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Champions! Warren Pumas win By HARRIET GILMORE FOR the fi rst time in 35 years, Warren Pumas have won the Western Plains Rugby Grand Final at home, defeating reigning premiers, Walgett, by 1312, in a thrilling game that went down to the wire. The more than 1000 spectators who lined Victoria Oval on Saturday, were kept on the edge of their seats for the full 80 minutes, with the Pumas securing the historic win by a sinly point, after holding Walgett up on their own try-line after the full-time siren. Defence from both teams was almost impenetrable throughout the game, with Walgett managing to cross the line twice, compared to the Pumas single try, to Oscar Nuthall. But it was the golden boot of Hagan Size that made the difference, successfully converting two penalties and the try. Pumas First Grade Captain, and Player of the Match Will Archer, was absolutely thrilled to come away with the win on Saturday. “What a tough win that was; We have so much respect for Walgett, who have really dominated over the last few years,” Archer said during his after-match speech. It was down to the fl ick of a coin at the end,” he added. The players , and club supporters, had made it all possible, he said. “I’m so proud of our boys; thank-you to everyone who came down today and for the season to support us. This one’s for you!” he said. Long-time coach and Club stalwart, Mal Smith was also full of praise for his
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Glory! Warren Pumas have won the Western Plains Rugby Championship, defeating Walgett in a nail-biting grand final on Saturday. PHOTO: WARREN STAR.
winning side. “It was a very tough game with defence from both sides outstanding,” he said. “Walgett have set the standard in the zone over the last few years and have some outstanding and talented play-
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ers, so we had to be at our best to win, which we were on the day,” he added. He said that the win was the result of a whole-hearted effort. “The commitment from the players to the team, and
each other, really showed through in that game; it was outstanding. A great group of young men who it was an absolute pleasure to be involved with; they will remember and cherish that win for the rest of their
lives,” Mal said. He said that, all local players and supporters can take credit for the famous victory.
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