NSW/ACT retain edge over determined Qld

The NSW/ACT Rams state sides have enjoyed a week to remember, with both the Under 18s and Under 16s sides celebrating victories over their Queensland counterparts in recent times.

While the Under 18s Rams took out the National Championships title over the Sunshine State in Melbourne last week, the Under 16 boys completed the quinella following their nine-point triumph over Queensland on the Gold Coast on Wednesday.

The first quarter was played at close quarters, with both sides struggling to gain any sort of edge over their opponent.

The contest remained tight throughout the opening term, with both sides converting only twice in the opening stanza of the match.

The second term was played in a more open manner, with both sides managing to move the ball forward through good ball use and decision-making.

The second quarter saw six goals scored; however at the main break, the sides were once again, inseparable on the scoreboard.

It was clear that the side that used the ball well and made the better decisions was going to prove tough to beat on the day, with the teams so evenly matched personnel-wise.

It was NSW/ACT who came out firing in the third term, managing three majors for themselves while holding Queensland to the solitary goal.

The Rams 11-point lead at the final change saw them fire out of the blocks in the last term, playing with dash and dare across the midfield and half forward line.

However, Queensland lifted a gear, managing to cut the margin to just three points, and looking the more likely team with ball in hand.

The maroon boys let themselves down entering their forward 50, bombing the ball into their forward-line, and playing into the hands of the NSW/ACT defence.

It was the Rams defence that held strong, managing a goal before the final siren to run out nine-point victors.

Sydney Hills’ Eagles Lyndon Hupfeld impressed for the Rams, bagging to majors for himself along with Sam Fisher and Charlie Morgan, who also bagged a couple of goals for themselves.

Zachary Sproule ran hard all day, and made great decisions with ball in hand, while Will Setterfield, who has been touted as a player to watch throughout these Championships was once again impressive for the Rams.

NSW/ACT take on Tasmania in their final match of the Championships, this Saturday at Metricon Stadium.

Match Details
Queensland 2.1 5.2 6.4  7.8 (50)
NSW/ACT 2.1 5.2 8.3  9.5 (59)