In the Country Rugby League northern selection trials, the Hastings girls were slow out of the blocks as nerves played a role in their 20-4 loss to Group 4 in their first match.

They were much better against Group 19 where they cruised to a 32-12 win with fullback Nakita Binge crossing for a hat-trick.

Five-eighth Larissa Ward scored two of her own in a display that caught the eye of representative selectors along with front-rower Tayla Predebon who also crossed the stripe.

Coach Glenn Bampton said after the slow start the Hastings girls warmed into their task on a day where temperatures nudged 40 degrees.

“They actually won the second half of the first game,” he said.

“What was a challenge for them at the start was the repeated physical efforts tackle after tackle which took its toll.

“When we got the ball the butter fingers came out a little bit.”

Bampton said the attitude of the team contributed to an enjoyable day.

“What I learnt from the whole weekend is that women are easier to work with than men because their attitude was top notch,” he said.

“Everyone contributed and there were a few of the girls that were surprise packets who were a little bit quiet to start with.”

Port City representatives Binge and Ward along with Jazzy Wilbow, Dianne Lawrence and Ash Kemp all contributed at various stages.

“Those Breakers girls all bounced off each other and their combinations helped us when we needed something,” Bampton said.

The CRL are believed to have extended a further invitation to the girls to play in the Newcastle competition this season where selectors will again cast their eye over prospective players.

“It’s great to see that an open invitation like that has been extended,” Bampton said.

“I can’t remember that ever happening before.”

The Hastings League has proposed a 13-a-side competition for the upcoming season.

Any senior ladies (17 years plus) wishing to play please contact Belinda Andersen on 0403 532544 or email belindaandersen1978@gmail.com.