On the charge: Pirates second rower Chris Geary takes on the defence.He is ably supported by John Talamavao.
THE Westport Club Port Macquarie Pirates stepped up a gear for their Legacy fundraising day and local derby against the Settlers Inn Hastings Valley Vikings on Saturday, and came away with a 28-5 win at Stuart Park.
Tim Platt scored two tries for the Pirates and Ryan Owen and John Talamavao once each on a day where rugby could be considered second to raising funds for a vital community organisation.
Chris Geary booted three conversions for the Pirates, and Sam McNeill one.
It was a typically tough affair for both sides, and the score remained nil-all for most of the first half, before Platt crossed the line in the 34th minute.
The Vikings hit back five minutes later through Lachie Tolman, but that was as good as it got for the visitors, as Platt,
Owen and Talamavao found the line in the second half.
Pirates coach Marc Minor was thrilled with the result.
“It was a great club day,” he said.
“I’m really proud of the team and the club.
“(It is) a good advert for rugby.”
He said the win was an example of the Pirates’ depth, with second graders stepping up well to fill the void left by some good players.
“Matt Mane’s probably the best centre in the zone, and he’s out with a broken leg,” he said.
“Lucas Wall’s one of the best hookers, he’s got a bulged disc in his back.
“The guys that come in have to step up.
“Our motto is ‘no excuses’.”
Vikings captain-coach David Tunstead said the Pirates deserved to win.
“Full credit to them,” he said.
Tunstead said he was disappointed by the scoreline, but not the effort of his players.
“Our front row was dominant, and I’m quite happy with our set pieces,” he said.
“The scoreline didn’t go our way, but the performance was there.
“The Pirates were all class today.
“I’d also like to thank them for the Legacy day.”