Saturday’s game against Innisfail was an exciting example of pre-season rugby played in front of a large crowd in less than optimum conditions. Players turned out in numbers and gave us almost two full teams. The efforts of the coaching and training staff were in evidence as the boys energetically warmed up for the game. Even a fashionably late arrival by the opposition couldn’t dampen the enthusiasm of the team and after a long pre-game period the whistle blew and we were away.
The game began at a great pace with Mariners going forward at every opportunity and hard running and defending all over the paddock. Our defence was challenged at every opportunity with some very interesting challenges over the ball by our opposition. The individual efforts of the players was reflected in the strong performance of the team as a whole.
While tries were scored and the points ended in our favour, the game was one of heart and this was the most important takeaway of the day. Innisfail defended their try line against an impressive charge from both forwards and backs for much of the game but the attitude, effort and fitness displayed held us in good stead throughout the day.
In the humidity and rain rugby can become a difficult game where energy is sapped and enthusiasm wanes, however this was not the case on Saturday and if the mental toughness, commitment to each other and willingness to give it our all continues we stand to look forward to a great season in 2017.
- Ray Rosendale
