Molong Magpies Walla vs Emus 25 June 2023

Thank you to Liana Elliott of Croak Media for the pics and Brett Murdoch for the write-up

The Molong Magpies Wallas made the journey to Orange Emus last Sunday 25 June with U6 drew Emus and Canowindra, U8 Orange City and Canowindra, U10 Emus White and Emus Black.

U6

In an action-packed under 6s gala day at Orange Emus, the young Magpies showcased their budding skills and sportsmanship. Luke Mackenzie, in his fourth game for the club after being a late recruit, was hailed as the Player of the Day. Luke's rapid development and ability to form friendships with the team have been delightful to witness. His defensive prowess was evident as he expertly held his line before swiftly tagging opponents. With his smooth ball handling and unwavering sportsmanship, Luke is destined to become a valuable senior Magpie, following in the footsteps of his father, Rod.

The clash against the Emus marked a significant milestone for the Magpies, as they displayed great improvement in their passing game. Quinn Butler, Isaac Hobbs, Henry Welsh and Paddy Murphy took turns donning the half-back vest, orchestrating the team's attacking moves. The younger players, including Mav Barrett and Hugh Butler, impressed their Mums and Dads on the sidelines with their improving skills and unwavering concentration.

The second game against Canowindra witnessed a career-defining moment for our very Junior Magpie, Ryan Murphy, who scored his first-ever try. Much to everyone's surprise, Ryan swiftly followed it up with a second try, leaving both Canowindra and Molong in awe of his talent.

With the school holidays just around the corner, our young Magpies have earned a well-deserved rest. We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to the parents who have been instrumental in coaching our U6s this season. Additionally, a special appreciation goes out to Michelle Murphy for her on-field reporting throughout the season, which have greatly assisted Natasha in compiling this weekly report.

Wishing everyone a fantastic holiday, we eagerly look forward to the next thrilling chapter of the Magpies' journey after the break.

The mighty Molong under 8s headed to the big smoke of Orange for their last Walla’s gala day before the school holidays. The boys enjoyed the footy on what was a spectacular orange winters day. Coming off some tough games at Wellington the week before, the boys bounced back amazingly starting the first game against Orange City in impressive form. Mitch Redfern tackled well but it was his control at the ruck in attack that was exceptional. He secured the Molong pill magnificently allowing the Elliot twins, Lachlan, Nik and Sam to run a muck. Leo and Max tackled to perfection, chopping all day while Lincon did the hard yards in the middle. The boys finishing the game on top and full of running.

This form continued in the second game against Canowindra. Riley Elliot was strong his defence was on point and his attack just as good. The boys enjoyed playing in the mud puddle end of the pitch and were again playing some top quality rugby.

The best magpie went to Mitch Redfern who ran and tackled well but it was his wallaby like ruck work which earned him the trophy this week.

Riley Elliot had stepped up and matched his brother’s efforts from the week before making him the player of the day. Swoop magpies.

U10

The U10's Magpies were in fine form on Sunday, easily playing two of their best games all year! The team is really rallying around each other and relishing in the hard games!

Game one against Emus White saw the Magpies fly out of the blocks with great intent and commitment. The Emus however responded and found another gear managing to out muscle the Magpies in the first half. The Magpies made a choice at the half time huddle and decided they could dig deeper and they would find another gear. The half time hooter signalled the end of half time and the end of a team that would give nothing less than 110%! Not only did the Mighty 'Pies’ find another gear, they found a road ranger gear box and proceeded to double shift into 18th! A massive turn around in the game saw the Magpies team full of elation and praise for each other having just realised their own strength! Cooper Goburg found his inner beast and made a multitude of taunting tackles.

Well done to all the junior Magpies who played at the Orange Emus Galah day recently.

Twas’ a cold morning and an early start for players and parents alike. All kids played well and the muddy uniforms are testament to their hard work, tough tackles and fun. Special mention to the players of the day:

U6 - Luke Mackenzie

U8 - Riley Elliott and Mitch Redfern

U10 - Bryson Elliott and Seb Mullins

Thanks to all the parents and families for their unwavering support of the club and the juniors who are enjoying their rugby this season.

Liana Elliott

Seb Mullins was an unstoppable clean out machine! Arlo Webb, Tom Salter and Hunter Roberts really leaned into the contest of the match with slicing attacking raids and rock solid defence!

Game two was a physical and intense game against a strong Emus Black team that will be talked about for decades to come. After an initially conservative start from both teams the passing, rucking, counter rucking, running, tackling built in intensity as the game flew into half time. The half time huddle was a mixture of red frog induced excitement and gut level exhilaration as the Magpies could sense a momentous second half was about to play out! The Magpies showed rugby smarts, changed tactics and tucked the ball in tight (pick and drive style) to take the Emus rush defence out of play. This combined with spades and spades of courage and determination saw the Magpies finish this game off with their best performance of the season! Bryson Elliott stepped up and made a squillion running meters this game. Max Butler wasn't going to shy away from the contest either and was somehow the first man at the breakdown all day! Jaxon Townsend is becoming a force to be reckoned with, showing us just how strong his running game is becoming. Player of the day went to Bryson Elliott and Seb Mullins was awarded toughest player for the day.

A recap of the legendry Players of the Gala Day were:

- U6 Luke MacKenzie

- U8 Riley Elliott with Mitch Redfern ‘Best Magpie’

- U10 Bryson Elliott with Seb Mullins ‘Toughest Player”

Thankyou again to Emus for hosting the day. Next week sees the club move into the school holiday break with the next Gala Day being 23 July at home at the Molong Rec. All are invited to see these legendry teams in action.

Central West will be holding a Wallas/Juniors (6- 18 years) training camp on Wednesday 12 July at The Rec including BBQ lunch. Registration details to follow shortly and all sporting players regardless of code are invited to attend at nil cost.

The Magpie