An 18-all drawn between Hawks and Blueheelers, Malleemen unable to field teams and Leeton trounce TLU.Leeton Greens ran out winners across the board, in their lakeside matches against hosts TLU Sharks at Lake Cargellico.Yenda and Yanco shared wins in the lower grades, before playing out an 18-all draw.Darlington Point Coleambally took a solid league tag win but home side Waratah Tigers outplayed DPC and took the points in both reserves and first grade.Waratahs first grade team, under the coaching leadership of Brett Goldsink and Willie Lolohea, are yet to lose a game, and sit atop the Group 20 competition ladder.Once again, West Wyalong Malleemen were unable to field men’s sides and were late forfeits against Hay Magpies. This time, they also forfeited the league tag match, after beating Yanco 60 nil the previous week.Magpies president Kelly Gash said it was disappointing no games were played, but said she understood.”West Wyalong are a great club who are struggling,” Ms Gash said.”Hay has been in the same situation in the past, so we fully understand their situation.”Despite no games being played, the Magpies hosted their Old Boys and reunion gatherings at Hay Parks on Saturday evening.Results:Hay Magpies v West Wyalong Malleemen at Hay Park (Saturday)League tag: West Wyalong forfeitedReserve grade: West Wyalong forfeitedFirst grade: West Wyalong forfeitedWaratah Tigers v Darlington Point Coleambally Roosters at Exies Oval, GriffithLeague tag: DPC 16 defeated Waratahs 4Reserve grade: Waratahs 34 defeated DPC 10First grade: Waratahs 28 defeated DPC 12Yanco Hawks v Yenda Blueheelers at Yanco SportsgroundLeague tag: Yenda 18 defeated Yanco 6Reserve grade: Yanco 14 defeated Yenda 12First grade: 18-all drawTullibidgeal Lakes United Sharks v Leeton Greens at Lake Cargellico SportsgroundUnder 18s: Leeton 56 defeated TLU 16League tag: Leeton 18 defeated TLU 4Reserve grade: Leeton 18 defeated TLU 4First grade: Leeton 60 defeated TLU 10Friday night under 16 results:Leeton 24 defeated Narrandera 16TLU 34 defeated Yenda 6Waratahs 26 defeated Yanco 12First grade; Leeton 60 TLU 10

The 2025 ProTen season will kick off with round one matches played tomorrow in Ivanhoe.The Ivanhoe Roosters and Hens will launch the season with their Indigenous round, and play in jerseys designed by artist Carolyn Williams.An auction of jerseys will be held at the Ivanhoe RSL Club Saturday evening, and limited edition Indigenous Round polos will be available at the game.Referees have also indicated that they will be stricter on the safeplay code the competition plays under this season, with perhaps too many things let go in past seasons.Games start at 10am - $5 entry through the gate at Sahara Oval and full bar and canteen facilities will be available.Round 1 draw:Men's gamesHillston v DeniliquinBarellan v NarranderaIvanhoe v GoolgowiWomen's gamesHillston v BarellanIvanhoe v GoolgowiRankins Springs has the bye.

Country proves dominant in the annual representative match, overcoming early pressure to seal a 26-14 victory over City.The Country team proved too strong, defeating City 26-14 in the annual Country v City match at Jubilee Stadium on the weekend.The Country side included Leeton’s Braxton Wallace and Gundagai’s James Morgan.Both teams started off with attacking spirit and City scored the game the first points, thanks to a dummy-half try from City five-eighth Anthony Layoun.Country scored shortly after when fullback Callum Gromek broke the line and pushed off opponents, to score.Country lost halfback Chad O’Donnell to the sinbin in the 23rd minute, following a tripping incident, but the side did not concede, and second-rower Jacob Kernick found his way across the line, to score under the posts.Country found the line again just before half-time when O’Donnell kicked to centre Matthew Soper-Lawler to score. Country went into the break with a 18-4 lead.A revitalised City side started the second half strongly, when centre Vito Tevaga, carried defenders across the line with him to score.With momentum behind them, City halfback Zac Greene kicked a well-timed 40/20 allowing City to shift the ball left to winger Steven Taupau Sako who scored. The margin reduced to four points.Country took the difference out to a converted try, kicking a penalty goal in the 52nd minute, following some undisciplined play from City and the Country side was able to hold on for the win.At the final sire the score was Country 20 – City 14.Country second rower Jacob Kernick was been named Player of the Match.

The 2025 season ProTen draw has been re-released, following news Naranderra has been unable to field a women’s side.In a statement, ProTen officials called it “unfortunate,” but have moved to release a new draw, for the women’s competition.“Unfortunately, Narrandera Lizards have been unable to field a women's side for the 2025 season, leaving the competition with five teams. “The club’s majority voted to have a four-game/one-bye season in the interest of fairness, with all clubs playing each other once. “Other options would have only ended with unfair draws with some teams receiving more byes than others or some teams having to play twice on the same day.” Season newcomers Deniliquin Blueheelers have not entered a women’s team for 2025, and under their agreement to be accepted into the revamped Group 17 competition, are only required to field a men’s side for each match, with no forfeits allowed.The rounds at Deniliquin and Narrandera will be general byes for all teams.The new draw is below:PROTEN CUP 2025 COMPETITION DRAW WOMENSKNOCKOUT – May 10th – Hosts BARELLANRound 1 – May 24th Hosts – IVANHOEBarellan vs HillstonIvanhoe vs GoolgowiRankins Springs – ByeRound 2 – May 31st Hosts – BARELLANGoolgowi vs Rankins SpringsBarellan vs IvanhoeHillston – ByeLong Weekend – June 7thRound 3 – June 14th Hosts – GOOLGOWIRankins Springs vs IvanhoeGoolgowi vs HillstonBarellan – ByeRound 4 – June 21st Hosts – NARRANDERAGeneral ByeRound 5 – June 28th Hosts – HILLSTONBarellan vs GoolgowiHillston vs Rankins SpringsIvanhoe – ByeRound 6 – July 5th Hosts – DENILIQUINGeneral ByeRound 7 – July 12th Hosts – RANKINS SPRINGSIvanhoe vs HillstonRankins Springs vs BarellanGoolgowi – ByeSEMI-FINALS July 19th – Hosts – 1ST-PLACE (Mens)PRELIMINARY FINALS July 26th – Hosts – 2ND-PLACE (Mens)GRAND FINALS August 2nd – Hosts – HILLSTON

A mixed bag of results across the competition in round 5, as injuries, illness and suspensions impact clubs.In first grade, the top of the table teams submitted to their lower placed opponents, with the exception of Yenda, who trounced TU Sharks.Once against, West Wyalong struggled to get two senior mens squads on the paddock, and forfeited their reserve grade match, at home, against Yanco.Griffith Black & Whites v Hay Magpies at Solar Mad Stadium, GriffithLeague tag: Black & Whites 38 defeated Hay 6Reserve Grade: Hay 20 defeated Black & Whites 14Women’s 9s: Hay 26 defeated Black & Whites 20First grade: Black & Whites 28 defeated Hay 20Yenda Blueheelers v TLU Sharks at Wade Park, YendaUnder 18s: Yenda 34 defeated TLU 14League tag: TLU 44 defeated Yenda 6Reserve grade: Yenda 38 defeated TLU 18First grade: Yenda 44 defeated TLU 22West Wyalong v Yanco at Ron Crowe Oval, West WyalongLeague tag: West Wyalong 62 defeated Yanco 0Reserve grade: West Wyalong forfeitFirst grade: Yanco 56 defeated West Wyalong 6Leeton Greens v Darlington Point Roosters at Leeton SportsgroundLeague tag: Leeton 40 defeated DPC 0Reserve grade: DPC 28 defeated Leeton 12First grade: DPC 31 defeated Leeton 12Griffith Waratahs had the bye.Friday night under 16s results:Yanco Hawks 58 defeated Black & Whites 18Leeton 30 defeated TLU Sharks 28Yenda 22 defeated Narrandera 10

Written by Tallon SmithThe Griffith Waratah Tigers have won their fourth straight game to start the season after a narrow 18-16 win over the Leeton Greenies at the Exies Oval on Sunday.Both sides scored three tries each in the nail biting affair, but in the end it was the goalkicking of Ulu Akolo which proved the difference, with the Waratahs winger nailing three from three conversions, while Leeton’s James Tafiti finished with two from three.Griffith Waratah Tigers co-coach Brett Goldspink said that while it was the scrappiest of the Waratahs’ games so far this season, the team still performed well enough to get the win.“We were just coughed up [the ball], on tackle two and three for probably four or five sets in a row,” he said.“They [Leeton] just kept coming, they were a well drilled side, I was pleased to have some quality opposition, and probably a bit of that was caused by them, to be honest, it wasn't all our own fault, they got into our faces, so it was great.”Goldspink said that it was resilience and clever use of their interchanges that saw the Tigers overcome a half time deficit to win the match against one of the surprise packets of the competition.“We only used two replacements in the first half, I just wanted to make sure we came home strong,” he said.“The boys, they put themselves in that situation, so they just [had] to get themselves out of it.“And then pretty much, [we] came out in the second half, [and] probably for the first 15 minutes, we just played like how we knew we could. “They [the Waratahs team] put on 12 points in three sets of six.”“[It was] 18-10 with about five minutes to go, then [they] scored, and it was like, ‘oh here we go’, but we held on.” Goldspink was also full of praise for his side’s opponents, even going as far to make a complimentary comparison.“I think between the two sides today, it just reminded me of a Group 9 game,” he said.“It was at that standard, not trying to be insulting Group 20, but it was Group 9 [level], even though there was a lot of dropped ball.”The Waratah Tigers now sit a game clear atop the table after four rounds.

Referees stop game after alleged referee abuseThe first grade match between Hay Magpies and Yenda Blueheelers ended in spectacular fashion, when referees ended the game with just over 17 minutes remaining on the clock.The game was stopped in the second half, and a spectator asked to leave the ground by referees, however the game was ended when referees claimed the abuse of match officials had continued.The level and context of the abuse towards referees is unclear, however neither Hay nor Yenda’s captains were consulted before the game was called off.Fans from both clubs expressed disbelief and disappointment around the grounds, as players left the field. Many said they had never seen anything like it.The Magpies club confirmed they will request a re-match. If Yenda refuse the request, it is believed a draw will be recorded and the points will be shared, however Group 20’s official results have recorded a Yenda win.NSW Rugby League were contacted for comment and although they did not confirm it was the Hay match in question, said they are investigating the allegations of referee abuse.“The NSW Rugby League is investigating the matter and will not be making any further comment until the investigation is complete,” a spokesperson said.The Hay club released a statement on Sunday evening, after the game.“The Hay Magpies do not condone any abuse or poor behaviour by fans towards match officials. “We are disappointed in the actions today as our first grade squad were making a clear second half comeback with 17 minutes remaining before the match was abandoned by the match officials. “We seek to identify all parties involved and they will be dealt with accordingly.”Group 20 and the Referees Association were contacted for comment but did not respond.The Magpies had re-shuffled team lists throughout the week, losing the services of Jock and Toby Crighton to injury, but had fielded a competitive side.Before the shock end to the game Hay had fought back from a 16-point half-time deficit, following an error-filled first half.Soft penalties left Hay fighting for possession as Yenda scored three unanswered tries in the gruelling match-up.“The first half was the worst half of football we have played,” coach Chris Stewart said.“An eight to zero penalty count against us and 12 errors.“We started the second half with 12 due to a sin-bin and I asked the boys to dig in until we had our 13 back on the field, and to come home strong.“That’s what we did, coming back to a 22-20 scoreline.”Jack Stark’s fine form was rewarded when he pushed over to score Hay’s first points, but Hay played out the half with 12 players, after losing Rex Rokosusu to the bin for a wayward elbow. Despite the overlap, Hay did not concede any points.Ben Arandt and Jerry Balenawi fought for every one of Hay’s metres with each carry, and in grinding form, the Magpies fought back. As always, Ben Taylor was safe for Hay, and Hugh Crighton played with his usual effortless vigour.A barrelling pass from hooker Will Barnes allowed Arandt to muscle across the line to score.From the bench, and backing up from huge efforts in reserve grade, Zane Gash and Zac O’Neill gave good service.A Yenda error gave Hay possession and an Arandt lingering pass to O’Neill saw him crash over the line.Another error by the visitors gave Hay the opportunity they needed and Rokosusu streaked away, before sending a pass sailing to Crighton, who scored.However, before Taylor had the opportunity to kick the conversion to even the score, the game was stopped.Stewart was frustrated with the result.“I strongly believe we would have gone on to win, but it wasn’t to be, due to what happened.”The coach named Will Barnes, Jack Stark and Ben Arandt as his top three.Final score: Hay 20 (Tries: Jack Stark, Ben Arandt, Zac O’Neill, Hugh Crighton. Goals: Ben Taylor 2) Yenda 22.Awards:  Jack Stark player’s player. Will Barnes coaches award.After two consecutive home games, Hay will hit the road next Sunday to play Griffith Black & Whites at the Exies Oval.

BY JAMIE PARSONS The Narrandera Lizards have taken away the Proten Cup Knockout for the fourth time, bouncing back after fears the club would fold only weeks ago. The men’s team only got together for the first time last week, with club officials ringing around to get enough numbers to play. Coaches Malek Afuamua-Lyons and Barlow Simpson won the shield on their first day as coaches. In the women’s knockout Barellan were once again far and away the best team of the four clubs who entered women’s sides on the day, going through without a point scored against them with a 16-0 win over Ivanhoe, 30-0 over Rankins Springs and then 34-0 over Ivanhoe again in the final. Narrandera started off well with a win over hosts Barellan, who were short a few players for the day. The Rams went down by 4 in that game but bounced back to beat Hillston 12-4.The Bluebirds had a ton of numbers turn up after a very good pre-season however couldn’t quite get it together on the field, going down 16-0 to Ivanhoe in their first game before their loss to Barellan.New boys the Deniliquin Blue Heelers turned up with a full squad in a very good sign. They were soundly beaten in a 32-0 victory for Narrandera in their first game but regrouped for a much better showing in an 18-6 loss to Ivanhoe in their second.The Ivanhoe Roosters had a successful day with a squad full of returning players. Despite wins over Hillston and Deni they just couldn’t get there in the final, going down 16-8 to the Lizards. New coaches Dwayne Evans and Jay Little look to have the Roosters poised to be competitive once again. Their women’s side also had a decent hit out despite missing several stars. In probably the best game of the day the Hens got up over the Bluebirds girls 10-6 with a try on the fulltime siren. In Hillston’s other game they fought out a very tough 0-all draw against the Rankins Springs Dragonettes, with neither side giving an inch. Round 1 is fast approaching with all teams heading to Ivanhoe on May 24. Hopefully the Goolgowi and Rankins Springs boys and the Goolgowi and Narrandera girls can get their sides primed in time for their first hit-outs. Full Knockout ResultsMen’sNarrandera 10-6 BarellanIvanhoe 16-0 HillstonNarrandera 32-0 DeniliquinBarellan 12-4 HillstonIvanhoe 18-6 DeniliquinFinal – Narrandera 16-8 Ivanhoe Women’s Barellan 16-0 IvanhoeRankins Springs 0-0 HillstonBarellan 30-0 Rankins SpringsIvanhoe 10-6 HillstonFinal – Barellan 34-0 Ivanhoe

Narrandera Lizards defeated Ivanhoe Roosters in the men’s final, to take out their fourth ProTen Knockout.At the final siren, the Lizards ground out a hard-fought 16 to 8 win.In a solid showing, Ivanhoe also contested the women’s final, but went down to a barnstorming Barellan outfit, who posted a comprehensive 34 to nil victory.Full results:Men’s games - Narrandera 10 defeated Barellan 6. Narrandera 32 defeated Deniliquin 0. Barellan 12 defeated Hillston 4. Ivanhoe 18 defeated Deniliquin 6.Women’s games - Barellan 16 defeated Ivanhoe 0. Hillston 0 drew with Rankins Springs 0. Barellan 30 defeated Rankins Springs 0. Ivanhoe 10 defeated Hillston 6.The ProTen competition proper will kick off on May 24 at Hillston.Deniliquin Blueheelers took to the field in their first rugby league match in 48 years, thanks to the reformation of the rugby league club in the AFL-focussed town.Hillston Bluebird coach Tommy Brettschneider was full of praise for his team's efforts.“I am really proud of the boys efforts today, the score doesn’t reflect the amount of effort that we put in during the preseason," he said. "Overall, there’s lots of things that we can take from today’s performances. "We have a really good bunch of young people coming through and I’m really confident going in to round one that if we work on a few things we will be a force to reckon with.”Ivanhoe will host round one of the ProTen Community Cup on May 24, as part of their Indigenous Round.

The Group 20 round four results across the competition - The Hay v Yenda first grade game ended prematurely.Referees called the Hay v Yenda first grade game off with 18 minutes on the clock, after referee abuse was reported.Sources say a rematch is on offer, to be played during the August general bye.At the time Hay was coming back from a 16-point half-time deficit to be within two-points of a draw, but when referees stopped the game for a second time after reports of spectator comments, the decision was made to end the game early.Hay Magpies had just crossed for a try, however the opportunity to convert to even the score was not given.Earlier, West Wyalong Mallee Men had withdrawn both their first and reserve grade teams, citing injury, meaning only the league tag side travelled to Darlington Point to meet the RoostersFull results:Hay v Yenda at Hay ParkFirst grade: Yenda 22 Hay 20* Game yet to be finalisedReserve grade: Hay 20 Yenda 16League tag: Hay 40 Yenda 6Darlington Point / Coleambally v West Wyalong at Darlington Point Sports groundLeague tag: West Wyalong 40 DPC 4Tullibigeal Lakes United v Griffith Black & Whites at Lake Cargellico Sports groundFirst grade: TLU 26 Black & Whites 20Reserve grade: TLU 16 Black & Whites 10League tag: 10-all drawGriffith Waratahs v Leeton at Exies Oval, GriffithFirst grade: Waratahs 18 Leeton 16Reserve grade: Waratahs 22 Leeton 12League tag: Leeton 34 Waratahs 0

Roos claim four-point win at Greenham Park; dominant day for netball and reserves sides.Balranald Roos senior team hosted Tyntynder at Greenham Park on Saturday, and held on to post a thrilling round four win.Balranald enjoyed a great first quarter, and went into the first break with a 38 to 3 lead.However, after a big first two quarters in the Roos favour, Tyntynder found their groove and closed the margin, gaining on the Roos and finding ground in the third quarter.Despite the comeback, they were unable to match the Roos and Balranald went on to take the narrow four-point win.Balranald’s Benjamin Fuller booted four goals, with Bradly Hartman scoring a double and singles kicked by Lachlan Collihole, Ryan Middlebrook and Roarke Smith.Final score: Balranald 9.5-59 defeated Tyntynder 7.13-55Best players: Bradley Hartman, Ryan Middlebrook, Cody Henness, Lachlan Collihole, Jack Helgeland, Roarke SmithBalranald scored a big win in the reserve grade match, defeating Tyntyner by 37 points.The Roos started slowly but built on their margin in every quarter, outplaying the visitors.Final score: Balranald 16.9-105 defeated Tyntynder 10.8-68. Best players: Jess Scott, Colin Andrews, Bailey Brougham, Jacob Shannon, Keidan Basset, Broden Basset.The Roos carried a narrow seven-point lead at the first break, but from there, Tyntynder surged forward, to stay just out of reach of the Balranald side.Final score: Tyntynder 13.9-87 defeated Balranald 11.7-73.Best players: Bob Helgeland, Tarkyn Doyle, Lucas Griffiths, Levi Ryan, Zachary Lehner, Benny Cimino.Tyntynder took a solid win in the under-15s match, leading at every break and keeping the Roos scoreless in the final quarter.Final score: Tyntynder 11.7-73 defeated Balranald 1.9-15.Best players: Archie Alderuccio, Reid Jolliffe, Billy Fitzgerald, Will Cimino, Leslie Bodinnar, Angus Potter.The senior netball side mirrored the AFL results, taking home wins on the courts.The Roos A-grade netball side played out a hard-fought 48-all draw against the visiting Tyntynder side. Goal shooter Bec Harvey scored an incredible 41 goals, with Macy Lloyd and Jess Parry also contributing vital points.In just two games, Harvey has already amassed 66 season goals.Balranald took out the B grade match 41 goals to Tyntynder’s 31. Goal shooter Lani Wilkinson shot 26 goals, supported by Faith Jolliffee, who shot 14.The Roos won the B Reserve match, shooting 41 goals to Tyntynders 32. Kiandra Dalton potted 22 goals and Lani Wilkinson – backing up from the B grade game - shot 19.Other netball results:Under 17s – Balranald 24 Tyntynder 45Under 15s – Balranald 32 Tyntynder 68Under 13s – Balranald 2 Tyntynder 44Under 13 reserves – Balranald 8 Tyntynder 34The Roos will travel to Nyah on Saturday to take on the Nyah Nyah West teams for round five of the Central Murray League. NNW are last year’s senior AFL premiership winners.

Hay Magpies outplayed struggling Tullibigeal Lakes United (TLU) Sharks teams in two grades on Sunday at Hay Park.The Sharks were only able to field teams for league tag and first grade, and chose to forfeit the reserve grade game on Friday evening. Despite the forfeit the Sharks only played 12 men in total during the first grade match.Hay’s first point came from a break by winger Billy Fixter, who sent Hugh Crighton sailing over under the posts. Soon after brother Jock Crighton also scored, on the back of solid busting runs by Zane Gash and Harley Hey.The Sharks bit back with a try to Ned Phillips, who deftly chased a deep kick to score. However, the momentum for the rest of the half was all in Hay’s favour.Lock Ben Arandt busted over for the Magpies, before Gash’s next break allowed a swift pass to Hey, who finished the effort off, scoring under the posts. Rex Rokosusu palmed defenders off to score before the siren, and Hay went into the break with a 26-point margin.Despite good service from Jayden Kelly, who’s kicking game has lost little sting. Hay crossed again twice. Hugh Crighton grabbed his second try, before Rokosusu scored from the next kickoff, almost untouched, to post a hat trick of tries.Jerry Balenawi made big powerful runs to give Hay space but it was a clever Kelly kick that gave TLU a chance. Kelly regathered his own chip over the top to score and then convert as well.Dylan Lund scored next for the Magpies but even as the Sharks energy faltered Todd Collins capitalised on a Magpies error and scored.Lund sent a well-timed pass across to Shaun Aylett under full steam, and he crossed for the, before Hey’s refusal to surrender to defenders was rewarded with another try in the final moments of the game.In all, Hay posted a whopping 11 tries to the Sharks three, however the visitors gave good service for the entire game, but were outnumbered.“It was another good win but we are taking it one game at a time,” coach Chris Stewart said. “Everyone played well, especially when we played our own style, getting in the grind.”Stewart named Zane Gash, Harley Hey and hooker Will Barnes as his best players. Final score: Hay Magpies 50 (Tries Rex Rokosusu 3, Hugh Crighton2, Harley Hey 2, Jock Crighton, Ben Arandt, Dylan Lund, Shaun Aylett. Goals: Ben Taylor 3) TLU Sharks 14.In the league tag match, TLU scored three skilful, quick tries to set Hay a challenge. In the final seven minutes of the first half Karly Fisher crossed to get Hay on the board. Lily Weymouth and Lani Houston combined and Weymouth was unlucky not to score, however Wendy Gonevulavula scored on the next play and Hay went into the break trailing by two points.“We started slowly,” coach Jessie Carter said. “But I am very proud of the team for making the comeback they did.”The Magpies ramped up pressure in the second half. The tagging efforts of Noa Magliocchetti were on display and Kayla Barrett made many valuable metres with each carry.Emily Shea made her first grade debut on Sunday and like all the players coming through the junior ranks, she was not intimidated by the much older opposition.On the back of multiple penalties, Hay enjoyed repeat sets, but the Shark line held until Weymouth weaved over to score, and Hay hit the lead for the first time.Gonevulavula increased pressure on TLU ball carriers and forced an error. Lily Plum followed up with a blinding run, before Gonevulvula crossed for her second to seal the win for Hay.“Hannah Stewart’s kicking was on song, giving us multiple handovers,” Carter said. “Wendy Gonevulavula played her usual deadly game in attack, keeping TLU on their toes. Carter also praised Captain Lily Weymouth.“Lily has stepped into her first year as captain very well. I’m proud of the way she leads the girls and I think it shows best when you’re coming from behind how crucial that leadership role can be.”Final score: Hay 24 (Tries Wendy Gonevulavula 2, Karly Fisher, Lily Weymouth. Goals Karly Fisher 4)Hay will enjoy another home game next Sunday when they host Yenda Blueheelers for the Mother’s Day round four games. “We still have plenty of work to do with a big game against Yenda this weekend,” Stewart said. In first grade Yenda accounted for Darlington Point Coleambally (DPC) by just two points in round three, but went down to DPC in both reserves and league tag.Other round 3 results:Black & Whites v Yanco Wamoon Hawks at Solar Mad Stadium, GriffithLeague tag - Black & Whites 58 defeated Yanco 0Women’s 9s - Yanco 26 defeated Black & Whites 12Reserve grade - Black & Whites 34 defeated Yanco 10First grade - Yanco 44 defeated Black & Whites 14West Wyalong Malle Men v Griffith Waratahs at Ron Crowe Oval, West WyalongUnder 18s - West Wyalong 46 defeated Waratahs 12League tag - West Wyalong 42 defeated Waratahs 10Reserve grade - ForfeitFirst grade - Waratahs 66 defeated West Wyalong 14Yenda Blueheers v Darlington Point Colleambally Roosters at Wade Park, YendaLeague tag - DOC 16 defeated Yenda 0Reserve grade - DPC defeated Yenda 12First grade - Yenda 30 defeated DPC 28

BY JAMIE PARSONSProten Cup Knockout Returns to Barellan This SaturdayThe highly anticipated seventh Proten Cup Knockout is set to take place this Saturday, May 10, with the Barellan Rams hosting the event for the second time. This year's knockout marks the on-field return of the Deniliquin Blue Heelers, adding an extra layer of intrigue to the day's proceedings.The knockout competition underwent a significant change in 2025, becoming a voluntary event with teams able to nominate their participation for either the men's or women's draws. This decision came after several clubs and players expressed favour for the day being removed from the calendar altogether. The date often falls in the middle of the busy sowing season, making it difficult for many players from rural clubs to participate. Following discussions at the Annual General Meeting in October, clubs ultimately voted to retain the day but on a voluntary basis for each club.This Saturday will see five sides competing in the men's draw. The field includes hosts Barellan, along with Hillston, Ivanhoe, Narrandera, and the returning Deniliquin. Each men's club will play two games throughout the day, with the top two teams at the conclusion of these matches advancing to the final.The women's competition features four teams battling it out: Barellan, Hillston, Ivanhoe, and Rankins Springs. They will compete in a similar draw format to the men's sides, aiming for a spot in the women's final.Unfortunately, a couple of clubs have been forced to pull out of the knockout due to low player numbers. The Goolgowi Rabbitohs have withdrawn both their men's and women's teams, while the Rankins Springs men's team and the Narrandera women's team are also missing, reportedly due to similar availability issues.Historically, Goolgowi and Rankins Springs have found the men's knockout tough despite their strong performances in the regular competition proper. Goolgowi did make the very first final back in 2018, though the sources also note that the 'Dragons' are the only Proten Cup team not to have made a knockout final. Barellan's men's side enjoyed success last year, winning the knockout and making the finals of the regular competition for the first time since 2021. Hillston claimed victory in that inaugural 2018 final, defeating Goolgowi in a tight 14-12 contest.In the women's historical context, the Narrandera side has been a strong force in previous knockouts, winning the 2022 iteration with a combined team alongside Rankins Springs, and finishing as runners-up last year to Barellan. Hopefully, their current lack of numbers is just a temporary setback and they'll be back on the park come round one of the regular season. The Barellan women's team has been particularly dominant recently, winning both the knockout and the premiership in the past two seasons (2023 and 2024).Many teams have already had a hit-out or two this year as they prepare for the season proper. Rankins Springs have played two trial matches, securing a 12-10 win over Forbes in the Dane Richards Memorial but going down 10-14 to West Wyalong. In women's trials, Rankins Springs fought out a 10-all draw with Ivanhoe. The Rankins Springs women's 'Hens' also competed in the Yanco 9s, where they were eventually beaten by Cobar.Goolgowi went down 10-16 to Yenda in the Billy Hale Memorial trial, with their women's side also soundly beaten by Yenda on the same day. Barellan got up 16-12 in an opposed session against Leeton. Ivanhoe's men's side competed in the Yanco 9s, losing to Griffith Black & Whites, while their women's Hens were also at the Yanco 9s before their match against Cobar. Hillston showcased excellent numbers in an in-club trial match, able to field two full sides.The day's action kicks off bright and early at the Barellan Sportsground.Proten Knockout Draw - Saturday, May 10:•10:00 am: Men’s – Barellan v Narrandera•10:40 am: Men’s – Hillston v Ivanhoe•11:20 am: Women’s – Barellan v Ivanhoe•11:50 am: Women’s – Hillston v Rankins Springs•12:20 pm: Men’s – Narrandera v Deniliquin•1:00 pm: Men’s – Barellan v Hillston•1:40 pm: Women’s – Barellan v Rankins Springs•2:10 pm: Women’s – Ivanhoe v Hillston•2:40 pm: Men’s – Deniliquin v Ivanhoe•3:20 pm: Women’s Final•3:50 pm: Women’s Presentation•4:00 pm: Men’s Final•4:40 pm: Men’s PresentationIt promises to be a big day of football at Barellan as teams vie for early-season bragging rights in the Proten Cup Knockout.

Golden Rivers Football League debuted their Perfect Team for round one of the 2025 season.Six Lions Football team seniors players featured in the team. This was unsurprising, considering their dominating win against Moulmein Swans in the opening game of the season.Joel Crocker, Tom McGufficke, Ferg Cattanach, Jack Headon, Jack Cattanach and Jacob Watson were named in the side. Premier Data takes the stats and formulates the perfect team each weeks based on these stats and performances.Joel Crocker of the Hay Lions was also named Golden Rivers Player of the week, with 204 ranking points, 49 disposals, 16 connected pos and 4 inside 50's. It is clear the Lions have come out of the gate roaring, and will be enjoying another outstanding season.

Round 3 - Big margins played out across the competition in first gradeMatch results*Hay Magpies v TLU Sharks at Hay Park #1 oval, HayLeague tag - Hay 24 defeated TLU 14Reserve grade - TLU forfeitFirst grade - Hay 50 defeated TLU 14Black & Whites v Yanco Wamoon Hawks at Solar Mad Stadium, GriffithLeague tag - Black & Whites 58 defeated Yanco 0Women’s 9s - Yanco 26 defeated Black & Whites 12Reserve grade - Black & Whites 34 defeated Yanco 10First grade - Yanco 44 defeated Black & Whites 14West Wyalong Malle Men v Griffith Waratahs at Ron Crowe Oval, West WyalongUnder 18s - West Wyalong 46 defeated Waratahs 12League tag - West Wyalong 42 defeated Waratahs 10Reserve grade - ForfeitFirst grade - Waratahs 66 defeated West Wyalong 14Yenda Blueheers v Darlington Point Colleambally Roosters at Wade Park, YendaLeague tag - DOC 16 defeated Yenda 0Reserve grade - DPC defeated Yenda 12First grade - Yenda 30 defeated DPC 28*Available scores at time of publication

The Hay Magpies produced the second major upset of the weekend in Group 20 after a 26-12 win over the Yanco-Wamoon Hawks at the Yanco Sports Ground on Sunday afternoon. The Magpies’ first victory of the season on the road came just a day after the Griffith Black and Whites shocked defending premiers DPC Roosters 40-16 in the Grand Final rematch at Coleambally. The Hawks took a narrow 6-4 lead into the sheds at half time after a bruising first half dominated by defence. Out of the break however, it was all Hay, with the Magpies scoring four tries through Ben Arandt, Anare Malanicagi, Kynan Headon and Ben Taylor to extend their lead to 26-6. A late consolation try to the Hawks improved the scoreline, but it was Hay’s day, with the Magpies recording an impressive away victory to kick-start their campaign. Hay Magpies Coach Chris Stewart said it was a massive confidence boost for the club to record an away win so early in the campaign, something that the club has struggled to do in recent seasons. “We feel like we really should have won against the Point in that game, but we let that one slip and we definitely came with a point to prove yesterday,” he said. “Yanco are a good side, which was a good challenge for us, and in the first half it was pretty hot and we dropped a lot of footy. “In the second half, we just spoke about starting strong and completing our sets, and getting in the grind. “It’s the first time we’ve had an away win, the boys said in three years, so it’s a good start.” Stewart said that despite going in behind at half time, the Magpies always backed themselves to get the job done, with the side’s fitness key to their belief. “In the first half when we were behind, we weren’t too concerned, because we backed ourselves over the distance of the game,” he said. “We’ve had a really tough preseason, so we felt like the longer the game [went] on, the deeper into the game [and] the better we’d be. “They did take the lead in the halftime, [but] we were always confident that we were going to come home strong, so it was just a matter of starting fast in the second half and finishing it from there.” In previous years, close games have not been the Magpies’ friend, something Stewart is acutely aware of given the potential finals implications later in the season. “We spoke about that, Yanco and the Black and Whites [are the sides] we’ll be fighting for a spot in the finals,” he said. “It’s very important especially to get those wins away against those sides. “Confidence wise also, we’ve been a team that’s lost for a long time, so whenever a game gets close, we find a way to lose, because losing is a habit, but we really went out and actually won that game and iced that game yesterday. “So I think that’s a big thing for the boys, learning how to close games out and win games, and we did that on the weekend.” When asked who performed the best for the side on the day, Stewart singled out three of the Magpies’ returning sons, though he was full of praise for the entire squad’s performances. “For us, Benny Arandt was awesome in his first game back, he had 25 hit-ups and played the full 80 minutes at lock,” he said. “He tore his calf [over the off-season], and unfortunately we didn’t get to see him all pre-season, but he was awesome. “Will Barnes was good, he’s been good for us all year so far, and Harley Hey was another one. “I couldn’t really fault anyone, everyone did their job, everyone played really well, [but] they were the three standouts.” The next challenge for the Magpies is converting this week’s win into consecutive victories, something that they also couldn’t do last season, in a showdown with the Tullibigeal-Lakes United Sharks, another side Stewart is wary of given their talented roster. “Lakes are a really tough side, they’re a side that we definitely would never go into [a game] writing off,” he said. “Any team with Jaden Kelly and is going to be a handful, he’s still the best half in the competition. “So it’s definitely going to be tough, they’re a tough team.” The Magpies’ clash with TLU kicks off at 2:30pm on Sunday at the Hay Park Oval.

YouTuber Riley Crowe showcases Hay and Maude fishing successRiley Crowe is a fishing enthusiast who is building a YouTube following with his laid-back style of commentary.Recently he spent time on the banks of the Murrumbidgee River at Hay (NSW), before heading downstream to camp at the village of Maude.His two-part video capturing the trip has already been viewed by thousands, sharing his fishing success during the trip, which is a boost to tourism for the riverside towns.Watch part 1 (Hay) hereWatch Part 2 (Maude) here

The second round of the 2025 Group 20 season was played over the weekend - the mercy rule was used in the Leeton v West Wyalong matchLeeton v West Wyalong Mallee Men at Leeton SportsgroundFirst grade: Leeton 62 defeated West Wyalong 0 (game stopped due to mercy rule)Reserve grade: Forfeited by West WyalongLeague Tag: Leeton 22 defeated West Wyalong 12Yanco Hawks v Hay Magpies at Yanco SportsgroundFirst grade: Hay 26 defeated Yanco 12Reserve grade: 18 all drawWomen's tackle: Hay 16 defeated Yanco 10League Tag: Hay 42 defeated Yanco 2Griffith Waratah Tigers v Yenda Blueheelers at Exies Oval, GriffithFirst grade: Waratahs 50 defeated Yenda 16Reserve grade: Waratahs 32 defeated Yenda 24League tag: Waratahs 34 defeated Yenda 6Darlington Point Coleambally (DPC) Roosters v Griffith Black & Whites, at Darlington Point SportsgroundFirst grade: Black & Whites 40 defeated DPC 16Reserve grade: DPC 28 defeated Black & Whites 22League tag: Black & Whites 38 defeated DPC 6Tullibidgeal Lakes United (TLU) had the bye.NB - Score available at time of publication.Round three draw:Hay hosts TLU Sharks at Hay ParkWest Wyalong host Griffith Waratahs at Ron Crowe OvalGriffith Black & Whites host Yanco Wamoon at Solar Mad Stadium, GriffithYenda Blueheelers host Darlington Point Coleambally at Wade Park, YendaLeeton Greens have the bye

Four Griffith athletes have qualified to attend the Hyrox World Championships this June in Chicago, USA.Andy Gamble and Bethany Carver qualified in the mixed pairs event, after qualifying in the top spot at the recent Sydney event.Tanya De Rossi and Joel Spencer will contest the women’s pairs event, after their solid showing at the recent Melbourne event.Gym-owner Andy also qualified with another athlete and will contest the men’s pairs championship as well.The team will join the top-placed athletes from across the world to contest the championships, in the fast-growing sport, and are now ramping up trainings and fundraising efforts.They will host a run day and raffles on May 17, with details to follow.There are also opportunities for corporate sponsorships, by contacting Andy on 0409 605 607.What is HYROX?Unlike traditional races or obstacle courses, HYROX events follow an identical format, where ever they are in the world. Eight exercise stations are interspersed with 1km runs. It's that simple. The standardised format ensures each race is identical, providing a level playing field for all competitors.In HYROX, participants run a total of eight kilometres broken up into 1km blocks, with each kilometre followed by a different workout station that has to be completed as fast as possible. The eight demanding workout stations include everything from rowing and sled pushing to wall balls and burpees.It's not for the faint hearted!Here's a breakdown of a HYROX race structure:• 1km run• 1,000m Ski Erg• 1km run• 50m Sled Push• 1km run• 50m Sled Pull• 1km run• 80m Burpee Broad Jumps• 1km run• 1,000m Row• 1km run• 200m Farmers Carry• 1km run• 100m Sandbag Lunges• 1km run• 75/ 100 Wall Balls