The Condobolin Rams may have had one of the longer trips in the Woodbridge Cup finals this weekend, but that didn't stop them from coming out with hunger and purpose in Saturday's elimination semi-final, beating the Canowindra Tigers 32-10.
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While the Tigers made their presence felt early with a strong start, captain-coach Alicia Earsman said that the Rams were simply too good.
"We started pretty well I think, but honestly, Condo, they've really improved in the last two times we played them, and they kind of took us by surprise a bit," Earsman said.
"Defence-wise we made one break the whole game and they were on us really, really quick... and then their attack, they did a lot of kicks mid-field, they had three tries from chip and chase [and] they kind of killed us there up the guts."
Nevertheless, despite the loss, Earsman was keen to reflect on what her young team achieved throughout the year.
"Everyone just improved so much," she said.
"We know that we can match it with them better sides... As long as we keep the same squad together and keep improving, we'll be bigger and better next year."
One of the things that Earsman is keen to overhaul for next year is the team's defensive set-up.
"We're probably going to change up our defence, maybe play a little bit more compressed in the middle, just to tighten up the middle and hopefully that will make it work," she said.
Earsman added that while former juniors Darcy Merchant and Claire Wright have impacted while doubling up their 16s duties, while the likes of Jess Perry have been consistently solid, the club is building a core of players that can shine on any given week.
"Everyone's been stepping up to take their role and make the most of it, so that's good."
Earsman, was keen to thank the club's committee for their efforts, while also making specific mention of Tanisha Whatman's behind the scenes work, as well as Mick Vitnell's assistance in taking training sessions throughout the year, with Earsman describing him as "absolutely key".
She also added she was keen to take on playing-coach role again next year, seeing plenty of room for growth in the side if it sticks together.
"It's worked well this year, and if we can keep our squad together then I'd be happy to do it again next year."
- CONDOBOLIN RAMS 32 (Nickolle Kirby 2, Alynta McKellar, Nickita Kirby, Danielle Thompson; Nickita Kirby 4 goals) def CANOWINDRA TIGERS 10 (Kelly Price, Sami Hartwell tries; Hayley White goal)
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