The Boorowa Goldies are one win away from back-to-back South West Fuels Cup premierships after a hard-fought victory over arch-rivals the Harden Red Devils in the major semi-final at Boorowa Showground on Saturday, 8 August, defeating the Devils 22-14.
The reigning champions, who claimed the minor premiership the previous weekend, hosted the Red Devils in a fixture that had been building all season. The two sides have developed one of the competition’s fiercest yet most respectful rivalries in recent years, with last year’s grand final also decided in Boorowa’s favour.
In front of a strong local crowd, the Goldies produced a determined performance to claim the points and, with them, a direct path to the grand final. The result means Boorowa will host the decider, while Harden must now navigate the preliminary final route if they are to force a rematch.
The match lived up to its billing as a physical, high-stakes local derby. Both packs went at each other from the opening whistle, with the Goldies’ forward effort and ability to capitalise on opportunities proving decisive. The home side’s clinical finishing and solid defence in key moments ultimately separated the teams.
The win continues Boorowa’s strong run as they chase a third consecutive minor premiership and a second straight title. Club supporters celebrated long into the evening, buoyed by the knowledge that home-ground advantage in the grand final is now secured.
For Harden, the defeat is a setback but far from the end of their season. The Red Devils have been among the competition’s strongest sides throughout 2026 and will head into the preliminary final with every chance of earning another shot at the Goldies.
The Devils will take on the Cootamundra Tri Colours at Robert’s Park, Harden-Murrumburrah this Saturday the 15th August at 3:15pm to find out who will be victorious and take on the Goldies in the Grand Final on the 22nd August at the Boorowa Rugby Club.
In the lead-up to the big day, Boorowa Rugby Club has called on the community to get behind the side with their “Paint the Town Gold” promotion. Via the club’s Facebook page, supporters can deck out homes, businesses, cars and themselves in gold to create a sea of colour around the Showground and right through town.
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