The Cougars women who are through to their second consecutive grand final: Back (from left) - Tyler Hocking, Sophie Lee, Chevy Parker, Leesa Hawking, Tash Johnson (coach), Eboni Clifton (captain), Montana Hargreaves, Paisley Shaw, Skye Rodger’s (vice captain), Brenden Johnson (assistant coach).Front: Camryn Andracchio, Kenz Winnell, Bridgette Lee, Shanae Murphy, Steph Johnstone, Georgia Farrington, Erin McGregor, Jayla Chisholm.
The Corowa Cougars women’s league tag team secured their place in a second consecutive grand final with a commanding 16-8 victory over Wangaratta Knights at Mooroopna Racecourse Recreation Reserve on Sunday.
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The men’s season concluded with a 74-4 defeat to Shepparton Eagles in their preliminary final encounter.
Women’s League Tag
Bridgette Lee alludes the defensive line with a backwards step.
The women’s league tag side showed tremendous character and determination to secure a hard-fought 16-8 victory over Wangaratta Knights, earning their place in the grand final for the second year running.
While the match may not have been the most polished performance of the season, the Cougar’s ability to grind out victory when not at their best demonstrated their mental toughness and competitive spirit.
Camryn Andracchio earned best on ground honours for her outstanding communication and execution of the team’s game plan.
Her safe and dependable performance provided a strong foundation for the team, with her defensive work particularly impressive as she made crucial tags throughout the match.
Her constant communication kept the team organised and focused during the most challenging moments of the contest.
Special recognition went to Tash Johnson for her control in the halfback position throughout the 50 minutes.
Bridgette Lee was instrumental in the victory, crossing for two vital tries that showcased both her individual brilliance and the team’s attacking structures.
Her first try came from a kick return in the eighth minute, where she demonstrated exceptional speed and footwork to weave through a broken defensive line and establish early momentum for the Cougars.
Her second try in the 45th minute came from an inside ball from halfback Tash Johnson, with the combination play sealing the victory and demonstrating the understanding that has developed between the team’s key playmakers throughout the season.
Sophie Lee delivered one of her trademark runaway tries in the 40th minute, showcasing the pace and finishing ability that has made her such a dangerous attacking weapon throughout the campaign.
Her ability to break games open with long-range efforts continues to be a crucial component of the team’s success.
The forward pack provided an outstanding platform for victory, with Shanae Murphy delivering another dependable performance both in the forwards and at hooker.
Her versatility and work rate have been consistent themes throughout the season, and her contribution was crucial in controlling the middle of the field.
Kenz Winnell demonstrated her attacking and defensive prowess throughout the encounter, making key tags while inserting herself as a ball-playing utility that created problems for the Knights’ defensive structure.
Skye Rodgers converted two of the team’s three tries, keeping the Knights under constant pressure with her attacking running game.
Sophie Lee gives a ball.
Tyler Hocking made several crucial defensive tags while maintaining her strong attacking forward role, providing the kind of complete performance that has characterized her season.
The wing combination of Montana Hargreaves and Camryn Andracchio held their positions strong, keeping their inside defenders accountable while providing reliable support in both attack and defence.
In the centres, Leesa Hawking and Georgia Farrington were powerful runners who consistently made significant metres throughout the contest.
Eboni Clifton provided safe service from the hooker position getting involved in attack and challenging the Knights line with footwork.
The bench contribution was exceptional, with Paisley Shaw, Chevy Parker, Stephanie Johnstone, and Erin McGregor all making valuable contributions when called upon. Their fresh legs and enthusiasm in the middle of the field showcased the impressive depth of talent within the Cougars squad and the team’s ability to maintain intensity throughout the full contest.
Men’s Rugby League
Blade Parker makes a tackle, assisted by Billy Nicholls.
The men’s season concluded with a 74-4 defeat to Shepparton Eagles in challenging circumstances, but the team’s approach to the contest demonstrated the character and sportsmanship that has defined their campaign.
Those players who took the field showed tremendous heart against a determined Shepparton side, never dropping their heads despite the difficult scoreline. The team committed to competing until the final whistle.
The season has been one of development for the men’s squad, with numerous players stepping up to contribute throughout the campaign while many others were sidelined with injury.
In true Cougars fashion, many remained to support the club.
Billy Nicholls earned Players’ Player honours for his leadership and commitment throughout both the match and the season, while Brad Nicholson was named runner-up for his contributions to the team’s efforts.
While the result was disappointing, the men can hold their heads high knowing they gave everything for the Cougars jersey and represented the club with pride throughout a challenging season.
Grand Final bound
The women’s progression to their second consecutive grand final represents an outstanding achievement that reflects the dedication, talent, and team spirit that has characterised their journey throughout the season.
The grand final will be played at Glenrowan on Saturday, September 7 at 12pm, where the Cougars will have the opportunity to claim the ultimate prize and cap off what has already been a remarkable season.
The entire Cougars community will rally behind the women’s team as they pursue grand final glory, with the support of the club and broader community providing additional motivation for what promises to be an unforgettable occasion in Glenrowan.
