On their inaugural Ladies Day, the Braidwood Redbacks set the town alight on Saturday afternoon with a hard fought win over finals contenders the Jindabyne Bushpigs.
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Seeking revenge for a first round drubbing by the Bushpigs, the Redbacks continued their end of season resurgence with a 22-17 win.
The Redbacks started the game the stronger and were soon rewarded by a fine long range try to Harry Shoemark.
Jindabyne started to work their way into the game and were soon on the scoresheet when they crossed for two quick tries taking the lead 12 points to five.
With the introduction of Riley Turner, back from a long term hamstring injury the Redbacks again took control of the game and on the back of some strong runs from Riley, just before half time five eighth Ben Howard crossed for a fine try, which unconverted took the Redbacks into half time two points behind at 12-10.
The Redbacks started the second half how they started first with some fine attacking football led by number eight Jack Ward.
Jack, from Majors Creek and an ex-SG Ball rugby league player with St George, was single-handily ripping the Bushpigs defence apart and helped the Redbacks cross for their third try, and Ben Howard's second of the day.
However Jindabyne soon hit back from a classy break by their fullback ended up with a try in the corner bring the scores to 17-17 with around 15 minutes to play.
The intensity of the game hit a new level with some big hits from both sides exciting the large Braidwood crowd.
However it was the Redbacks who were to come out on top with five eighth Ben Howard crossing for his third try and sending in the large home crowd into raptures.
The Redbacks held on for the last five minutes coming out victors by 22 points to 17.
Three points went to man-mountain Jack Ward, two points to hat-trick scorer Ben Howard and one point went to Dan Hart who continues to improve and impress every game after debuting at the beginning of this season. Players' Player went to Jack Ward.
Saturday was the inaugural Ladies Day where the Redbacks played tribute to the women in our community.
The day was a huge success and has set the foundations for a yearly event on the Redbacks' calendar.
Special thanks goes to Katelyn Bray for organising he day, including the food and great t-shirts that sold like hotcakes. Thanks also goes to Bec from Sandalwood and Kate Moran from Nutrimetics for providing the raffle prizes and Rambo at the Royal Mail Hotel for the bubbly. The Redbacks also want to pass on their appreciation to the large crowd that attended the game on Saturday, especially the "special guest" ground announcer from Green Homes. The crowd certainly help the boys get over the line.
Next Saturday sees another home game with the Redbacks welcoming Broulee to the Rec Ground.
A date to put in your calendars is Friday 26th July where the Redbacks will welcome the Bungendore Mudchooks for a night game playing for the Palerang Shield. This grudge match promises to be a blockbuster and ensuring a huge crowd will be important for the Redbacks to get the win.