The Macksville Sea Eagles suffered a reversal of fortunes on Sunday at Bellingen Park when they were defeated 30-26 in the dying moments of their rugby league trial match with the Bellinger Valley Magpies.
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After their last gasp victory over Nambucca Heads the previous week, the Eagles went into this game with some confidence, but an early try to the Magpies dented this somewhat.
The first half saw the Eagles dominate, however, four tries to two, with Jesse McEwen, Mike Flanders, Ricky Morris and Damien Carriage all scoring tries and Morris contributing two goals.
The second half saw the Fijian contingent from Bellingen begin to dominate, the hard running forwards making good inroads into the Eagles’ defence.
While the Bellingen forwards dominated, errors by the Macksville team saw them camped at the wrong end of the ground for most of the half. The one occasion the Eagles got into the opposing half saw Rehannen French cross for a try that Morris converted.
The try saw the Eagles lead 26-24, but with the bell about to sound, a final assault by the Magpies saw them take out the game.
The Eagles’ reserves again looked good in running out 28-16 winners.
This squad shows the signs of being a force in the Group 2 competition, combining youth and experience in an exciting blend which promises entertaining football for their supporters over the season.
The Under 18s clash saw the Eagles run out 26-nil victors in a shortened match.
While their opponents had the bare 13 players, this was a strong display by the Junior Eagles after their close encounter the week before.
What the Eagles’ juniors lack in size they more than make up for in skill, pace and determination, and coach Dean Hillery looks to have them functioning well.
The Eagles will take a break over the coming weekend before the first round of the Tooheys Blue Group 2 Competition kicks off on Sunday, April 12 when the Eagles will host the Coffs Harbour Comets in three grades.
