Sport
14 March, 2022
Roosters claim trial match win
THE Atherton Roosters fine tuned their preparations for the opening round of the 2022 rugby league premiership with a 52-16 defeat of the Mareeba Gladiators in Saturday nights pre-season trial played at Atherton’s Mungalli Creek Dairy Stadium.
Roosters head coach Graham Clark would be pleased by what he saw as his side delivered a 10 tries to three effort.
There were many stars for the Roosters including first grade debutantes Tom Cuda, Kaleb Neilson, Aiden Carson and Luke Misener who all impressed in their first run with the top side.
Willem Foster’s try at the 9th minute started the Roosters night and one for Ned Blackman soon after gave the hosts an early 10-0 lead.
Tries to Jodecy Strickland and Liam Drew kept Mareeba in the contest but it was the Roosters who went to the break leading 20-12.
Tries to Jordon Skeen, James Coyle and Tom Cuda soon after the restart pushed the Roosters further ahead 32-12.
Aiden Carson’s eye catching long range solo four pointer at the 65th minute showcased the young talent coming through the Roosters ranks this year.
Tyson Burchell’s try at the 36th minute wrapped up the nights scoring and it was a welcome return for the prop forward who was back in the Roosters colours after a two year break.
Atherton celebrated wins in all grades with the two lower grade teams also coming away with victories.
In reserve grade, the Roosters won 20-14 over the Gladiators after leading 12-8 at halftime.
The Roosters under 18 side led 16-4 at the break before holding out a fast finishing Gladiators side to win 20-14.
The Senior Roosters host more pre-season trials this Saturday against Edmonton Storm and Cairns Brothers.
First 2022 premiership game for the Atherton Roosters is an away game in Innisfail against the Leprechauns on March 26 while the Gladiators also travel away to Gordonvale for their first with Southern Suburbs.
