WHITES TO HOST LADDER LEADERS
The Queanbeyan Whites will host the ladder leading Vikings this Saturday in what is sure to be an epic clash given recent outings have seen the Sam French side slowly improving and last week downing Royals to the tune of 22-5 to regain the Jack Maguire Cup. Whilst not the prettiest of games, the Whites dominated most aspects of the clash and gave the visitors very little opportunity. Never fear, the Whites know that Royals were down on numbers with injuries aplenty but will take the bonus point win knowing how close the fight for playoff spots are and heating up. To make the day even better for the locals, Whites won all 5 men’s grade and the Women’s team just going down to deny a rare 6 game clean sweep of the day against the Canberra powerhouse.
Taking on the Vikings this week will be another challenge given in the previous 2 outings, Vikings have come out on top. No doubt the Vikings will have a spring in the step with no less than 4 players appearing for Wallabies in Wednesday’s opening Test against the French and including 3 making test debuts (Darcy Swain, Len Ikitau and Lachlan Lonergan) all off the bench whilst Noah Lolesio makes his 3rd test start in the playmaker role. Never mind those absences, the Vikings still have plenty of depth at their disposal and aren’t running top of the ladder by chance. In recent weeks, the Whites forwards have been laying a wonderful platform for the backs and will be hopeful of the same this week. The back row of Jed Stuart, Justin Sikimeti and skipper Matt Taylor have been working wonderfully as a unit and combining with a tough and rugged front 5. Mitchell Douch is proving his undeniable talent and linking perfectly with Liam Richman in the halves and feeding a young and exciting backline with the likes of Jimenez, Tupou, Alifipo, Jackson Stuart and Rademaker all enjoying some time and space with the ball in hand.
The 4th grade clash against Unis has been moved from the scheduled Saturday kick-off to now be played under lights at Taylor Park on Thursday night and 3rd grade having the bye, the action on Saturday kicks off at 12.15 with the Women’s game on Field Number 1 with Colts on the main Oval, a resurgent 2nd grade with back-to-back wins kicks off at 1.40 and the 1st grade clash at 3.00pm. All teams will have a point to prove with Vikings proving tough in every grade and as has been noted previously, all grades are very tightly placed as the competition enters that last round of 5 matches.
For those attending Saturday, full canteen facilities will be available, and we ask all patrons to please observe all the signage around the ground relating to Public Health, check in, socially distancing and maintain good hygiene. A bbq will also be operating for any patrons looking to brave the cold on Thursday night.
