THE good form of The Westport Club sponsored Port Macquarie Pirates again flowed through the three grades last weekend, with strong wins in the reserve grade and under-18 fixtures to complement the first grade victory.
The reserve grade team showed its depth to record a win, even though it had supplied players to cover first grade injuries and absences.
The outstanding form of Aaron Robinson and Peter Sales had the Kempsey Cannonballs team on the defensive throughout the reserve grade fixture which contributed to the Pirates 32-7 victory.
Peter Sales was rewarded with two tries and the boot of Robinson added two conversions and a penalty goal.
The power of the reserve grade pack continues to dominate opponents.
Joel Riddle keeps building on his good form and is causing concern to opposing teams with his bullocking runs.
Matt Orr again showed he is capable of handling a first grade berth with his strong front row display.
The reserve grade team also saw the return of Daniel Byrnes to the Pirates from Brisbane, after a two-year absence.
Byrnes’ speed and unpredictability created gaps for the Pirates attack.
The under-18s came out victors in a spiteful match against the Kempsey Cannonballs.
Throughout the match the young Pirates remained focused on what was required on the playing field.
This focus allowed the home team to come out
victors 34-7 in a match where the dominance of the Pirates pack frustrated their northern opponents.
The addition of Fraser Yule to the Pirates team has added another hard
working forward whose ability in feeding the lineout is providing good quality ball to the Pirates lineout jumpers.
Tom Blanch consistently adds power to the Pirates forward play, again earning him points in the best and fairest awards.
Kyle Gavrily at breakaway showed the form that earns him awards in most matches he plays.
It was an important victory for the young Pirates as they had been previously beaten by the Cannonballs, who lead the way at the top of the ladder.
The Pirates needed to show they had the ability, and most importantly, the self control, to match Kempsey and remain focused on attaining a
victory.