Roosters Rule!

The Burdekin Roosters A Grade team put together a complete performance, much to the delight of coach Steve Lansley. Reflecting on his team’s 14-12 victory over Herbert River at Rugby Park last Saturday night.

"We have been trying for some time to put things together for eighty minutes, and it was nice for the boys to see it finally happen,” said Lansley.

The tightly contested match featured strong defence and smart attacking play from both sides. The Roosters and Herbert River each scored two tries, with all conversions successful. It was a penalty kick with three minutes remaining, courtesy of captain Joel Mason, that secured the Roosters' win.

The defensive effort from both teams was notable, with big hits and crucial ankle tackles throughout the game. Lansley credited his forwards for laying the foundation, allowing the smaller players to capitalize on opportunities.

He praised Herbert River for their typical style of hard running, strong support play, and minimal mistakes.

"I told the boys they make few errors, and when they do, we had to capitalize... to their credit, they did," Lansley added.

Although it was difficult for the coach to single out standout players, he highlighted the performances of Henry Teuteu and Chris Gale in the forward pack, along with Lachlan Shepherd, who had a stellar game. Lansley also commended Roto Ravisore as one of the better backs and noted Joel Mason's vocal leadership from fullback. James Munro, returning from injury, was outstanding despite being denied a try that Lansley believed should have counted.

Burdekin Roosters A Grade:
- Tries: Tate Brombal, Ratu Kikau
- Goals: Joel Mason (3/3)

Other A-Grade Results:
- Souths defeated Brothers 30-14
- Charters Towers defeated Centrals 38-4
- Western Lions defeated Norths 64-10

Roosters Reserve Grade coach Chris Perry expressed frustration after his team let a strong start slip away.

"We led 12-0 and looked like going away with it before the calls started going the way of the River," Perry said.

Experienced Herbert River halfback Mitch Seri led his team with two tries, and Perry expressed disbelief at the officiating.

"How one team can get six 'six again' calls go against them, and the other team gets none, is beyond belief,” said Perry.

He noted that the lopsided penalty count caused frustration, leading to mistakes that Herbert River capitalized on.

Despite leading 12-6 at halftime, the Roosters ultimately fell 34-22. Perry praised Caleb Noah for scoring two tries and Brody Ferguson for his efforts in the forwards. The team is now focused on preparing for their knockout semi-final against Centrals this Sunday.

Burdekin Reserves:
- Tries: Caleb Noah (2), Sem Tom, Dominic Arrate
- Goals: Dominic Arrate (3)

**Other Reserve Grade Results:**
- Souths defeated Brothers 30-14
- Centrals defeated Charters Towers 58-22
- Norths defeated Western Lions 34-14
- Bowen had a bye

The Burdekin Hens received a forfeit from Herbert River and will face Brothers in the knockout semi-final this Sunday. In other ladies’ news, the club has announced Tegan Johnson will represent the Roosters in the upcoming annual Harvest Festival.

Other Ladies' Results:
- Centrals defeated Charters Towers 34-4
- Western Lions defeated Norths 72-0

Contributed with thanks to Brian Carnes.

Caleb Noah was praised for scoring two tries on Saturday in the Reserves’ clash against Herbert River.

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