Sport
19 June, 2023
Mareeba schoolboys dominate in second win
A LAST-minute try pushed the Mareeba State High School Aaron Payne Cup team to 40 point victory over Holy Cross Mackay last week, securing the team’s second ever win in the cup’s history.
A LAST-minute try pushed the Mareeba State High School Aaron Payne Cup team to 40 point victory over Holy Cross Mackay last week, securing the team’s second ever win in the cup’s history.
Working as a strong team, prop forwards Elijah Ratalatala and Darcy Adams were dominant carriers up the middle of the truck, allowing their teammates to play easily off their backs.
Chase Sheppard and Tyrone Williams both directed plays to either side of the ruck that created space for Junior and Makeal Newbury to score a try each in opposite corners of the field.
Reece Boyle had another stellar game with rock solid defence in the centre position where, in attack, his efforts stood out again with strong caries and another try double – one long range effort leaving defenders wanting as his speed and footwork left them in his wake.
Another push over try that showed Boyle had a power game as well, helping them secure a 50-10 win at full time.
The Cowboy Country challenge players also came away with a 50-10 win, with youngster Cayde Miller standing out amongst the squad for a powerful kickoff, followed by three tackles to throw the pass for another try.
Coach Clint Cifuentes was proud of the boys’ efforts and the culture they have built within their team throughout the first four rounds.
“This win means a lot to the boys and staff involved,” he said.
“Last week’s game was the first time in the school’s short history in the Aaron Payne Cup and Cowboys Challenge national schools’ competition that we travelled to Townsville and came away with a win in both games – not a bad effort,” he said.
“The boys all represented their families, community, school and themselves with distinction.
“Just like the school’s emblem says, ‘Not for Ourselves Alone’, this squad is working hard on building a culture that can be respected for years to come not just at school but by the wider community.
“As a teacher and coach, I can say it is a pleasure to watch these young men develop into the best version of themselves, being good people not just good footy players.”
The Mareeba boys will be taking on St Augustine’s Cairns for a revenge round next week, 13 July at Barlow Park from 4.15pm.
The team encourages all friends and family to come along and support them as they take on their rivals from round one.
