While the final scoreline suggests a comfortable victory, the match provided a much sterner test than the numbers indicate. The Cougars showed their growing maturity by grinding through a physical encounter before pulling away decisively in the final third of the contest.
The team entered the match with a clear defensive strategy, and their commitment to that game plan proved crucial in establishing the foundation for the win.
The physical nature of the contest tested every player’s resolve, but the Cougars’ defensive line held firm when it mattered most.
One defining moment of the match came when the Knights mounted sustained pressure, with the Cougars giving away a seven-penalty attacking set.
The team’s defensive steel was evident as they absorbed the pressure and kept their line intact, demonstrating the resilience that will remain a focus until the end of their 2025 season.
Once the defensive foundation was established, the team’s attacking structures began to flourish.
The right-side combination of five-eighth Kenz Winnell and centre Skye Rodgers proved particularly strong, with their understanding and timing creating multiple scoring opportunities throughout the match.
Mackenzie Winnell opened the scoring in the 16th minute, setting the tone for what would become a dominant attacking display.
Eboni Clifton extended the lead with her try in the 33rd minute, before the team pulled away with further scores from Sophie Lee (36th minute), Leesa Hawking (40th minute), and Skye Rodgers (48th minute).
The left-side partnership between lock Sophie Lee and centre Leesa Hawking also proved highly effective, with their combination play causing constant problems for the Knights’ defensive structure.
Their ability to create space and time for each other was instrumental in several scoring movements.
The forward pack provided the platform for success through their tireless work in the middle of the field. Shanae Murphy, Tyler Hocking, and Paisley Shaw consistently won tags and created quick play-the-ball speed that allowed the team’s creative players to operate with time and space.
On the wing Georgia Farrington made significant contributions through her supporting runs and ability to bring the ball back in red set runs, providing crucial momentum shifts.
Skye Rodgers’ kicked three of the five conversions to complement the team’s attacking dominance.
Sophie Lee earned Players’ Player honours for her outstanding performance, Leesa Hawking was named runner-up for her dynamic display, while Skye Rodgers received the Coaches Award and Jayla Chisholm was recognised with the Old Boys award.
Looking Ahead
Next Sunday presents a significant occasion for the Cougars faithful, with five games scheduled at home for their second-last regular season home fixture of 2025.
The action kicks off at 9:45am with Border Bears taking on Wolfpack, followed by CSU Muddogs versus Wangaratta Knights at 11:00am, and the Cougars women facing Tumbarumba Greens at 12:15pm.
The men’s action follows at 1:30pm when the Border Bears versus Tumbarumba Greens followed by Cougars taking on Wangaratta Knights at 3:15pm.
Entry is $5 for patrons 16 and over, with the bar opening at 12pm to ensure supporters can enjoy the full day of rugby league action.
The packed schedule provides excellent value for local sports fans looking to support their community teams.
With the finals series rapidly approaching, every match takes on added significance as teams jockey for position and build the combinations that will be crucial in the high-pressure environment of knockout finals football.
