The Blue Heelers women managed one win in their debut in the Proten Cup League.
The Deniliquin Blue Heelers have taken plenty of positives from last weekend’s Proten Cup knockout, with both the men’s and women’s sides showing improvement ahead of this Saturday’s round one trip to Ivanhoe.
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Hillston claimed the men’s title with three dominant wins and no tries conceded, while Ivanhoe won the women’s final 4‑0.
But for Deniliquin, the day was about building combinations, testing new players and getting valuable minutes before the season properly kicks off.
The Blue Heelers women made their long‑awaited introduction to the knockout after being unable to field a side last year, and impressed early with a 6‑all draw against Hillston.
Their second outing saw them fall 16‑0 to Rankins Springs, but the squad left Goolgowi encouraged by their first hit‑out and the depth shown by several players backing up across games.
Deniliquin’s men faced a tougher day out, unable to get on the scoreboard.
They went down to Hillston 28‑0, and then Ivanhoe 40‑0.
Despite the results, the side showed signs of improvement with a stronger squad than last season, though a couple of injuries added to the challenge.
Coach Drew Hinkley said the knockout provided a clear picture of where the team was at leading into round one, which is being played this Saturday.
“It definitely was a large improvement all around.
“I’m proud of the bunch. The effort from everyone was promising, and our new halves pairing was looking good.
“We’ve had a large injury toll, with a few players out and a few returning, but it’s been good to see the group stick together.”
The 2026 Deni Blue Heelers men's and women's teams ahead of the knockout.
In this weekend’s round one clash, Deni’s sides face defending premiers Barellan.
Barellan missed the knockout, and will be taking the field with fresh legs for the first time this year.
The women’s match‑up is particularly intriguing, with Barellan losing several representative players due to new eligibility rules.
The strong showing against Hillston has given the squad confidence heading into their first official competition game.
The men will be looking to close the gap on last year’s 60‑0 result against the Rams, with a full year of experience now behind them.
Barellan remain an unknown quantity after a quiet pre‑season, but with reigning Player of the Year Noah Forbutt leading them, they are expected to be a major threat.
The Blue Heelers travel to Ivanhoe this weekend with renewed belief and a clearer sense of direction, hoping to turn their early‑season groundwork into a strong start.
