Wauchope and Port Macquarie have celebrated a successful return to rugby league with several wins at Port Macquarie Regional Stadium.
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Port Macquarie put some early points on the board against Sawtell in the under 17s on October 24. Rugby league games were previously postponed earlier this year due to COVID-19 restrictions.
The home team led the first quarter 6-4 and charged ahead to 24-4 by halftime. Sawtell fought back in the second half with some hard-hitting plays but were unable to catch up (30-16).
Sawtell captain Lillah Hoffman said their newly formed team struggled at times against Port Macquarie's representative players.
"It was a pretty good game and we did the best we could," she said.
"We are pretty much new team and to have that with such great defence is really good, we have a great coach as well."
Port Macquarie captain Madison Coghlan said some breakaway running and tries from Piper Stevens had inspired the team to lift.
"It was a pretty tough game, really hard fought. It was a bit tough but we made it through in the end," she said.
"Sawtell had a really solid defence but I guess we had quick speed, quick roll of the ball which is fine.
"Having those breakaway tries brings our team up, lifts our spirits and gets us back into the game more."
Wauchope led a 52-10 thumping of Wingham in the opens division. Wingham were pressed against the tryline constantly in the first quarter, despite a lack of subs on the bench for Wauchope.
Wauchope captain Larissa Ward said the team was just happy to be on the pitch.
"Very happy with the win. It's good to get rugby league up and running, we're stoked that the season is back," she said.
"It's been a long break which makes the first game tough but it's good to be back."
Wingham captain Chelsea Green said her team enjoyed the match and run on the pitch despite the scoreline.
"I thought it was a very good first game. The other team had a really good game and Larissa had the game of her life," she said.
"Our team had our first game together after playing in many different clubs. It was good to get a run together and we definitely improved throughout the game.
"The break has been very hard on fitness, but it's good to be back."
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