SNAPPERS’ first grade men asserted their authority in the Mid North Coast rugby competition with a commanding 50-10 away win over the Hastings Valley Vikings last Saturday in Round 13 action.
The Snappers struck early with a try to Fletcher Partlin within minutes of the kickoff.
The Vikings rallied with a try of their own soon after but it was all one-way traffic from there.
First-half tries to Jonah Colburn and Shony Okazaki plus a first-half double to Freddy Ralulu put the game out of reach by the drinks break.
The Snappers showed patience in attack and took their opportunities when they presented.
Snappers dominated at the set piece and Colburn and Charlie Oates controlled territory with their strong kicking games.
Taj Butcher scored mid-way through the second half. Jimmy Munro and Jack Harrison crossed for their own five-pointers in the last 10 minutes to seal the deal.
First grade will have a bye this weekend before facing Port Pirates in Port Macquarie on 22 August.
A win to the Snappers will see them finish as minor premiers and hosts of the major semi-final on 29 August.
Best for first grade were Jonah Colburn, Angus Cheetham, Morgan French and Brad Thorn.
Snappers reserve grade remains undefeated after their 34-29 victory over the Vikings.
Defence was optional in this seesawing affair.
Vikings rallied late but couldn’t snatch the win in the dying minutes.
The Italian Stallion Davide Gargioli continued his impressive season with a double.
Gargioli led from the front, as all good skippers do.
Best for the Reserves were Teina Tuakura-Campbell, Davide Gargioli, Sam Locke Kelly and Max Deist.
In junior Whipper Snapper news, the under-11s and under-12s will play in their grand final tonight at the C.ex International Stadium following their impressive semifinal wins last Friday night.
Snappers Reserves and 1st Grade Women will take on the Marlins in the local derby this Saturday at Bayrange Rugby Park.
All the action starts at 9.50am with the under-14 girls.
By James DE DASSEL
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