The Boorowa Rovers unbeaten run came to an end last Sunday when they were narrowly beaten by the Crookwell Green Devils 22-20. Just a solitary conversion separated the two teams who scored four tries each in the ever cool conditions at Crookwell.
It was certainly a game Boorowa could have won, and they will be keen to reverse the result when the two teams clash again in a few weeks’ time.
It was the Devils that opened the scoring to lead 6-0 early before Boorowa posted two tries for a 10-6 scoreline at halftime.
Crookwell scored the first two tries of the second half to lead 16-10 but the Rovers weren’t about to lay down. They struck back to make it a 16-16 all scoreline with eleven minutes left.
With time running out, Crookwell scored their fourth try which was converted for a 22-16 lead. An infringement by Boorowa’s Cooper Cross led to Coop getting first crack at the showers after he was sin binned with time almost up.
Despite being down to 12 men, Boorowa scored late to bring the deficit back to 22-20 in the dying stages. With their number one goal kicker in the sheds, it was left to Matt Canellis to take the conversion attempt from wide out. Unfortunately, the kick was unsuccessful, and Crookwell got away with the 22-20 victory.
For Boorowa, it was a game they certainly could have won. Some crucial errors and a few tough calls didn’t help their cause. Despite the loss, there is plenty to like about the Rovers in 2025 and the lads will be keen to bounce back this weekend.
The most pleasing aspect for the Rovers is the performance of some of their young guns. Joe Prosper continues to impress in the backline each week, whilst James Farrell is giving opposition forward packs grief even though many are much more experienced. Josh Dean was sensational again scoring two tries and creating plenty of chances for his outside backs. Charlie Fogg is fast becoming a try scoring machine on the end of the talented Rovers backline.
The best and fairest points went Josh Dean 3, Matt Canellis 2 and Joe Prosper 1. Josh Dean picked up the Players Player award.
Crookwell 22 defeated Boorowa 20. Josh Dean 2, Charlie Fogg 2 tries, Coper Cross 2 Goals.
In other games last weekend, Snowy River Bears overcame a plucky Googong side 18-10, Bungendore returned to the winners list trouncing the UC Stars 78-6 and Binalong 20 fought of a gallant North Canberra 18. Harden had the bye.
This weekend in round 8, UC Stars are home to Googong in a game where both teams are seeking their first win for the season. North Canberra host Bungendore, Snowy River Bears host Crookwell and the match of the round will be the Harden Hawks hosting the Boorowa Rovers.
Saturday’s big clash between the Rovers and the Hawks promises to be a classic. These two teams have a great rivalry and always create some exciting footy. Both teams are on 8 points, just 1 point off the competition lead, and both teams have had just one loss so far this season.
Harden are coming off the bye, whilst the Rovers will be still smarting after the narrow loss to Crookwell last weekend. Harden always draw a big home crowd, but carloads of Rovers supporters will make the trip across the plains for this clash. If the Rovers can reduce their error rate and get a good share of the footy, they should win. They have ample strike power, but the Hawks will be wary of Boorowa fullback Austin Power who spent last season with the Hawks.
Boorowa to win by 6.
-Sandboy
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