Sport
18 March, 2024
Shocking start for Gladiators
IT was a disappointing start to the 2024 FNQ Rugby League season for the Mareeba Gladiators A Grade team, who were smashed by the Ivanhoe Knights, 46-4.
Within the first eight minutes of play, the Ivanhoes capitalised two errors made by the Gladiators, allowing them to score two quick tries.
Despite the early setback, the Gladiators regrouped, digging deep to regain control of the match. With a well-executed play, they managed to claw their way back into contention, scoring a crucial try.
“We looked pretty good getting ourselves back into the game with a try before another long kick drop lead to another Ivanhoes try,” coach Chris Sheppard said.
“A fourth error on a kick led to another Ivanhoes try before half-time.”
Going into the second half, the local team knew they needed to tighten their grip on the game and minimise errors, however, their efforts were dampened by a string of injuries that depleted their bench, leaving them with no substitutes for the final 25 minutes of play.
Despite their resilience, fatigue began to set in, and the Ivanhoes capitalised on their opponents' weariness, scoring three more tries in the closing stages of the match.
”All in all a pretty disappointing result and something we need to bounce back from quickly,” Sheppard said.
“In saying that there were some good performances from Matty Egan, Ryan Flegler, Reece Boyle and Bryce Fincham who made his debut and was really strong while he was on.”
