes.

Golden point could not have started worse for Cabramatta, as a shorter kick-off by Sam Aiga was put to ground. However, Wests turned the ball back over shortly after, and Cabramatta dominated the first period of golden point through to the last two minutes, when referee Adam Cassidy awarded Cabramatta a penalty for a late challenge on the kicker. Jason Gray pointed to the posts and, for the first time of the afternoon, had his kick at goal waved away, with five minutes being insufficient to separate the teams.

The second period of golden point saw Wests go straight on the attack with a Michael Stevens field goal attempt charged down by a diving Cabramatta. Dayne Craig very nearly took advantage of the extra set by burrowing through, but the Two Blues defence was up to the challenge to hold him up.
From the play the ball, Michael Stevens had yet another field goal attempted charged down with the Magpies regaining possession. Finally, after 88 minutes of enthralling, physical football, as Cabramatta focussed their attention on the Wests halves, Soni Paasi tucked the ball under his arm and, in trademark bull style, powered his way through four Cabramatta defenders to seal the game for the Magpies. Wests coach Leo Epifania said that all he ever asked of his team was character, and Wests delivered in spades, securing victory after having trailed 12-0 six minutes before halftime. The result marks a disappointing end for Cabramatta, who secured the minor premiership a fortnight ago with a 34-18 victory at home over Wests.

For Western Suburbs, the enthusiasm of Soni Paasi, the constant presence of Jerome Mose and the workload of Ron Massey Cup Player of the Year Dean Rysko helped secure the win, while for Cabramatta, Tuki Jackson dominated in attack when he came on, ably assisted in the pack by Pat Lennard and Nick Eshman.

Western Suburbs will play Wentworthville for a place in the 2013 RMC Grand Final next SUNDAY 220913 at Kogarah Win Jubilee Oval, kick-off at 1-45pm with Mounties and The Entrance fighting it out for the other spot at 3-30pm.

WESTERN SUBURBS 24 (Amanono Tovio 2, Michael Stevens, Limoni Kamuta, Soni Paasi tries; Michael Stevens 2 from 4) def CABRAMATTA 20 (Tiger Vatuvei, Danny Barakat, Ivan Penehe tries; Jason Gray 4 from 5) Penalties: Wests 7 Cabramatta 10. Halftime score: Wests 10 Cabramatta 12

Western Suburbs      

1. Sam Aiga

19. Limoni Kamuta

16. Brad Soe

4. Jerome Mose

5. Amanono Tovio

6. Micheal Stevens

15. David Atuau

8. Dean Rysko

9. Dayne Craig

10. Sonny Bristow

13. Mason Talolua

12. Tom Morrison

11. Seffa Silafau

17. Luke Williams

18. Fred Tevago

20. Soni Passi

22. Todd Makajev

Cabramatta

1. Chris Taripo

2. Jason Gray

3. Ivan Penehe

4. Danny Barakat

5. Fetongi Tuiavanu

20. James Trotter

7. Gus Jasmine

8. Pat Lennard

9. Tiger Vatuvei

10. Ene Folau

11. Jerry Key

12. Nick Eshman

13. Henry Taufaao

16. Tuki Jackson

17. Hala Katoa

18. Judah Lavulu

19. Max Napa