After the forfeit by Gordon in the first week of finals followed by a week off for that “win”, the Norths fourth grade side came into this game without a run in three weeks. In the first half they played like a team back from holidays. They were hesitant at the breakdown and the attack just did not flow. Randwick started well and were pressing Norths with quick wide ball to both sides of the field.

After 10 minutes they made a break down the left side of the field and scored the opening try. The Norths defence tightened up after this and, while the attack still lacked fluidity, Norths were able to work their way into Randwick’s half on a number of occasions and gain penalties when Randwick infringed under pressure. Two penalties were converted into points by Scott Barnes and at half time Norths had their noses in front at 6 points to 5.

At the break Norths spoke about being more direct in attack. Half a minute into the second half was their first chance to put that into practice. Number 8, James FitzGerald got the ball on a short blind side on half way. Breaking out of a number of tackles he set off for the line. When met by the Randwick fullback in cover he was able to hold him off before jamming the ball over the line for Norths first try. A great conversion by Scott Barnes from the sideline pushed Norths to a 13-5 lead and you could see the Norths team lift as much as Randwick sag.

The next twenty minutes were a delight for the Norths supporters who had got to the ground early (and there were quite a few). Great long range tries to winger Nick Marshall (2) and centre James Nakkan put Norths out of sight. A final skipper’s effort to Keith Coassin put “the icing on the cake” in a great win.

Special mention must go to blindside flanker Tom Cameron who had a great game. Also worthy of note were the contributions of the evergreen members of the team.

It was also pleasing to see the replacements in the second half adding a lot to the team performance. The tempo seemed to go up with each replacement.

This was a very good effort, especially in the second half, and a good “warm-up” for the main event next Saturday. With a 9.15am kickoff, let us hope everyone has an early Friday night.