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Gippsland Rugby League

Gippsland Wildcats has suffered a major setback in its bid to remain in the top four today after it was soundly beaten by Ballarat Highlanders 40 – 8 at Ballarat yesterday.

By Gippsland Rugby League - 16th June 2003 - Back to News

For the fourth time in as many weeks Wildcats self-destructed in the second half to maintain possession in attack as the Highlanders exploited the visitor’s lack of ball control.

After a strong opening 20 minutes in which the Highlanders dominated play overrunning Wildcats with three tries converted. Wildcats managed to claw their way back into the contest for Chris McRae to score the only unconverted try in this half.

"It was a game we pretty much should have had in control given Highlanders fifth rating on the ladder," Wildcats coach Jeff Hiriaki explained.

Hiriaki lamented his side’s inability to maintain ball control as poor passing and irrational decision making became standard in both halves.

Highlanders hunger for their first win of the season came from players awareness that this may be their last match before considering going into recess.

"The Public Liability Insurance has been looming over our heads unable to secure sponsors and lack of support with fundraising to meet these costs", explained Highlanders coach Riki Katu. Despite Highlanders demise, the win would provide a boost of confidence towards the final decision at their crisis meeting on Wednesday.

The early signs looked promising for Wildcats with debut players Reece De Goey and Urich Sampson showing signs of potential. But Wildcats suffered a major setback as Vincent Hiriaki and Robert Hall left the field without returning due to injury. Forward pack David McLaughlin, Shawn McAvoy and half back Tommy Tangohou displayed exemplary skills holding up the fort.

Highlanders ran rampant in the second half piling on four tries, three converted with one penalty. As a consolation, Craig Legg scored the only try unconverted at the sound of the hooter, Ballarat 40 –8.

Wildcats travel to Langshaw Reserve, Altona next week. If Wildcats were to secure some kind of credibility on the field, they would need to lift their game with ball retention and decision-making. Altona who has dominated the competition will be a tough team as they have colts stepping up to the plate that could easily find Wildcats on the trot. The bus will leave Ryan’s car park at 10am sharp for a 1:00PM kick off.

Tries Chris McRae (1); Craig Legg (1)

Player Awards: Chris McRae; Craig Legg & Tommy Tangohau

Players Player Chris McRae

Round 6

RESULTS

Sharks 28 def Waverley 8 Ballarat 40 def Gippsland 8

BYE: Altona

Source: http://gippsland.com/

Published by: news@gippsland.com

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