The Boorowa Goldies kicked off their 2025 Central West rugby season with an impressive 31-12 away win against the returning Condobolin Rams on the weekend. It marked Condobolin’s first match back in the competition after a three-year absence, but it was the Goldies who made the most of the occasion.
Despite a shaky start that included an early sin-bin, Boorowa found their rhythm quickly. After settling into the match, the Goldies struck twice to take an early lead, however, the Rams gave their home crowd something to cheer about just before the break, capitalising on an intercept to run 80 metres and score just before halftime.
Coach Mark Poplin praised his side’s composure in the second half. “We came out strong after the break and put another two converted tries on them,” he said. “The forward pack was dominant all game, with multiple pushover scrums. It was a strong team performance, and the boys really stood up when it counted.”
The Goldies’ physical presence up front set the tone, maintaining control throughout the second half and shutting down any hope of a Rams comeback. The final scoreline of 31-12 reflected Boorowa’s authority in both attack and defence.
Looking back on last season, Poplin believes the group has unfinished business. “We lost the grand final to the Young Yabbies last year. They say you’ve got to lose one to win one hopefully that was ours. We’re aiming to go one better this time.”
The coach also acknowledged the shock result from the Yabbies’ opening match this year.
“Seeing Young lose their first game caught a few people off guard. They’ve been so dominant for years, so for them to lose to a side that hasn’t played finals in a while raised eyebrows.”
The Goldies now look ahead to their first home match of the season, taking on Grenfell on the Saturday after Anzac Day. That clash will be followed by a highly anticipated Friday night showdown against the Yabbies, coinciding with Boorowa’s Picnic Races weekend.
With a strong start and a point to prove, the Goldies are shaping up to be serious contenders in 2025.
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