Perth-Bayswater
Rugby Union Football Club
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Perth-Bayswater Rugby Union Football Club |
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| CHRISTMAS WISHES |
| 21 December 2007 |
The President and Committee of Perth-Bayswater Rugby Union Football Club would like to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year, and a happy and safe holiday during the festive season.
| PRE-SEASON TRAINING |
| 20 December 2007 |
Looking forward to getting fit again? Yes, I hear you all think. That's good as pre-season training is starting on the 8th of January at Pat O'Hara Reserve. Training for men, women and colts will be every Tuesday, Thursday and Sundays (venues for Sunday to be announced). There will be a world-renowned fitness and strength conditioning coach in attendance to make sure you get the most out of every session.
| RUGBY COACHES MANAGERS WANTED |
| 6 November 2007 |
Apply now if you want to be a part of Perth's premier rugby club and be a part of an exciting future.
Perth Bayswater RUFC is seeking expressions of interest and applications from qualified people for the following positions:
Please apply in the first instance to John Taylor - Club Coach, Perth Bayswater.
Email: johnandjacque@hotmail.com or contact on 0439954159.
Please include full rugby resume, references and any other relevant information. (Applications close on November 16.)
| 5th GRADE ANNUAL WEDGIE |
| 5 November 2007 |
Filthy Fat Fifth Grade made their annual end-of-season pilgrimage to the secret meditation sanctuary of the team's spiritual guru, Peter Westaway. An advance party made their way up to Wedge on Friday which included Barr Fridge, Japie, Handsome Danny Vella, Kelvin and Peter Westaway while the rest of the team who have jobs had to wait until Saturday morning before they could depart.
We meet at the club 7.30am on Saturday where provisions were loaded up on a convoy of four wheel drives before setting off on the trip to Lancelin via a stop to pickup big Cliff "Man Boobs" Mataseni. Cliff was five minutes late and very nearly got left behind. Turns out it was Cliff's wife's birthday and he was giving her a present which just shows what a team man Cliff is coming on this trip. It also shows that Cliff lasts about as long as most blokes do....
The team's next stop was the bakery at Lancelin were the lads almost wiped out the town's yearly pie supply in one visit, then it was time to hit the beach for the drive up to Wedge along the beautiful coastline to the Evil Westerway Gang's hideout. The ET Mining crew vehicle found the sand a bit soft so the team had to do a some digging and pushing to get big Pat's rig out but with "Frankie goes to Hollywood" riding shotgun while Tom "Madman" Lynch provided technical advice supplied by Tooheys Brewery from the back seat, the convoy rolled on.
On arrival at the shack there was no one to be found. Then a few minutes later over the horizon there appeared a figure which the team mistakenly took as being the messiah coming to greet them. Instead it turned out to be fat fifth grade drunken layabout "Handsome" Danny Vella who was more interested in what extra booze was on board than welcoming his team mates. The lads unpacked the vehicles before heading down to the beach for a few beers, a game of cricket and a swim before a late lunch of hotdogs with the works (which included a few of the billion flies that decided to spend the weekend with us). After this fine gourmet meal some of the lads carried on jet skiing while others took a ride on the motor bike (Chachi, we know you broke the brake lever) or went for a drive up the dunes while the Westaways with Grumps as crew went fishing. Some of us decided to make sure the piss was well guarded while the rest of the team was away and risked their personal safety (and health) by not moving more than staggering distance from the eskies.
As the sun set the lads settled in around the campfire for an evening of laughter, singing, club stories that have become things of legend and a lot of drinking. Bert "Two Left Feet" Bothwell who is clearly affected by the change to daylight saving managed to put the spuds on for dinner before taking a nap that lasted to Sunday morning when he was awoken early on Sunday by the need for a techno colour yawn. A mighty feed for dinner was produced consisting of potato salad (Kelvin), coleslaw (The Train) and big juicy steaks (Barr Fridge) which was washed down with a few more beers. Dishes were done by the Fridge and Phil "The Legend of the Valleys" Oliver who was the only one sober enough to know where the dishes went. This was due to the fact that Phil was only allowed to drink light beer because last time he was allowed out drinking with the Westaway brothers he ended up in hospital the next day with a intravenous drip stuck into his arm.
After dinner we had the official part of the evening with the
following
awards being presented:
Tom Lynch - The "I will retire next year" award (he just can't seem to
give the game away)
Chachi - The "Viagra" award (no one can keep it up for that long
without
some help)
Japie - The "Kenny" award (because he's either talking shit or in it)
Danny Vella - The "Ben Cousins" award (because he's always getting in
trouble)
Pat Ngaropo - The "Scarlet Pimpernel" award (because we were not sure
if
he is real or a figment of our imagination)
Fridge - The "Claytons Rugby Player" award (because ten minutes each
game doesn't count)
The Westaway Brothers - The "Number 1 Ticket Holders" award (for being
our best supporters year after year)
And last of all, a wrong was put right when Shane "Barr Fridge" was
presented with the Best Back award that was incorrectly presented to
his
brother Dwain at the club presentation dinner in September.
The night got a bit rough later when Tony, Cliff, Barr Fridge and Danny decided to half wreck the shack by having a tackle competition indoors. Westie had to have strong words with these young men and threaten the use of the sin bin. The party finished sometime in the wee hours of the morning with people finding any spot they could to get a kip including Lex (sent on the trip by first grade management to spy on the fifth grade's secret training methods) who slept on the roof while Fridge decided it was safer to give up his swag and to top and tail with Kelvin instead of fighting big Tom "Madman" Lynch for it. Next morning after a breakfast of bacon, beans and eggs the last of the grog was finished off before breaking camp early afternoon for the trip home.
Finally we want to thank the Westaways for the use of their shack plus Grunter and Dwain for organising the weekend.
| IMPORTANT DATES |
| 25 October 2007 |
There is a strategic planning meeting at the club this Sunday 28th October 10am, to develop ideas regarding the future of our club.
The AGM is on Thursday evening November 15th from 7.00pm. All committee positions are available for nomination, nomination forms available at the bar on Wednesday evenings at touch or from the Club Secretary John Robertson.
Nominations are to be with the Club Secretary one week before the AGM or available on the night if the positions are not filled.
| SUMMER TOUCH RUGBY |
| 8 October 2007 |
Perth-Bayswater's Summer Touch Rugby starts up again from this Wednesday. Registrations to be done on the night if you already have a team together, otherwise come down and we'll find one for you. For further details contact Bob Whitney on (08)9274 6027.
| ANNUAL DINNER UPDATE |
| 27 September 2007 |
The annual dinner this Saturday night kicks off at 6.30, the dinner will be held in the Golden Nugget Room. For those of you who will be driving you will need to park at gate 16 as there is a race meet on at the same time. Gates will be opening at 5.30 ( if you're interested first race is at 1937).
| McLEAN CLEANS UP J.J.GUTHRIE AWARD |
| 21 September 2007 |
Halfback Curtis McLean was the deserving winner of Perth-Bayswater's annual first grade best and fairest award, the J.J.Guthrie Trophy, in the awards ceremony at the clubrooms tonight.
A selection of three club members a game allocated 3-2-1 best and fairest points for each game of the season. The outstanding halfback, who perfomed magnificently all season behind a premiership winning pack, gathered points steadily throughout the countdown.
Japanese fullback Matsushita Kaoru led the count on 36 points at the half way stage, but was overtaken by McLean into the second half of the year. Late addition to the team, flyhalf Robbie O'Sullivan, accumulated big points in the later stages but couldn't catch his halfback who finished on 42 points to win the trophy. Locks Brent Murphy and Jock Stanley, and flankers Cameron Stoneley and Gareth Cherrington, were the other outstanding performers recognised in the countdown.
McLean was awarded the trophy by President Jack Seymour along with $500 prize money. The award was sponsored by the Morley Alehouse. Congratulations to Curtis McLean on winning the J.J.Guthrie Award for 2007 after a barnstorming year with Perth-Bayswater's 2007 First Grade Premiership team.
| BLACK MAGIC GRABS GRAND FINAL GLORY |
| 15 September 2007 |
In a dramatic finish of heart-stopping tension, underdogs Perth-Bayswater clung to a slender 15-13 lead for ten thrilling minutes to win the 2007 Home Building Society first grade grand final against minor premier Nedlands at Members Equity Stadium today. Perth-Bayswater flyhalf Robbie O'Sullivan drew the game at 13-13 with a brilliant individual try late in the second half, and landed the conversion from a moderate angle to steal the lead. The minor premier threw everything at Perth-Bayswater in the closing stages, hammering their line with every move in the book, but when a last gasp drop goal was charged down on the bell, Neddies were staring at defeat.
Perth-Bayswater were enterprising early and flyhalf Robbie O'Sullivan bounced a penalty attempt off the post after four minutes. But a couple of penalties put the minor premier on attack and they hammered Perth-Bayswater's line, slotting a penalty for hands in the ruck after 11 minutes. Perth-Bayswater kicked back into position and O'Sullivan converted a moderate penalty chance for diving over the ruck, to even the scores at 3-3 after 16 minutes. Perth-Bayswater worked hard in the tight but when Nedlands tapped and ran a quick penalty for not releasing, they caught the Perth-Bayswater defence out of place and raced in for the try beside the posts unopposed. Neddies converted from in front for a 10-3 lead after 23 minutes. They stayed on attack and had two more good scoring opportunities but Perth-Bayswater hung on until Nedlands edged ahead with a long range penalty goal after 30 minutes. Perth-Bayswater looked like they were barely in the game but a big scrum secured a tighthead and a couple of penalties put black back on attack. Nedlands robbed two lineouts to release the pressure as Perth-Bayswater's trademark pick and drives took their toll, and the minor premier took the 13-3 lead into the break, despite losing a player to the sin bin for a professional foul.
Nedlands threatened in the early stages of the second spell but a penalty put Perth-Bayswater back on attack with a great sideline run by centre Damian Milich. A superb corner kick by O'Sullivan gave Perth-Bayswater an attacking lineout five metres out and the black forwards drove over for a try to lock Jock Stanley. O'Sullivan's sideline conversion missed but a sizzling run by the flyhalf gave Perth-Bayswater another great attacking position. However, a patient Neddies worked back down the field and again pressured the opposition with well combined forward and back line movements. Raking kicks by Neddies' flyhalf played the smart finals game to keep Perth-Bayswater pinned in their 22. Perth-Bayswater were patient in turn and kicked their way out of trouble by the 20 minute mark, man of the match lock Brent Murphy stealing a crucial lineout to put black back on attack. Perth-Bayswater had the chance to close the gap with a 30 metre penalty chance but O'Sullivan drifted the kick wide. However, a minute later the mercurial flyhalf took the ball blind from a scrum, cut through the Nedlands defence in close and scored midway between the posts and the sideline. This time the angled kick went over and the challengers seized the lead 15-13 with ten minutes to play. Prop Dane Taingahue was yellow carded for foul play with five minutes on the clock, but showing tremendous patience and discipline with one man down, Perth-Bayswater defended heroically against wave after wave of Nedlands attack without conceding a penalty in a desperately tight defensive battle. Nedlands bashed away after the final siren as Perth-Bayswater hung on grimly, Perth-Bayswater's vocal supporters erupting in wild celebration as the final whistle signalled their first premiership since 1996.
It was a magnificent effort by the whole team, from the starting XV to the quality subs who came on at crucial times: Daniel Kahotea, captain Ash Murphy, Dane Taingahue, Brent Murphy, Jock Stanley, Gareth Cherrinton, Shannon Christie, Cale McCort, Curtis Mclean, Robbie O'Sullivan, Patrick Brooks, Damian Milich, Chez Bloxham, Nathan Swayne, Nick Holley, Cameron Stoneley, Glenn Nolan, Michael Murphy, Taukau Patu, Mark Gaskin, Andre Taurerewa and PJ Pittman.
It was a victory carried home on the shoulders of two Perth-Bayswater giants: coach John 'JT' Taylor, who has done so much to revitalise Perth-Bayswater rugby and give the team the belief to scale Everest; and president Jack Seymour, who has taken the club to new heights with his inspirational leadership.
Assistant coach Lex Wilson and manager Barry Dorset earn their share of the glory for hard work and dedication along with medical staff Ben Harrison and Lisa Richardson, and faithful crew members such as Steve McCormick and Kerry Buist. Old faces and new were out in force to cheer home Perth-Bayswater in their hour of victory in one of the proudest days in the club's long history.
In the earlier Under 19 Division One grand final, Joondalup and Perth-Bayswater Black shared the 2007 premiership after drawing 14-14 at full time.
| THE BLACK BULLDOZER CRUSHES PALMYRA |
| 10 September 2007 |
Perth-Bayswater scored an astonishing 41-18 victory over Palmyra in today’s Home Building Society preliminary final at Members Equity Stadium, sending the Morley club through to next week’s grand final against minor premier Nedlands. Perth-Bayswater has struggled for execution all season, grinding out close games based on a massive forward pack and abrasive, defensive backs. They had their work cut out for them today against Palmyra’s fleet, skilful backline but a huge second half based on overwhelming forward drive and passion carried the boys in black to a stunning blowout victory.
Palmyra set the scene early, racing onto attack with a midfield break and running width of the field attacks at Perth-Bayswater's line. A penalty four minutes in was converted from the 22 but two minutes later Perth-Bayswater responded when flyhalf Robbie O'Sullivan slotted an identical kick for not rolling away. Perth's big boys thumped up the middle of the park and from a penalty lineout after 12 minutes, and a series of powerful pick and drives, blindside flanker Gareth Cherrington peeled off a ruck and surged over for the try. The conversion slid off target but black led 8-3. Paly surged back onto attack and from a penalty lineout 10 metres out, cut clean through the defence for a try behind the posts. The try was converted from in front and Paly took the lead 10-8. Perth-Bayswater's massive scrum kept them on attack but the game threatened to lose its way when three players were yellow carded -- two from Perth and one from Palmyra -- following a brawl after 25 minutes. Then Palmyra almost scored from a kick through, on the half hour, but the ball beat both teams over the dead ball line. Palmyra were almost in again minutes later in a length of the field sweep but were tackled short of the line. Palmyra kept running the ball wide and a score was inevitable as Perth-Bayswater's defence was stretched from side to side with two men missing, their wing racing over in the corner after 26 minutes. The conversion missed and Perth-Bayswater rumbled back down the park, the inside backs and loose forwards combining with sharp passing in close for a sparkling try to centre Michael Lee just before half time. O'Sullivan converted to tie the score at 15 all going into the break.
Perth-Bayswater came close to scoring early in the second spell when their bulldozer scrum forced a penalty, and a series of pick and drives brought them up against the goal post pad. A huge five yard scrum drove them over for the try claimed by number eight Cale McCort under the bar and O'Sullivan did the honours from point blank range for a 22-15 lead 12 minutes in. Palmyra closed the gap with a 30 metre penalty two minutes later but the Morley team drove back onto attack, punching the opposition line with rolling mauls. Palmyra conceded a penalty, O'Sullivan kicked for the line and Perth-Bayswater caught Palmyra napping with a quick throw in, prop Taukau Patu scoring a try in the corner to surge ahead 27-18 after 17 minutes. Palmyra tried to open up and use their attacking skills but Perth-Bayswater intercepted and battered Palmyra's line with relentless forward assaults. Another bulldozer scrum from Perth-Bayswater turned over Palmyra ball five metres out and hooker Ash Murphy drove over for the try on the blindside. O'Sullivan converted and black shot out to 34-18 lead. To add insult to injury, a poor kick off sent the ball straight to Perth-Bayswater wing Damian Milich in open space and he sprinted 70 metres to score under the bar. O'Sullivan converted and Perth-Bayswater supporters went into transports of disbelieving ecstasy at the astonishing 41-18 score.
The game fragmented for the final ten minutes and Palmyra worked hard for a consolation try, but Perth-Bayswater defended stoutly until full time.
In other games today, Perth-Bayswater women won their grand final 15-12 over Cottesloe, and Perth-Bayswater Black defeated Nedlands Blue 22-20 in division 1 colts to go through to next week’s grand final. Nedlands Gold downed Perth-Bayswater White 18-14 in the colts division 2 Preliminary Final.
| SEMI-FINAL TRIUMPH |
| 2 September 2007 |
Perth-Bayswater first grade ground out a tight, tough 11-10 win over Kalamunda in today’s Home Building Society minor semi-final at Rugby Park, in a grim, eighty minute battle that finished with nerve-wracking drama.
A Perth-Bayswater knock on gave Kalamunda early impetus and despite the boys in black stealing a number of lineout throws, the Bulls stayed on attack only to blow a certain try eight minutes in by passing out over the sideline with the line wide open. Then Kalamunda duffed a wide penalty chance after 11 minutes when the ball fell off the tee as their kicker started his approach and Perth-Bayswater escaped upfield. Perth-Bayswater flyhalf Robbie O'Sullivan bounced a wide penalty attempt off the posts after 17 minutes as the men in black enjoyed a period of attack, but without result in a tight, even semi-final. O'Sullivan pushed another long range penalty wide seven minutes later and a third from 35 metres at the 25 minute mark, as Perth-Bayswater had the better of play but were frustrated by the scarcity of points. The boys in black opted for a lineout for their next penalty and hammered the Bulls' line with heavy pick and drives for ten minutes, O'Sullivan eventually popping over a drop goal after 35 minutes. But just before half time, Kalamunda's centre broke down the blind side of a scrum and their wing ran through the tackle to score in the corner. The conversion faded away left but the Bulls led 5-3. Perth-Bayswater finished the half on attack after a Kalamunda knock on and almost scored from a kick through but the Bulls defender won the race to touch down in goal.
Perth-Bayswater resumed attack to open the second spell and four minutes in O'Sullivan came within centimetres of a try after kicking through the defence, but knocked the bouncing ball on attempting the touchdown. The black forwards hammered Kalamunda's line again with crunching forward drives but knocked on and Kalamunda escaped, only for Perth to steal their lineout and go back on attack. Perth-Bayswater plugged away with lock Brent Murphy pilfering lineout ball at will, but black struggled for penetration out wide and Kalamunda's defence was heroic as they repelled wave after wave of forward charges. It was 20 minutes before Kalamunda escaped their half, but that was for moments only and Perth-Bayswater was back on attack, however with little to show for complete domination of territory. Kalamunda lost a player to the sin bin and after another prolonged forward assault on Kalamunda's line on the half hour, O'Sullivan slotted another drop goal from 20 metres out to grab the lead 6-5. Two minutes later, a Bulls fumble on the line receiving a long kick was nabbed by Perth-Bayswater and replacement forward Mike Murphy plunged over for the try. The conversion from the sideline missed but Perth-Bayswater had taken the game by the scruff of the neck at 11-5. Securely in front, Perth-Bayswater’s control of the game slipped and Kalamunda broke loose, twice coming within an ace of scoring: first from a kick through that bounced awkwardly, and then from a runaway try down the touchline that was called back for a forward pass. Perth-Bayswater scrambled in defence and conceded penalties as they hung on, losing wing Nathan Swayne to a yellow card. In the last play of the day, Kalamunda gained a penalty lineout and the Bulls forwards powered through and drove over for the try out wide. Perth-Bayswater's season looked about to end as the Kalamunda kicker lined up the difficult sideline conversion, but it fell short and black supporters went wild on the sidelines.
Perth-Bayswater coach John Taylor was a relieved man after the game.
“I was thinking, this is another one we’ve blown,” Taylor said, "We’ve done a few of those this year, but lucky for us the conversion didn’t go over. Unlucky for Kalamunda.”
Taylor was philosophical about his team’s failure to turn pressure into points.
“We did a few things wrong but I thought we played more with the ball in the back line. We made some basic mistakes but this is finals rugby and anything can happen. I want to take my hat off to Kalamunda. Their defence was outstanding. We had quite a bit of patience in our pick and drive, but probably not enough, and our discipline cost us in the second half.”
Taylor defended his team, who dominated strongly in the second half but seemed to relax after finally taking the lead in the game, allowing Kalamunda to almost snatch the game.
“I wouldn’t say relax, more just nervous energy,” Taylor said, “It’s finals rugby, it’s a totally new thing for a lot of these guys, now they understand what it means to be in a pressure-cooker situation where you lose, you’re out.”
Taylor nominated Perth-Bayswater’s forward driving play as the key to the win and paid tribute to halfback Curtis McLean and flyhalf Robbie O'Sullivan.
“The generalship of Curtis and Robbie guided as around the park pretty well,” Taylor said, "They’re fantastic players and we’re so lucky to have them.”
Taylor has six days to prepare his troops for the preliminary final showdown with Palmyra at Members Equity Stadium next Saturday.
“If we do what we did today, Palmyra will hurt us,” Taylor said, "We’ve got to work on our discipline and probably a bit more on our attacking plays but you can’t change much at this stage of the season, we’ll just concentrate on what we’re good at.”
But Taylor’s immediate priority was celebrating Perth-Bayswater’s first finals since 1997.
“It’s a big step for us and we’re pretty happy to be where we are,” Taylor said.
In other minor semi-finals today,it was the end of the season for two teams as Associates defeated Perth-Bayswater 30-20 in second grade and Arks defeated Perth-Bayswater 5-3 in fifth grade. But Perth-Bayswater came good in style in the under 19s, Black defeating Associates 35-18 in division 1 and White defeating Arks 31-19 in division 2.
Fifth Grade dropped out of premiership contention when they were defeated 5-3 by Arks in the minor semi-final at Tompkins Park. On a lovely sunny Fathers' Day by the river, the legends of the fifth grade gathered for another final and were quietly confident that they would have the experience to defeat the more youthful Arks side. Arks on the other hand wanted to make amends for last year's finals defeat at the hands of Perth and started the match with a lot more urgency than the boys in black. They controlled most of the possession and this paid dividends with an early try, to lead 5-0 into the breeze. The loss of Chachi early was a blow, as his ability to be first to the breakdown wins us a lot of second phase possession enabling us to keep the pressure on the opposition. Perth finally got down the other end of the paddock and after a couple of attempts at goal managed to slot one over from the boot of Shane Barr Fridge to trail 5-3 at the break.
The second half saw Perth perform more strongly and they were unlucky not to score. but the thing with finals rugby is you have to take the opportunities when they present themselves or you might not get another chance. This seemed to be the story of the second half and when points were there we either knocked the ball on, lost our throw into the lineout, gave away a penalty or did not move the ball at the right moment. This, combined with the lack of tackling in the first half and finishing, led to an early exit from the 2007 finals. We wish Arks all the best for the rest of the finals and they deserved their win.
Thanks to our coach Trev, manager Grunter and assistant Robbie for looking after the team this year. We all thank you plus we want to mention that Tom "Madman" Lynch has hung up is boots after many years of service in our front row. It was an honour to play in the same team as Tom and we wish him well. Hopefully some of us will manage a game of golden oldies with him for many more seasons.
| JJ GUTHRIE NIGHT |
| 29 August 2007 |
All Perth-Bayswater senior players and supporters are invited down to the club on Friday the 21st of September for this year's JJ Guthrie Awards. With votes given in a 3-2-1 format by supporters on every match day it's sure to go right down to the wire with strong performances from many players this year.
| ANNUAL DINNER |
| 29 August 2007 |
Perth-Bayswater will return to Beau Rivage on the 29th of September for their Annual Dinner. A night of drinking, good times and most importantly trophies. Tickets are available at the bar, be sure to get in quick as there is a limited number and you wouldn't want to miss out.
| JUNIORS PRESENTATION |
| 29 August 2007 |
The Junior Club are holding their End-of-Season Presentation in the Wellington Room, The Morley Sport and Recreation Centre on Sunday October 14 from 1 to 4 pm. See the Flyer.
| PERTH OUTSMART UNI |
| 21 August 2007 |
It's going to be a very black and white day at Rugby Park on Sunday in the minor semi-finals, with all games featuring a Perth-Bayswater team. Having already secured fourth place on the ladder, Saturday's game was a last chance for several players to stake their claim for a starting place in the final. Unfortunately not all went according to plan, and it took a strong second half performance to win 34-9 against a spirited University side.
In a slow first half, two quick penalties had black 6-0 down early on. Perth-Bayswater struggled to find the form of recent games and were pinned in their own half for much of the half. Unable to find touch on clearing kicks into the wind, unable to create a break through University's defence and a yellow card to Cale McCort for having his fist head butted by a rogue Uni player, they found themselves 9-0 down.
A late penalty to lock Jonathon Stanley and the score was 9-3 going into half time.
It was as if a different team turned up after half time, with the wind at their backs Perth had the upper hand early on when tricky winger Nathan Swayne had the Uni defence dazzled with a darting run to the corner, drawing three players and about to be bundled into touch, he threw a no-look pass over his shoulder to centre Patrick Brooke a try under the posts.
Mike "Scruffy" Murphy, the new poster boy of Perth-Bayswater, came off the bench and scored two tries both on the back of some patient ruck and maul work close to the line.
Celebrations were dampaned for several players on the day, the fickle lady that is luck saw fit to produce a couple of injuries. Winger Erin Winiata season is over after suffering a serious knee injury and skipper Shannon Christie was seeing stars thanks to a tackle that was somehow deemed not to be high.
Something that will need to be addressed by the powers that be at Rugby WA will be how a first grade team needs uncontested scrums midway through the first half. Not for the first time this season the Perth scrum has been rendered powerless by teams opting to go uncontested. In this game it did not end up affecting the result as Perth kept Uni scoreless in the second half to go on to win 34-9.
Perth-Bayswater's reward for an excellent season is a minor semi-final appearance against local rivals Kalamunda at 3.15 at Rugby Park.
Joining them on Sunday will be second grade and both colts teams. Click here for a full list of finals fixtures.
Second Grade secured their place in the finals in a free flowing 50-19 victory. Third grade couldn't finish the season on a high note, losing 33-12. Fifth Grade will be playing their minor semi final at Tompkins Park on Sunday against Arks at 12.30. Fifths finishing the season in fourth place on points difference, their 33-15 victory not enough to escalate them to third.
In one of the games of the day, Under 19 Perth White needed to beat University to steal fourth spot from them. A try at the death capped with a drop goal moments later secured victory for Perth White 22-2. Perth Black, already assured of finals footbal,l were too good for Cottesloe winning 36-3.
Perth's minor premiership team, our ladies, will be playing on Saturday at Brittania at 11.50. They finished the season undefeated, winning convincingly against University women's side.
| PERTH SECURES FINALS BERTH |
| 21 August 2007 |
In another Perth-Bayswater try fest, Perth were too good for Rockingham in their last game at Dowling St before they move to their new ground at Lark Hill (somewhere between Port Kennedy and Secret Harbour, the bus trip just got longer) winning 44-7. The win secures a place in the minor semi-final against Kalamunda, and this will be the first time that Perth has finished in the top four since 1997.
Perth-Bayswater did not have it all their own way, they were up against a very determined and spirited Rockingham side. Playing into the wind in the first half Perth often made hard work of things, missing kicks for touch and failing to turn pressure into points after a series of lineouts close to the line. It took a moment of brilliance from the maestro Ruki Tipuna from inside our own half. He chipped over the top of the oncoming defence, then joined a race for the ball with the opposition fullback who attempted the regather while Ruki toed the ball on again. The ball bounced up for him nicely to sprint away untouched for the opening try of the match.
The game erupted midway through the first half with PJ Pittman taking exception to some slow ball from the Rockingham ruck, charged up from a 20 metre run in and sent the Rockingham pack scuttling. After a slight altercation, now-retired referee Henry Egan brandished two yellow cards, one for each team.
Patrick Brooks continued his stellar form for the season, playing inside centre he consistently broke the advantage line. He was rewarded with two tries, his first, Perth's second for the day, scored after a typical bustling run through the middle of several defenders carrying them and the ball over the line.
There were two low points to the game: injuries to key players PJ Pittman (concussed) and Gareth Cherington (knee) and we hope they recover in time for finals. However on the day, in a sign of this year's squad depth, we had two very able deputies in Ben Todd and Shaun Tamehana, both making very useful contributions to the game. In the last few minutes of the half Rocky made a break down their right wing, with only PJ to beat, PJ put his body on the line and stopped the attacker in his tracks. This allowed Perth's defence to catch up turn the ball over and kick to the safety of the touchline. PJ left the field on a stretcher and it could well have been the turning point for the game.
Perth started the second half 17-0 up, with the wind at their backs the kicking game improved and Perth returned every ball with interest. It was obvious from the sideline that the Rockingham team was tiring, they had no answer for Perth's elusive backline and powerful forward pack.
Saturday's scoring was dominated by the backs with three tries to Ruki Tipuna, two for Patrick Brooks and Erin Winiata backed up his try on debut last week by also scoring two. The game finished on a positive note for the home side when they scored a try in the dying minutes, the successful conversion making it 44-7.
Second Grade all but secured their position in 4th place a stirring 27-10 victory over Rockingham. A win this Saturday against bottom placed University will see them playing rugby in September. The victory was secured thanks to an inspiring performance from stand-in captain Beau Tume, scoring a hat-trick of tries. The fourth and all important bonus point try being scored by Canadian flanker Mike Hird.
In other results, thirds were unlucky again losing to Mandurah 48-10. Filthy Fifths also secured themselves a finals berth coming up trumps 23-21 over Mandurah. In the under 19s, Perth White had a bye and Perth Black narrowly missed out on victory over Nedlands, losing 20-14. Rounding up the results for the day, after initial confusion over ground location, Perth Women won 48-0 over third-placed Kalamunda.
This Saturday's home games have big implications for the competition tables, Perth having all but one team in contention to finish in the top four. The premiers have secured fourth spot, second grade need to win to make sure of theirs. Unfortunately, Third grade's season never reached the same heights as last year. Fifth grade's win means they can't miss out on the four, but depending on results can finish as high as second. Our women's team have remained undefeated all season and are looking to go one better than last year and take out the flag. In under 19 division 1, Perth Black can finish second again depending on results. Finally, in under 19 division 2, Perth White, currently in fifth need to beat fourth placed Universities to sneak into the finals. Certainly an exciting day of rugby ahead for all teams.
| ROO DOGS TAUGHT A LESSON |
| 14 August 2007 |
It was an impressive return to winning ways with tries aplenty at Pat O'Hara Reserve, Perth-Bayswater putting on an impressive 69-0 display over our northern suburbs neighbours Wanneroo. Player of the day Ruki Tipuna orchestrated the game with an array of darting runs and deft chip kicks resulting in a brace of tries for himself, ten for the team and seven conversions.
Perth-Bayswater came out of the gates like a wounded bull, obviously hurting from close loses in the three previous games. Any thought of nerves was soon settled when within minutes of the kick off the magnificent forwards drove straight through the heart of Wanneroo's forward pack from a lineout for a try.
Try of the day, maybe even the season, saw halfback Curtis throw a centering skip pass to tighthead prop Dane, who ran and drew a defender before throwing another skip pass to loosehead prop Tua. Tua set off down the wing from our 10m line taking the ball into the Wanneroo half, offloading in the tackle to wing Mark "Goony" Gaskin. Mark in turn darted down the line and just before being tackled into touch toed the ball ahead. Number 8 Cale McCort gathered the ball and made towards the try line, just inside the opposition 22 he passed inside to hooker Ash Murphy, Ash took off showing Wanneroo a clean set of heels and crossed the line for Perth Bayswater's second try for the day.
What was to follow was what the Perth Bayswater supporters have been craving all season - a game won in style. There were none of the usual lapses in concentration or allowing the opposition back into the game.
In another impressive display on the day, usual flying winger Damien Millich moved out of his normal position into centre, capping off a fine display with two tries. Other try scorers on the day were Curtis, Shannon, Gareth and debutants Erin, and colts winger Shaun.
It was hard for Coach JT not to be happy with today's result, it was a clinical display on the back of some patient build-up play. He also made it known that there will be a real test next week when we have to travel down to Rockingham. Perth will have to be on top of their game with Associates only three points behind.
In other results Perth's second grade saw why there is nothing impossible in the game of rugby when fourth-placed Kalamunda lost their game to Wests. Meaning Perth are only three points in arrears after coming from behind to beat Wanneroo 31-27.
Unfortunately third grade's poor season continued, going down to Joondalup; Filthy Fifths suffering the same result, also losing out to Joondalup. Both Perth-Bayswater colts team enjoyed their Saturday, Perth White victorious against Wanneroo and Perth Black beating Rockingham. Rounding off the day, Perth Women's undefeated season continued against Wanneroo.
Fifth Grade went down to Joondalup 35-10 at home on Saturday. A flat fifths took the field and it looked as if the last minute loss to Nedlands last week had taken its toll on the team with a number of players missing due to injury or work commitments. Brothers scored first with a converted try to lead 7-0, which lasted most of the first half until Shane Barr Fridge slotted a penalty to make it 7-3. Joondalup added a penalty just on the break to take a 10-3 led into half time.
Perth got the riot act read to them by Super Coach Trev and the Train at half time and came out more committed for the second half. Perth controlled a lot of the ball and with about fifteen minutes left on the clock produced an attacking foray into Joondalup's half which led to them pounding the goal line. Porky Selfton spied an unmarked Barr Fridge out wide and put the perfect pass right in the sweet spot for Shane to score. Shane then converted from the sideline for a 10-10 score line and things looking bright for the home side. Unfortunately Joondalup snapped a couple of goals and then a runaway try which took Perth's breath away. With their heads down the boys in black let in a couple of more tries to end up being flogged 35-10.
| YET ANOTHER CLOSE THRILLER LOST |
| 6 August 2007 |
Perth-Bayswater fell to competition leaders Nedlands by a single point in a tightly-fought match at the Nedlands foreshore on Saturday.
The lead changed several times in the 21-22 defeat as, late in the game, Perth-Bayswater looked like snatching a win but Nedlands line break to score under the posts put the game beyond reach.
Perth-Bayswater's tight five showed yet again that they are the dominant pack in the competition but Nedlands' structured backline and ball-carrying lose forwards continually threatened to break the game open out wide.
The referee was clearly eager to prove he hadn't forgotten to bring his cards, dishing out two yellow cards each team. Nedlands opened the scoring with a penalty after about five minutes and piled early pressure on the Baysie defences but as the men in black managed to grind out territory, they were rewarded with an equalising penalty.
Nedlands scored their first try by spinning the ball wide, while Baysie's came from its pick-and-drive game sending Nedlands' close defence backwards.
Neither try was converted and the scores were locked at 8-8 for some time until a penalty for Perth-Bayswater finally handed them the lead. Perth-Bayswater first five-eighth Ruki Tipuna put in another outstanding performance, running elusively to break the Nedlands' line and creating territory through his kicking game.
Nedlands were forced to resort to treachery to try to stop Baysie's dominant forward game, causing the referee to award a penalty try and go to his pocket for yet another yellow card.
In the lead and with the wind in their sails, it looked as if Perth- Bayswater could hold on for the win but Nedlands' wide running game eventually found space and put them 22-18 up.
Perth-Bayswater rallied and a penalty left them trailing by just one point. With the ball in hand and the clock ticking, Perth-Bayswater slowly progressed up the field either driving in the forwards or with the inside backs running the ball close. A high tackle, unsighted by the referee, might have given the penalty to win the game but in the end Nedlands were able to turn over possession and kick to touch as the clock ran down.
The game leaves Perth-Bayswater with three losses in a row to the top three teams and needing to beat Wanneroo at Pat O'Hara reserve next weekend to retain their top-four placing.
Perth Bayswater's 2nd Grade need a mathematical miracle to finish the season in the top four after losing out 28 - 5 to a strong table topping Nedlands side. The score line not reflecting how close the game was up until the final 15 minutes where the score blew out. With three games to go Baysie second grade will need to win each game with a bonus point and hope Kalamunda slip up in their remaining games.
In other games 3rds went down to Nedlands 34 - 0, Fifth grade conceded a try in the final minutes, losing 22 - 19. Continuing a bad day for results both colts teams ended up on the losing side, Perth Black losing 10 - 0 to Joondalup, Perth White downed 34 - 5 by Nedlands Gold.
Perth's Fantastic Women's team, the only Perth team to who didn't lose on Saturday due to a bye, are nine from nine for the season amassing 51 points to top the women's points table. They have a very impressive for and against with 320 points in the for column and only 20 in the against. Next week see them take on Wanneroo with the rest of the club at Pat O'Hara, so come on down and see all teams in action in what should be a good days rugby.
| ANOTHER CLOSE THRILLER LOST |
| 28 July 2007 |
It was another game of missed opportunities, another last minute loss and another photo finish that didn't go Perth-Bayswater's way when Palmyra came to Pat O'Hara Reserve today. Palmyra started strongly and assaulted Perth-Bayswater’s line with the help of several penalties, but the boys in black defended strongly and scoring was restricted to a sitter penalty goal after six minutes. Perth-Bayswater bounced back and pounded away in Palmyra’s half for ten minutes, their bulldozer scrum forcing a series of tightheads whenever they conceded a knock on, halfback Ruki Tipuna eventually kicking a penalty for hands in the ruck. Then, a minute later a midfield break by Tipuna sent flanker Cameron Stoneley on a 20 metre canter to score a try. The conversion missed but the home side took an 8-3 lead. Perth-Bayswater dominated possession but also made errors, and Paly escaped downfield to kick another penalty goal from in front. Palmyra stayed in the right end of the field and after 27 minutes, sliced through for a try out wide, which was converted and the visitors jumped ahead 13-8. But Perth-Bayswater kept plugging away and 35 minutes in, Tipuna landed a 30 metre penalty goal from in front to trail 13-11 at half time.
Palmyra applied sustained pressure to open the second spell and after seven minutes slotted a sitter penalty following a scrum offence. Again Perth-Bayswater bounced back and two minutes later Tipuna missed a chance to reply with a moderate penalty kick, but he made no mistake with another kick after 14 minutes following an offside penalty, to restore the margin at 16-14. Palmyra returned to the attack, helped by Perth-Bayswater errors but could not score and the game of fluctuating fortunes continued. Twenty minutes in, Tipuna landed a penalty shot from the 22 after a head high tackle and the home side took the lead for the second time, 17-16. But Palmyra steadied, making a competition of the scrum and winning possession to run back at Perth-Bayswater, reclaiming the lead, 19-17, from a penalty goal for offside with 15 minutes to play. Perth-Bayswater had a chance with a penalty on the sideline but opted for a lineout with eight minutes to go. The boys in black mauled ahead 15 metres and surged over the line but referee Peter Hilgendorf ruled the ball held up. Perth's attack turned to defence as errors allowed Palmyra to escape downfield and then kick ahead to threaten Perth's line with minutes on the clock. Just as Perth tried to mount a counter attack, a penalty for not releasing took the wind from their sails and Paly landed a sideline goal to take the winning score out to 22-17 in the final play of the day.
In other games, second grade thumped Kalamunda 38-0, third grade lost to Palmyra 32-22, fifth grade defeated Palmyra 31-14, Under 19 Black defeated Kalamunda 25-0, and Under 19 White dumped Southern Lions 39-0.
| PERTH RUE MISSED OPPORTUNITIES |
| 21 July 2007 |
Perth-Bayswater first grade was left regretting missed opportunities after a heart-breakingly close 18-16 loss to Kalamunda at Hartfield today. The second-ranked side in the competition dominated the first half to lead 15-0 at the break, but the men in black staged a big second half comeback and had the game in the bag when exciting young attacking flyhalf Ruki Tipuna slotted a penalty to lead 16-15 with minutes to play. But Perth-Bayswater failed to keep the Bulls under wraps in the dying stages and then conceded a penalty in front of the posts to have the game snatched from under them in almost the last play of the game. The loss drops Perth-Bayswater back to fourth place, with the grim prospect of facing both Nedlands and Palmyra in the next two weeks.
It was another one that got away, a tale of rushed options, basic errors and poor finishing; and controversy, with a disallowed try in the corner to fullback PJ Pittman. Kalamunda dominated territory early and kicked a penalty goal for diving over the ruck five minutes in. Perth counter-attacked but a long kick put Kalamunda down the right end and the Bulls forwards mauled over the line for a try. The sideline conversion missed but the Bulls went ahead 8-0. Perth-Bayswater had opportunities, thanks to the exciting attacking skills of Tipuna, and came close to scoring on one foray but that was the exception. The Bulls continued to dominate territory, driving over rucks to earn turnovers and repeatedly forcing the visitors back on the defence. Just before half time, Perth-Bayswater failed to find touch with a clearing kick and Kalamunda attacked wide. The ball came back in and despite going to ground, was scooped up for a try beside the posts. It was converted and the Bulls took a healthy 15-0 lead into the break.
Perth were all attack as the second spell opened and three minutes in Tipuna landed a penalty goal for offside. Two minutes later, Perth were hot on attack when a player was taken from behind without the ball, earning Kalamunda's wing ten minutes in the sin bin and Tipuna another successful penalty shot that possibly should have been a penalty try. Perth-Bayswater stayed on attack and Pittman went over in the corner and appeared to touch down before losing the ball but the referee ruled the ball knocked on. With their scrum wheeling Kalamunda at will and lock Brent Murphy stealing throws in the lineout, the men in black had a feast of possession but were unable to finish. Tipuna missed a moderate penalty chance after 25 minutes but the pressure was all one way and Kalamunda hung on grimly. The frustration started to tell on Perth-Bayswater and Kalamunda twice broke out to race down the sideline, and the Perth attack looked increasingly rushed and indecisive. Then from a tap penalty, captain and number eight Shannon Christie broke through the defence, handed the ball out, then took it back to score under the posts. Tipuna converted and at 15-13 the game was at fever pitch with ten minutes to play. Immediately Kalamunda lost their fullback for punching but Perth declined a kickable penalty for a tap, then wasted the opportunity. Kalamunda hit dire straits when another player was yellow carded for repeat infringements and the home side entered the closing phases with 13 men. Still on attack, Perth-Bayswater forced a penalty and Tipuna goaled the 40 metre kick for the visitors to hit the front 16-15. But with minutes to play, Perth-Bayswater were unable to lock the game up and allowed Kalamunda to escape, then conceded a penalty in front.
In other games, second grade defeated Kalamunda 16-12 but still trail them in fifth position on the table; third grade went down heavily to Arks 60-7, fifth grade suffered a rare defeat 7-3 (bearing in mind this is Arks' second grade), Under 19 Black won 25-0 over Palmyra to top the Under 19 Division One table -- good work Colts, and Under 19 White lost to Arks 5-0.
| PERTH SHUT THE GATE |
| 14 July 2007 |
Perth-Bayswater first grade opened a 12 point gap on Associates with a late 24-6, bonus point win in the Home Building Society competition at Pat O’Hara Reserve today. Associates dominated territory and possession early but poor passes and knock ons hampered their attack, and they missed a sitter penalty for hands in the ruck early. In reply, Perth lock Jock Stanley missed a long range penalty attempt after 22 minutes in one of the home side’s few forays into enemy territory. But when Soaks lost their center to the sin bin following a head high tackle, Perth started to make headway. Perth-Bayswater applied pressure and moved into Soaks' half, a series of penalties keeping them on attack until half back Curtis McLean cut through in close for a try from a penalty scrum in front of the posts. Stanley converted from in front and the home side claimed a 7-0 lead after 35 minutes. Soaks replied with a difficult penalty goal two minutes later and then Perth lost number 8 Shannon Christie to a yellow card after an innocuous-looking tackle. Soaks stayed on attack following the penalty and threatened the opposition line, hanging on against Perth's dominant scrum, but half time intervened and the home team’s 7-3 lead survived.
Soaks again opened strongly as the second spell began but Perth soon had them back pedalling in defence, and Perth's scrum wheels had Soaks' half back under constant pressure. When Associates had the ball, Perth's offensive tackling disrupted the visitors' attack. But Soaks drew close when they goaled a 40 metre penalty kick for offside after 13 minutes. Perth took play down the other end of the field but their back line was lacked precision with the ball in hand. Their forwards fared better and after 17 minutes prop Tua Patu plunged over in the corner after a pick and drive. The sideline conversion missed but Perth-Bayswater were back in the driver's seat at 12-6. Soaks attacked strongly but poor hands and destructive Perth tackling stopped them building continuity, while turnovers kept plenty of possession coming Perth's way. Perth drove back into Soaks territory and the backs finally lit up, a flat cut out pass to centre Shaun Tamehana setting up wing Damian Milich for a sideline run, where his perfectly timed centring kick at full speed bounced conveniently in goal for flanker Nathan Swayne to claim the try. Stanley converted from in front and the home side went ahead 19-6 with ten minutes to play. Perth kept the pressure on as the clock wound down and looked set to tough out the final ten minutes, but with minutes to play the forwards rushed the line and Stanley claimed the bonus point try. The conversion narrowly missed and Associates battled hard in the dying minutes, and came close to scoring, but the home side held firm until the final whistle.
In other games, second grade collapsed 62-12 against Soaks, thirds went down 29-0, but fifths had a thumping 57-0 win. In the Under 19s, Blackdefeated Soaks Gold 32-8 while White downed Soaks Green 15-13.
| RAIN FAILS TO DAMPEN PERTH'S EFFORTS |
| 27 June 2007 |
Perth-Bayswater maintained their position in the top four as their run of fine form continued with a 23-3 victory over Cottesloe. In a game played in just about all conditions possible, Perth's fearsome forward pack provided a solid platform for the backs to run in three tries.
Bayswater started the game with a quick try to Sean Tamehana in the first five minutes, after an unsuccessful conversion attempt the conditions got the better of the game. On one of the few occasions the Bayswater backs were able spin the ball wide, Mark Gaskin came up with the second try of the match, Perth going into the break 10-3 ahead. The second half continued where the first left off, Perth unable to put the game beyond doubt thanks to a series of errors and penalties. Only two penalty conversions put some breathing space on the scoreboard. The game was thrown into disarray when the ref and touch judge saw too much in a minor altercation, deciding to yellow card three players. One Cottesloe player and two from Perth - Jonathan Stanley, as usual in the thick of things, and Cale McCort mistakenly identified to be his partner in crime. In the ten minutes playing with only thirteen men Perth were able to keep Cottesloe scoreless, from a ruck inside their own 22 new boy Ruki Tipuna made a break and linked up with Nathan Myles who toed the ball ahead down the line, Ruki regathered the ball and raced ahead to score under the posts.
Although there were no further points scored in the game the drama wasn't over, McCort again being the victim of an over zealous touch judge who had his flag in play and recommending a yellow card, being his second Perth had to finish the game with 14 men. Since the weekend the video of the game has been watched and McCort has been cleared of any wrong doing, making him eligible for next week's clash with Wests- Subiaco, in an another all-important game.
Freezing Fifth Grade defeated Cottesloe 45-7 on a very cold, wet and windy day at Pat O'Hara Reserve on Saturday. With a cold front sweeping in from the south-west, the team showed that they were able to play in wet weather by running in seven tries (five converted by Barr Fridge) to the Seagulls' one converted try.
Cottesloe were short of players so some of their third grade backed up for another game while two of Perth's best forwards, Handsome Danny Vella and Cliff "Man boobs" Mataseni (whose headlights were on full due to the cold) in a show of sportsmanship donned the blue jumper of Cottesloe so they could start the game with fifteen players.
The Seagulls put up a lot of resistance and early in the match led 7-5 but in the end Perth finished strongly with tries to Dwain "the train" Barr (2) and Bubs, Bert, Barr Fridge, Chris, Ian or Dallas. Try of the day would go to Bert "Two Left Feet" Bothwell who was on hand to take an outside pass on the halfway line, then sprinted fifty meters while evading three or four tacklers to score.
Man of the Match was awarded to Handsome Danny Vella who took a good rucking "like a man" by his usual team mates who were seen sharpening their sprigs with an anlge grinder and painting the side of their boots with slogans like, "Handsome Hackers" and "Danny Doers". All the forwards told me after the match that any rucking of Danny was purely by accident as they didn't see him laying on the bottom of the ruck the six or seven times it happened.
In other results, Perth's second grade dropped points in the quest for fourth spot, only managing a draw against a lowly-placed Cottesloe team, the game ending in a 12-12 draw. Third grade's misfortune continued losing another close one 12-17. Our colts teams both came up trumps this weekend, Perth White winning 32-0 against South West, and Perth Black downing Cottesloe 29-5. The undefeated Women carried on their victorious ways beating third-placed Cottesloe 29-0.
| LOOK US UP "SCOTTY" |
| 27 June 2007 |
First grade assistant manager Steve McCormick is looking to contact a past player. So if you're out there, Gavin "Scotty" Murray, send an email to Jack Seymour and he'll forward your details on to Steve.
| UNI HIT BY BIG BLACK BULLDOZER |
| 16 June 2007 |
Perth-Bayswater first grade started strongly and locked Uni in their half early, but loose passes and poor choices hampered them. After 15 minutes the outside backs bombed a try in the corner but moments later centre Shaun Tamehana cut through to score beside the posts. Goal kicking number eight Jock Stanley converted the sitter. Perth stayed on attack and three minutes later the forwards rushed the corner for lock Cale McCort to claim the try, taking a 12-0 lead to the visitors. University took every opportunity to stay in the hunt and finally gained territory, allowing their fullback to kick a penalty for diving over the ruck after 25 minutes. Uni stayed on attack, helped by a string of penalties and Perth errors, until they scored from a scrum after 35 minutes and converted to put the students firmly back in the game at 12-10.
Perth-Bayswater opened the second spell as strongly as the first but struggled to gain enough width against Uni's rush defence. Instead, University kicked downfield and more Perth-Bayswater penalties in defence put the students in the box seat. But when Perth-Bayswater half back Curtis McLean was yellow carded after 8 minutes for commenting on the eprformance of the referee, Uni missed the simple penalty. Perth's huge scrum won them tightheads and their forwards mauled ahead successfully but the backs lacked precision. Uni repeatedly drove Perth downfield with booming punts and 20 minutes into the second spell Uni outflanked the defence down the sideline, following up to score out wide. The difficult conversion missed but Uni took the lead for the first time 15-12. But Perth-Bayswater charged back into action and five minutes later reserve fullback Nathan Swayne sliced through from a scrum to score under the bar. Stanley converted and Perth reclaimed the lead 19-15. Uni took it to Perth-Bayswater again but the black backs broke wide and fullback PJ Pittman ran 70 metres, breaking four tackles to dot down between the posts. Stanley did the honours and the visitors jumped ahead 26-15. With five minutes to play, lock Brent Murphy stole a Uni lineout and the black forwards mauled up. Flanker Gareth Cherrington peeled off and charged 15 metres for the try in the corner, and a 31-15 lead to Perth. But Uni were not giving up without a fight. They rushed downfield, Hardy danced through the defence and handed on to prop Aonrai Donovan for the try under the bar. Hardy drop-kicked the conversion for a last chance at 31-22. However, Perth-Bayswater muscled into Uni territory, demolished their scrum for a tighthead and flanker Cameron Stoneley plunged under the bar for the try. Stanley slotted the conversion and full time followed shortly after.
Perth-Bayswater John Taylor coach described the match of mixed fortunes as a ‘Jekyll and Hyde performance’.
“I thought we had an edge in the forwards at ruck and maul time, but we weren’t using it properly,” Taylor said.
“At half time I knew we had to go to the middle and then come down the blind. When we started doing that it split them wide open.”
Taylor agreed that the Perth-Bayswater scrum was a great weapon to have.
“It’s no secret, it’s called hard work,” Taylor said, “We do a lot of scrummaging and I think we’ve got a bit of improvement to go.”
The win positions the Morley club well going into the second half of the season.
“As I said during the week, we needed to be at six [wins] and three [losses],” Taylor said, “We are at six and three, I don’t think we’ve been there for a while, and it gives us a bit of confidence going into the second round.”
2nd Grade played 60 minutes of good solid rugby, at times sublime, to go 24 - 0 up with a bonus point in the bag. The final 20 min gave a Uni a sniff of hope, two tries on the back of poor fitness and a lack of discipline. Perth 2nd's dug deep to win 24 - 12.
Fabulous Fifth Grade flogged Curtin 34-0 at Curtin University on Saturday. With a good turnout of players, the team was well served with subs so were able to play fast attractive rugby with the knowledge that there were plenty of fresh legs on the sideline. To Curtin's credit they played well but they could not breach the wall of defence put up by Perth, and so it was the men in black who did all the scoring. Perth managed six tries in all with two conversions by Shane "Barr Fridge" who put in a fine display at half back. The first try of the day went to George "Toots" who despite being in his early fifties showed the students that he still has the legs and heart of a twenty year old. "Toots" turned back the clock and showed why he was considered one of the best first grade flankers around back in the 80's. The next try went to Chachi who was on hand to take a pass from Dallas "The Star" Godlieb, who chased up a kick that was spilt by his opposite number, kicked it towards the line before gathering it in and sending an inside pass to the Taranaki Flyer to score. The last try of the half went to "Bubs" who was put into space by to a lovely pass from the "Train" which allowed Bubs to outpace the cover to score in the corner.
The second half saw three more tries scored with Handsome Danny Vella making a return to the team with a barging run at the line which resulted in five points. The second try of the half went to Whitts, who touched down after getting another great pass from "The Train" to go over untouched by the defence (it was mentioned by a bearded prop on the sideline that Dwain "the Train" Barr, who coaches one of the club's U9 sides, should practise what he preaches about passing the ball out with some of his lads from the U9's watching their coach play. This could explain why all of a sudden he has learnt to pass). The final try of the day went to a rampaging Marlon Julian who has come out of retirement after a long absence from the club to make a welcome return to the black and white jumper.
In other games unlucky 3rds lost 14 - 15 against Curtin and Perth Colts black won 33 - 3 against Uni.
| UGLY WINS..... |
| 6 June 2007 |
....Better than beautiful losses." Coach JT was relieved to say after the game, summing up a disappointing day at Pat O'Hara reserve, Perth Bayswater only managing to beat a spirited Rocking outfit 8 - 6.
Perth with top four aspirations were hoping to come away with a bonus point victory today, but a first half performance which saw very few attacking forays into Rockingham territory, only remaining in touch thanks to several last ditch tackles. Notably Cameron Stonily chasing down a run away Rockingham back and tackling inside 5m, getting back to his feet to attempt to pilfer the ball forcing the isolated Rockingham player into conceding a penalty.
Vice captain and first five Nick Holley tried in vain to inspire the other players around him tackling anything in a purple shirt with gutso. However it wasn't to be, apart from a five minute spell at the end of the half Perth was lucky to go into the second half only 6 - 0 down. There was a fear on the sideline heading to the halftime huddle that Coach JT was going to unleash a furious tirade at the disapointing first half performance. It wasn't to be - the game plan was calmly reiterated from prior to the game.
The second half started better than the first but it was still Rockingham's game for the taking if only they had turned pressure into points. The turning point in the game for Perth was the introduction of lock Jonothan Stanley, within in minutes of being on the field he was involved in a scuffle then down the other end of the field he through long skip pass to prop Dane Taingahue who tucked the ball under his arm, brushed off a winger to score in the corner. An off day from the usually reliable boot of Matsushita Kaoru playing in his final game in Perth colours missing the conversion and a further three penalty attempts. 6 - 5 down and the Perth team kicked into gear with 20 minutes to go, missed penalties had the supporters beleiving this was going to be another one of those days.
Thanks to a Rockingham rush of blood a penalty was overturned to our favour, a change in kickers and still another missed penalty, still Perth attacked to no avail. The turning point was to be a high ball deep into into the Rockingham half with two minutes to go by Matsushita, chasing his own kick and nailing the opposition full back into the ground causing him to spill the ball. From this Perth mounted another attack and looked to have scored in the corner only for it to be judged there was a forward pass in the build up. Luckily for Perth, Rockingham were deemed to have been offside from an earlier ruck. Jonothan Stanley stepped up to slot the penalty to the ecstatic cheers on the sideline, Perth had scrapped through 8-6.
Perth 2nd grade put their best performance of the year winning 42 - 7. After being only 10 - 0 up at half time the flood gates opened with a further six tries being ran in. The score could have been much more had they had there been a goal kicker on the field with any sort of talent. One successful conversion from eight attempts and a penalty.
Fabulous Fifth Grade managed a 24 - 15 win over Mandurah Pirates at home on Saturday. With plenty of players available on the day the fifths fielded a strong first half combination which resulted in four tries before the break. Two of these tries went to Steve"Weed" Scholes who had a very strong game at fly half. "Weed" scored both try's from penatrating runs from rucks formed inside Mandurahs twenty two. The other try's scored were by Ian Dunn and the every green George "Toots". Mandurah managed a try just before half time to go to the break 24 - 5 down. Perth, with the bonus point already in the bag decided to give everyone a run and made wholesale changes at half time. Mandurah meanwhile decided to take off their fifth grade backline and replace it with their third grade backline who had earlier defeated our third grade. This produced a much more competitive second half and Mandurah managed two more tries to Perths zero. Perth in the end managed to hold out against the fast finishing Pirates to record a 24 - 15 win but will need to be careful in future not to think they have the game won when it's only half time.
For Perth Women it was nerves and flashback reminders of last year’s final at Perry Lakes that took the field on Saturday but positive attitudes and a defined purpose by those playing the game took Perth to a well deserved 26-0 victory over Cottesloe. Cottesloe fought hard all the way and a few times appeared to be on their way to breaking through the Perth backline defence; but due to sheer determination and willpower, Perth would not allow their defence to be broken leaving Cottesloe unable to score. The first try scored by Terina Whakatihi opened the floodgates to the Cottesloe try line, which was followed by tries to Jess Owen, Rachel Ngawaka, Stacey Kilmister who also converted her own try and two successful conversions to Puawai Hohepa.
| ROO DOGS PUT TO THE SWORD |
| 29 May 2007 |
Perth Bayswater jumped back into the top four on the back of a relentless display of powerful forward play combined with sublime back movement. Bayswater forwards dominated the days play contributing 6 of the 9 tries, the score ending up 65 - 3 over our northern suburbs neighbours Wanneroo.
It was pretty close to one way traffic from the kick off, Perth Bayswater did what it had failed to do in their last couple of games, that is come out with all guns blazing. Flanker Cameron Stonily making quick evasive runs from all over the paddock, Wanneroo seemingly unable to get a hold of him at times.
The fourth and last try of the half scored by lock Brent Murphy who after the game was heard to say "I even threw in a goose step", but it was hard to say as all the could be seen from the side line was a quick burst down the line with quick ball from a maul finishing off with mass of elbows and knees flying all over the place as he dove in to score to make the half time score 33 - 3.
If the first half was close to one way traffic, the second half actually was. With the bonus point already on the board Perth never took their foot off the pedal. Wanneroo might have come out confident, as in previous years they had turned around score lines similar to this and came out on top or at least made things nervous for the Perth side. However it wasn't to be this time around the game opened up in the second half Perth putting on another 30 points in the second half.
It was great to watch for the Perth Bayswater faithful as the ball was thrown around with flair not see for a long time, tries coming from all over field. Mike Murphy, not to be outdone by his younger brother, after the ball was ripped from a Wanneroo maul by first grade debutant Reece Jeffries, ran 40m to score.
Full back Matsushita Kaoru slotted over 8 out of 10 (2 penalties, 6 conversions) attempts and scored a try to end up with a personal tally of 29 points. The other try scorers on Saturday were Ben Todd, Tua Patu, Shaun Tamehana, 2 tries to Gareth Cherrington and also one try to player of the day Paddy Brooks.
Fabulous Fifth Grade snatched a hard fought 17 - 10 win over Joondalup at Iluka on Saturday. After losing it's previous two matches this was a must win game against the third placed team on the ladder and that's how the match progressed with both teams not giving an inch.
Perth was fielding close to it's best team for the first time in a few weeks and this showed with much better control. Despite this it was the Brothers that scored first when they used the wind at their backs to keep Perth pinned down in it's own half for the first twenty minutes before finally the defense cracked allowing them in for a converted try.
Perth managed to get out of their half after a charging run up field by Japie [ which was akin to a Victor Matfield charge according to Kelvin Westerway before he realized he had been drinking for three hours and retracted the statement].Joondalup infringed while stopping this incursion into their territory and Perth took advantage of the penalty for Shane "Barr Fridge" to claw back three points for a 7 - 3 halftime score.
The fifths came out full of confidence in the second half and with the wind at their backs they spent more time in the oppositions half. Joondalup struggled to control their kicks into the wind and when one of these kicks landed midfield just outside Perth's twenty two it was time for fullback Wayne"Bubs"Salter to pounce. Bubs kicked the ball behind the defense, chased it down, gathered it in and then evaded the desperate cover defense to score a wonderful individual try next to the posts. This was converted and Perth had it's nose in front 10 - 7.
The Brothers threw everything at Perth and in the end got a kickable penalty when Hector "Hit Man" George who had been defending well all day was pinged for a high tackle [ Hec reckoned he was going for the ball and I must admit that because the Joondalup player was that butt ugly it was hard to pick which was the ball and which was his head]. The resulting goal leveled the score at 10 all with ten minutes to play. Perth surged into Joondalup's territory piling on the pressure and would not be denied. Dermot [ or should he be called "Dermatitis" with all the missing skin of his face at the end of the match] charged into the twenty two before being cut down just short of the line. Bert and Hec were on hand to secure the ball which was moved quickly to the right for "The Fridge" to stroll over in the corner for a converted try which secured the win.
Perth Bayswater Women were made to work very hard for a 39 - 5 victory against Wanneroo. The strong Wanneroo scrum and line out contests made for a tough game; however Perth were able to keep up their constant defence to prevent Wanneroo from scoring in the first half and break through Wanneroo's robust defence to score two tries and one conversion. Perth lead at half time 17-0.
A physical battle in the second half weakened Wanneroo's defence further, allowing Perth to score two more tries. However Wanneroo finally broke through to score their one and only try of the game.
Try scorers for the day were Tiana Simmons (x2), Jodie Wielgomasz (x2), Stacey Kilmister, Puawai Hohepa and Sue Neho.
Congratulations to our Players of the Day: Best Back - Tiana Simmons, Best Forward Alex Pasitoa.
The Perth Bayswater Womens team is currently sitting at the top of the Womens Grade ladder and with a few new players on board this season our player numbers is very strong - a huge difference from last season where we played a team of minimum numbers for most games.
In other games Second Grade survived a erratically umpired game to win 12 - 6, the Colts had a bad weekend with both teams losing. Perth Black downed 17 - 10 by Joondalup, Perth White losing 34 - 7 to University.
| PERTH LOSE NAIL BITER |
| 23 May 2007 |
Perth-Bayswater were unable to hold on to a hard earned lead after two late tries saw Nedlands steal the match from under their nose to lose 23 - 17 at Pat O'Hara reserve.
Playing with the wind in the first half Nedlands appeared to be hungrier for the ball in the rucks and mauls, only the customary solid defence led by captain Shannon Christie kept Perth in the game. Unable to get through the wall of black and white Neddies were reduced to opting for penalties, already 6 - 0 down and the expectation of another shot on goal Nedlands capitalised on a momentary lapse in concentration to get a try from a quick tap with a minimum of resistance.
Although it was not all one way traffic with Perth applying some sustained pressure late in the half only a lack of composure allowing Nedlands to get away with not conceding a try.
Perth got on the scoreboard in the last play of the half Damien Millich capitalising on a Nedlands mistake to race away for a try, an unsuccessful conversion and the half time score was 11 - 5.
Four unanswered penalties to fullback Matsushita Kaoru in the 2nd half and Perth were looking good for a victory going into the last 15 minutes of the game. However it wasn't to be, Nedlands showed their class and came back at Perth getting the first of two tries from a driving maul off a lineout on the 5m line. The try went unconverted and there was still a sniff of victory.
The killer blow came with less than five minutes on the clock, Nedlands spun the ball wide creating an overlap for their no 8 to score easily crushing Perth's hope of a victory. Perth had a two minutes after the restart but couldn't get into the opposition half to steal the game back going down 23 - 17.
Coach JT said after the game "we showed we can take it to the top teams, we need to learn to develop a killer instinct and finish them off." He also reflected on where we are after 6 games having played all the top teams "We are 3 and 3, well within striking distance of the top 4, with 3 important must win games to come."
Player of the day today was captain Shannon Christie, playing through the pain barrier yet still tackling like a demon and a constant thorn in the opposition side.
Next week is a season making game away to Wanneroo at Kingsway Reserve. Needing to win this game and the following two to go into the halfway mark of the season with a realistic chance of making the top four.
Filthy Fifths lost their second game in a row when they went down to the "Nedland All Stars" 12 -5 at home. In a game that was punctuated with poor control the game never reached any great heights and it was Neddies who opened the scoring with a converted try. Perth replied with a great try by the forwards who drove the ever green George "Toots" over the line to bring the half time score to 7-5.
The game was pretty even with Dwain "the train" and Bert"two left feet" Bothwell playing very well but Perth just could not seem to spark any great attacking moves. Neddies had one chance to score in the second half and they took it when they crashed over to take a 12 -5 lead which Perth never replied to.
After the game the lads retired to the changing rooms for a beer and shower. The ever vigilant Bert spied some undies on the change room floor sporting a rather large skid mark. Bert yelled out to the owner of these jocks "The Fridge" who was in the shower at the time "Were you so scared when you came on that you shit yourself Fridge"? Turning and looking straight faced "The Fridge" replied "You should see how bad Neddies jocks look mate".
One last thing. We want to thank the Bulls for beating the Sharks in the Super 14 final. This means we don’t have to listen to Japie who is an avid Sharks fan go on about it for the next twelve months. God willing the Bok's don't win the world cup or the next four year would be unbearable.
In other games 2nd grade ran into a card happy referee with 3 players finding themselves in the bin, going down in the end 44 - 15. Thirsty 3rds missing out on another close one 17 - 12. Our dominating women 41 - 0 victors over University. It was tit for tat in the colts Perth White dumped 86 - 0 by Nedlands Blue, the favour returned by Perth Black dumping Nedlands Gold 56 - 0.
| HELP THE FORCE CELEBRATE |
| 23 May 2007 |
The Emirates Western Force Awards Night will be held on Tuesday 10 July in the Grand Ballroom at the Burswood Entertainment Complex.
Join the Emirates Western Force squad for a fun-filled evening to celebrate a successful 2007 season. Be entertained by the hilarious Vince Sorrenti, and dance the night away to the tunes of Perth party band 'Darren Reid and the Soul City Groove'.
Ticket price includes a sumptuous three course meal and drinks.
Time - 7.00pm for 7.30pm until midnight
Dress - Black tie
Cost - $185 p/p, $1480 per table of eight.
For more information, and to get a booking form, contact the RugbyWA Events team at events@rugbywa.com.au. or (08) 9387 0770.
| LET THE PRESIDENT SHOUT YOU A DRINK |
| 16 May 2007 |
This Saturday President Jack Seymour would like to welcome all past PBRUFC members, players, supporters to our home game against Nedlands. Come and catch up with people you may not have seen for some time, the guys you used to play with and have a beer whilst watching the current crop of Perth Bayswater players.
| PERTH PACK PUNISHES PALY |
| 12 May 2007 |
Perth-Bayswater First Grade's 22-6 ambush of a depleted Palmyra at Tompkins Park today illustrated how the 2007 Home Building Society competition is the most closely contested in recent years.
Perth-Bayswater opened with a series of quick phases and earned a penalty for hands in the ruck in the second minute of play. Japanese fullback Matsushita Kaoru converted from point blank range. Palmyra made inroads with quick phases but Perth-Bayswater turned over and flanker Shannon Christie sprinted 50 metres downfield. Desperate in defence, Paly conceded an offside penalty and Kaoru slotted the sitter for a 6-0 lead after 8 minutes. Perth-Bayswater had the better of territory but Palmyra made better use if the ball in attack, and went over in the corner after 16 minutes only to lose the ball before scoring. Palmyra increased its territory as the half progressed and the casual attitude of the Perth back line created unnecessary pressure for their own team. But Perth's awesome scrum caused havoc for the opposition forwards and Perth maintained pressure, Kaoru adding a third penalty for offside five minutes before half time. Palmyra had several chances in the dying minutes of the half but Perth took the 9-0 lead into the break.
Five minutes into the second half, Palmyra's half back kicked a penalty from in front but Perth-Bayswater rumbled back down the park and the forwards drove over in the corner for a try to reserve flanker Ben Todd. Kaoru missed the sideline conversion but Perth led 14-3. Penalties brought Palmyra back on attack and another for offside gave Paly their second easy goal as they kept in touch at 14-6 after 15 minutes. Perth-Bayswater counter-attacked but a malfunctioning lineout and Palmyra's intelligent use of the steady wind kept the home side out of danger. But when Perth's massive scrum forced a turnover after 25 minutes, the ball went wide and Kaoru cut into the back line to sprint 30 metres and score out wide. The conversion attempt went badly astray but with a 19-6 lead going into the final 15, Perth looked safe. Palmyra missed a moderate penalty chance with ten minutes on the clock but were making most of the play. However, Perth's forward dominance continually pushed Palmyra back into their half and Kaoru wrapped up the game with a penalty goal from 20 metres out in front.
Flat Fifths struggled to a 7 - 3 defeat against Palmyra at Melville on Saturday. An under manned team fronted for the game and were unable to breach Paly's line in the first half. With a strong tail wind Perth kept Paly contained in their own half for most of the first thirty minutes but could not finish of any attacking moves due to dropped balls and some strong defense. In the end all they could show for the first half was one sole penalty to Shane "Barr Fridge" to go to the break 3-0 up.
The second half was spent defending because of the strong wind and with Danny "Handsome" Vella having to leave the field to stop bleeding plus have his makeup fixed we lost one of our main defenders/ball winners. Perth held out for most of the second half but with about ten minutes to go two Paly forwards to their surprise found themselves popped out of a maul inside blacks twenty two. With just a single back in front of them they drew the man and scored under the posts for a converted try. Perth threw every thing at Paly and got themselves in a scoring position but "Copper" was stopped just short of the try line. A penalty to Paly helped them clear the ball to relieve the pressure for a win.
In other games, Seconds defeated Palmyra 27-21, Thirds won by the narrowest margin to Palmyra 15-14, and in the colts; Black defeated Palmyra 35-10 but White went down to Southern Lions 14-10.
| LACKLUSTRE PERTH BEATEN BY BULLS |
| 8 May 2007 |
Perth-Bayswater let another game past them this week, this time at home to the Kalamunda Bulls, going down 14 -9. From the onset Kalamunda took the game to Perth, the lads from Morley spending almost the entire first half defending. When Perth had the ball they never looked like threatening the Bulls' line. Often over-committing to the ruck, the forwards did not give the backs enough options to mount a meaningful attack.
Lessons from previous games were apparently not learnt with kicks not finding touch or not being taken, instead trying to run the ball from anywhere in the park only to turn the ball over. Kalamunda did not have it easy though, locks Brent Murphy and Jonathan Stanley disrupting and stealing the ball in a much improved lineout effort. Loose forward Ben Todd was a thorn in the Bulls' side making several strong runs and getting several turnovers at the ruck.
The first of Kalamuda's two tries came from a lineout on the five metre line, the Bulls shifting the ball in the lineout and driving through a gap, with three players crashing over the line almost uncontested. Soon after the second try of the game came from a rare missed tackle in the midfield inside the 22 and the Bulls' fullback glided through for another easily converted try.
At 14-0 down the gloves were off at half time with coach John Taylor unleashing a hairdryer of a serve to his players in an effort to inspire a better second half performance. It appeared to have some effect with Perth mounting several attacks and restricting the opposition from scoring.
Unfortunately Perth could not find a way across the try line, three successful penalties to Matsushita Kaorua brought us within touch of a victory. The final 15 minutes of the game had Perth camped in the opposition 22, but to no avail. Perth was unable to find the winning combination to get over the line, the game finishing 14-9. A bonus point for losing by less than seven was the only consolation.
This week's player of the day, receiving his 2nd $100 voucher for the Morley Ale House thanks to Murphy Limestone, was Gareth Cherington.
Although it is only four games into the season, Perth will be looking to end its losing streak next week against Palmyra. Palmyra are the only unbeaten side left in the competition and Perth will surely have to lift its game to come away with the points from Thompkins Park.
Flaming Lucky Fifth Grade scraped home 22-19 against a fast finishing Arks side at home on Saturday. The game went well in the first half with the team seemingly able to score with ease. Tries went to James, Dermott, Porky Sefton and Dallas "the star" Godieb while Barr Fridge (Shane Barr) popped over a conversion for a handy bonus point 22-0 lead.
Everything was going well with Cliff "Man Boobs" Mataseni proving a handful with his charging runs around the rucks, while new recruit Tim "The Gumboot Kid" was playing very well in the centers. Tim or "Tum" as he pronounces it, is just of the boat from good old NZ. We know this because he hasn't yet picked up that gumboots are not the standard footwear here in Perth, even though they do look very smart combined with a pair of stubbies and a Swannie. James, another new recruit, also played well at lock and with his headgear on looks a bit like Japie from a distance. The only way we can tell them apart is that James walks around the field faster than Japie, doesn't have a smoke at half time and the props advises that he pushes a bit in the scrums also (unlike Japie).
Arks hadn't read the script and started putting on their third grade players and soon scored a converted try to make it 22-7 at half time. They then put on more players from their top side in the second half and it became a tight battle up front, while a pacey back line was proving hard to catch. This resulted in two more tries with a conversion which had the game almost in reach for them, so Perth did what all good sides do when confronted with a crisis like this — they went for experience so they put on three fresh players with a combined age of 145 years, headed by Crocodile Bob Cooper. This slowed the game down just enough for the boys in black to hold on for a deserved victory.
The remaining games saw 2nd Grade lose 8-22, 3rd grade's promising start was turned around and they went down 14-33 to Arks. Perth Black continued its fine form, winning 42-5 against Kalamunda, while Perth White were unlucky, losing 5-10 to Arks.
| PERTH JUGGERNAUT HALTED |
| 1 May 2007 |
The highs from recent weeks came crashing down at Allen Park on Saturday. In a game that was there for the taking, Perth were beaten 26-17 by a well organised Associate team.
A couple of missing players and squad rotation saw the usually dominant Perth scrum reduced to ordinary levels, although there was a marked improvement in the lineout area. Soaks appeared to start the stronger of the two teams with most of play in the Perth half. Strong defence across the line from Perth saw Associates only able to score from a penalty. A rare foray into opposition territory and a well worked backline move had Mark Gaskin flying through a gap in the defence, passing to winger Chez Bloxham who further evaded the scrambling Soaks backs to score in the corner. A successful conversion attempt had Perth up 7-3.
A lack of discipline at the offside line and the breakdown gave Associates' Western Force recruit Scott Daruda three chances to get the upper hand over Perth. Only successful at two out of three attempts, also thanks to a superb covering ball and all tackle by Mike Murphy bundling a Soaks prop over the corner post had the score line at 9-7 in Associates favour going into half time.
Associates were the first try scorers of the second half, instead of the ball being sent into touch, a swing and a miss in the in goal area had the ball bobbling around on the ground for a Soaks player to claim one of the easiest five pointers he's ever likely to get.
The next 10 points of the game all go under Matsushita Kaorua's tally, a penalty followed by a converted try had Perth 17-16 in front going into the final fifteen minutes. Perth appeared to be holding their own, if not getting the upper hand, against their opponents when a penalty in a kickable position given to Perth was played on and advantage ruled to have be played only for the ball to be knocked on. After this Soaks rallied and put Perth under constant pressure spinning the ball from one side of the field to the other stretching the Perth defences which eventually paid off. A converted try to Soaks and the score was 23-17. The final points of the match went to Daruda again with another penalty, 26-17. In one of the last plays of the game Perth turned down a shot at goal to go for a try instead of getting the bonus point. Another week, another lesson learnt.
Player of the day for first grade and receiving the $100 meal voucher thanks to Murphy Limestone was number eight Gareth Cherington. With the ball in hand he constantly crossed the advantage line, he also turned defence into attack with some big hits and pilfering of the opposition ball.
Next week sees the visit to Pat O'Hara Reserve of Kalamunda Bulls who from all reports so far this season will be tough examination of our defence. Boasting a very strong forward pack and coming off the back of a tough win against Cottesloe they will be keen to extend their winning run to three games. But they will be up against a Perth side intent on getting back to the top of the ladder.
2nd Grade went down 30-18 this week for their first loss of the season as well. Coach Ray Jones said the key factor for today's loss was a lack of communication in defence, with Soaks points coming from out wide. Perth weren't outplayed on the day and were in the match until late on in the game. Player of the day for 2nd grade was Daniel Reardon. In other results 3rd grade were well beaten 38-0. The shining light for Perth on Saturday came from filthy fifths winning 46-7, and the impressive Perth Black colts side also victorious 33-17. Perth White, still finding their feet, went down to Nedlands Gold 3-15.
Fabulous Fifth Grade where back in action this weekend and showed the lads from Soaks no mercy in an eight try to one hiding. The final score was 46-7 with tries going to Copper, Weed, Train, Public, "The Star", Japie, Fridge and Cliffy "Man Boobs" Mataseni. Dwain "The Train" Barr, Shane "Public" Barr and Steve "Weed" Scholes also chipped in with a conversion each.
The Soaks boys looked to be competitive but could not overcome the experience of the Perth forward pack who dominated at the set pieces to provide a platform for the Perth backs to launch plays expertly directed by Rau, with new midfielder Ian Dunn showing plenty of penetration.
The only low of the day seemed to be when Chachi or "Chachi the Cheat" as the ref deemed him, was yellow carded for what only he could see. Problem is that Chachi is so quick that in this grade he gets called offside because the refs aren't used to someone being able to do what he does legally.
Good to see the return of some players this season with the likes of Weed, Alan "Tubs" Thomas, Paul "Porky" Sefton, Dave Koopu and Gary Ratene all making an appearance.
| PERTH UPSTAGE REIGNING PREMIERS |
| 23 April 2007 |
Reigning premiers West's Subiaco were humbled 27-11 at Pat O'Hara Reserve by a dominant Perth-Bayswater Premier side. West's coming off the back of a victory last week against flag contenders Nedlands must have been confident coming into the match but had no answer for the strength of our forwards and the hard hitting backs.
With a strong breeze a their backs in the first half the game was played the opposition half thanks to some impressive kicking from winger and Japanese import Matsushita "Mats" Kaoru. West's number 11 having a torrid time on his wing due to the quality of kicking and the vocal Perth supporters giving him some friendly advice at every opportunity.
The opening points of the game coming from the wonder boot of 'Mats' , who can claim a %100 kicking record for the day, from a penalty early in the game. Followed up soon after with a bullocking run from centre Shaun Tamehana crashing through three West's defenders for the first try of the match. No other points were added to the scoreboard in the first half with Perth failing to capitalise on the territory, impatience costing them several try scoring opportunities.
The second half continued where the first left off with Perth on the front foot, front row trio of Dane Taingahue, Glen Nolan and Dan Kahotea again providing a solid platform not allowing the West's Subiaco back any ball going forward from the scrums from which to base an attack. The second try for the match was scored by centre Michael Lee powering over the line from the back of a ruck after a quick tap from a penalty. The conversion putting some breathing space into the scoreline 17-6.
Two tries went begging out wide with the passes put behind the player with no one to beat. This seemed to spur the visitors on as they went about gaining some ascendancy, with them coming back in the final quarter scoring a try with 10 minutes to go. Perth rallied to score another try to put the game beyond doubt, this time first five Nick Holley charging down a kick on the opposition 5m line and pouncing on the loose ball to score under the posts.
Coach John Taylor was more than pleased with the result, however was still dissapointed with lineout and the missed opportunities which would have given us the all important bonus point. He would also like to see the guys remain more composed in phase play.
Loosehead prop Dan Kahotea played on through the pain barrier and put in a commanding performace around the ground to be named player of the day. Also recieving a $100 meal voucher at the Morley Ale House thanks to Murphy Limestone.
There will be no respite next week with Perth travelling to Allen Park to take on an Associate's side coming off the back of 63-14 victory.
In other games, 2nds fought back from two tries down to win 24 -18 while 3rds lost 14-36. Fifths scared West's Subiaco into submission having them withdraw earlier on the week. Our two colts again had varying fortunes with Perth Black beating West's 50-5 while Perth White went down to Associates Green 22-0
| PERTH TRIUMPHANT AT COTT |
| 16 April 2007 |
Perth-Bayswater's season got underway in an emphatic fashion on Saturday against Cottesloe with what ended up being a convincing 27-3 victory. The game started slowly with neither side having many scoring opportunities, with both sides only registering one penalty each to go into half time 3-3. Throughout the game with our forwards dominating up front territory and possession soon turned to points with lock Brent Murphy scoring the opening try early in the second half, successfully converted by Jock Stanley. Further pressure saw Lachlan McKay break the advantage line to score Perth's second. With the game firmly in control several opportunities to add more tries to the scoreboard were spurned, the ball being held up and later on knocked on over the line. The third and final try for the day was scored by replacement loosehead prop Tim McLoughlin being put over the line by inside centre Nick Holley. Tight head prop Dane Taingahue worked tirelessly throughout the game in the scrums and across the paddock to be named player of the day.
Coach JT Taylor was fairly happy with the result, he thought the defence from the outside backs was superb and the scrum was very solid. Of course he can still see plenty of room for improvement particularly with the lineouts.
Next week's game against reigning premiers Wests Subiaco will be a real challenge of how the team has come together, kick off is at 3.15pm at Perth-Bayswater's home ground, Pat O'Hara reserve.
In other results on the day 2nd grade held out for a tight 8-3 victory. 3rd grade got off to a disappointing start with a 49-5 loss. 5th grade were too strong coming up trumps with a 26-0. Our two colts sides had different fortunes Perth White winning 27-13 against South West. Perth Black losing to Cottesloe 16-5.
| THE WAIT IS OVER |
| 13 April 2007 |
Harvey Field Cottesloe is the place to be this Saturday afternoon starting at 12.20 for our 3rd Grade side on field 2, at the same time our Colts will be kicking off on field 1. Followed by 2nd Grade and the Filthy Fifths 1.40pm on fields 1 and 2 respectively. The all important Premier Grade kick off is at 3.15.
Announced this week Perth Bayswater, thanks to Phil Oliver of FleetWest - Fleet and Finance Solutions, is proud to announce that they will be sponsoring players for all our teams to take the field with PBF Insurance. The Paraplegic Benefit Fund enables you to receive $100,000 payment within weeks of sustaining a permanent spinal cord injury. Hopefully as a club we'll never need this, but it is always better to be safe than sorry.
| CONGRATULATIONS |
| 13 April 2007 |
Two new additions to the Perth Bayswater family, Blake Hill son of Jason and Julie born 8th February. Also Mikaere Tamehana son of Shaun and Megan born 28th March. Everyone at Perth Bayswater would like to congratulate and send our best wishes to the families.
| GENERAL MEETING |
| 30 March 2007 |
A General Meeting of the Perth Bayswater Rugby Union Football Club will be held on Thursday, 5 April 2007 at the Clubrooms, Pat O'Hara Reserve.
Time: 8:00 pm
The ordinary business to be transacted at the general meeting shall be:
The recommendation to alter the Club logo is a result of the renewed passion for the club being exhibited by a large percentage of the membership and demonstrated by player's commitment to the objectives of the Club on and off the field
| ALBANY TRIP |
| 29 March 2007 |
For the final hit out before the start of the season Perth Bayswater is travelling down to Albany to take on WA Country. The team will be leaving at 4.30pm Friday from the club rooms. Returning on Sunday I'm sure there will be a few sore heads and aching bodies.
| TRIAL GAME |
| 27 March 2007 |
Things aren't getting any easier for the coaches, but a few of the pieces appear to be falling into place. In another hard hitting game both sides contested evenly at every breakdown with few gaps out wide. It was a very good game overall with many positives to be taken from it. In a sign of things to come Lachlan Mackay pulled on the number 10 jersey in the second half.
| INTERCLUB TRIALS |
| 22 March 2007 |
Last Saturday's game was a huge success, with our newly assembled teams squaring off with a try a piece. Of course the score board was irrelavant but we did get to see some fluent and hard hitting rugby. We will be doing it all again this Saturday at the same time of 3pm for the Seniors and 1.30pm for the Colts.
| INTERCLUB TRIALS |
| 14 March 2007 |
If you are interested in playing senior or colts rugby this year for Perth Bayswater, apart from coming along to training Tuesday and Thursday, be at Pat O'Hara Reserve this Saturday th 17th March at 12.00 if you are a Colt and 1.30 for Seniors. Teams will be announced this Thursday and the games will be played in 4 x 20 min quarters. The second of the interclub trials will be held on the following Saturday 24th. Our third and final pre-season trial will be against WA Country in Albany on the following Saturday - details to come.
| PRE SEASON CAMP |
| 12 March 2007 |
This weekend we packed our bags and hit Ern Halliday Recreation Camp, The Western Force's exploits saw a few of us get there a bit later on Friday but we got there. A few quiet drinks Friday night put us in good stead for the weekend ahead. An early start Saturday morning with a team run to shake the cobwebs off and a big hearty breakfast prepared by Baz and Steve. Then it was time to hit the books. Led by head coach JT we went through our team policies, generic game plans in defence and offence. After lunch we hit the field again for another session before getting back to the hard slog of the classroom. The day was wrapped up with another feast prepared by Baz, a few jokes, some singing, some lies and of course a few beers.
| FIXTURES 2007 |
| 5 March 2007 |
This seasons fixtures have been finalised, please refer to the fixtures page for details.
| REGISTRATION NIGHT |
| 26 February 2007 |
Perth Bayswater's registration night will be held at the clubrooms this Friday the 2nd March. Commencing at 6.30 it will be a welcome to the players and members - old and new. The night will also include a Graduation Ceremony for the Perth Bayswater Rugby Academy. A light supper will be provided and Claytons Hour.
| PERTH BAYSWATER 7's |
| 28 January 2007 |
Perth Bayswater Rugby Club will be hosting a Sevens Tournament for both Seniors and Colts levels on Saturday 17 February at Morley Reserve. Games will commence early on Saturday afternoon, prize money will be on offer for winners and no entry fee required. For further details contact Steve Wharerau 0400 776 590.
| PRE SEASON 2007 |
| 18 January 2007 |
Pre Season Training is now underway at Perth Bayswater. From Tuesday 16th January be at Pat O'Hara Reserve, cnr of Walter Rd and Wellington St in Morley, for a 6.30pm sharp start. Training will be every Tuesday and Thursday up to and including the season ahead. For the next few Sundays, to help get our fitness levels up to scratch, there will be training sessions at Floreat Beach, be there ready to go at 10am.
| PRE SEASON 2007 |
| 3 January 2007 |
Firstly I'd like to wish everyone a Happy New Year
Hopefully you've all had a good off season and kept to your fitness plans and goals. Our first get together for the year will be on Sunday 14th January at 10am at the clubrooms. This session will enable us to discuss our plans for pre-season and the season ahead. It will also be a good chance to see what the Perth Bayswater Academy has been up to as they will be having a training session at the same time. Bring your runners, you may even be able to join in if you can keep up.
For the season ahead we will have a fe