The Casino RSM Bulls look to have realized their potential with a very solid 26 -15 win over the Grafton Redmen at the weekend.
For the majority of the match the Bulls controlled posession with a structured forward attack and a backline that was ruthless with the space that this created.
The early season wobbles that have plagued the first grade team were nowhere to be seen as Casino utilized their game plan with some very positive results.
Although Grafton struck first with a try, Casino showed firm resolve, striking back with 2 tries to make the score 12-10 at half time. Unsatisfied with this scoreline, the Bulls came out firing in the second half, scoring from their first possession after Luke Serone and Jarrad Cameron engineered a blindside break that opened up the field for the try.
Grafton crossed again late in the second half to make the score 19-15, however Casino’s resolute defence ensured that the Redmen would not cross the line again. The Bulls pack put together a series of phases inside the opposition 22 that led to an overlap for the Casino attack, allowing fullback Adam Gould to score his second try.
This victory was impressive for the Bulls in that they executed their gameplan effectively and maintained their composure for the majority of the contest. The reliable Mick Sherry claimed the 3 points in a flawless performance with Tim Gould taking 2 points and Luke Serone 1. 2 try hero Adam Gould was player’s player.
Reserve Grade took the points from Grafton in their first win of the season with a gritty 13-12 victory. This was a hard-earned victory for the Reservists who, with many players injured or unavailable had to turn to the under 19 side for players in order to field a team. Tough defence and a good kicking game allowed Casino to win what was an arm-wrestle of a match. Points on the day went to: Brad Wenzel 3, Tim Cameron 2, and 1 point went to all of the players from he Under 19 side who backed up for the Reserve Grade side.
The under 19’s, who were also depleted due to players away on representative duties, went down 28 – 8. The young Bulls tried hard but with few reserves fatigue was their biggest obstacle and Grafton scored some late tries to put the game beyond doubt.
The Casino Bulls will face defending premiers Lennox Head in a special Beef Week night fixture next Saturday with 1st grade kicking off at 6pm after the Reserve and Under 19 matches. Casino will face their biggest test of the season and hope to see all of the Bulls fans turn out in force to cheer the boys home.
