The latest chapter in the proud history of rugby league at Red Bend College was written on Wednesday, with the Forbes powerhouse claiming the Country Rugby League (CRL) under 15s Country Cup at Apex Oval.
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Red Bend has won countless titles in the past and has played a role in developing a number of NRL players, and now the 2018 outfit sits along those stellar sides after a tough, come-from-behind win over Gosford’s St Edward’s College.
The Gosford school shot out of the blocks and led 10-0 within five minutes in the state final and Red Bend was its own worst enemy due to a string of penalties and errors.
The Forbes school trailed 14-6 at the break but a positive half-time talk from coach Pat Cleal and stellar performances from captain Finnley Neilsen and five-eighth Matt Noakes in the second stanza saw Red Bend go on to win 28-14.
“It was awesome to see them work hard for each other and dig deep to get the win,” Cleal said post-game.
“We’re stoked and there’s some good little footy players out there.
“We said at half-time we were getting out-enthused and the boys rose to the challenge and stepped up … they showed that bit of character.”
Noakes, who’s running game was a feature throughout the win, scored his side’s first try after St Edward’s live-wire centre Cameron Steer and winger Aaron Antonio had crossed early on.
Red Bend had lifted in front of a healthy crowd at Apex Oval but Steer’s second set-up an eight-point buffer at the break.
Neilsen came into his own in the second half and the hard-running lock crashed over after a quick play-the-ball early in the second half and his second try shortly after had his side within two.
The Forbes side had all the momentum and got in front for the first time when Noakes ran and jinked his way across and the five-eighth scored right on the bell after a fortuitous bounce from a grubber to seal the victory.
“We do rely on those key players,” Cleal said.
“Finnley, Matty Noakes, Kyle (Mawhinney) our seven and Darcy Leadbitter at the back.
“They really did deliver today and that was great. I couldn't’ be happier for them.
“They’ve worked really hard and played some really good footy across the tournament. It’s great to get the award.”
The title win also came in Cleal’s first season in charge of the side.
“It’s awesome to get the win. We love our rugby league at Red Bend and it’s great to keep that history going,” he said.
“I’m stoked and so happy for the boys.”
Nick Guthrie
I started working at the Daily Liberal in 2013 and now hold the position of senior journalist. I cover all that's happening in sport in Dubbo and the wider western area and have a passion for doing so. If you've got a story that needs telling, reach out.
I started working at the Daily Liberal in 2013 and now hold the position of senior journalist. I cover all that's happening in sport in Dubbo and the wider western area and have a passion for doing so. If you've got a story that needs telling, reach out.
