UPDATE: The Molong Magpies have just achieved a historic milestone, clinching the championship title with a thrilling 22-11 victory over the Geurie Goats at the Dr Ross Recreational Field. This marks the Magpies’ first outright premiership since 2014, capping off a perfect season in dramatic fashion.
In a match filled with tension, the Magpies faced their toughest challenge yet. Down 8-5 at half-time, they encountered their first deficit of the season, with the Goats’ star player, Filisione Pauta, showcasing his skills and putting Molong on the back foot. However, the Magpies demonstrated resilience, rallying to secure the victory with late-game tries from Charlie Cooper and Dan Jackson.
The game was not just a match but a community event, drawing a large crowd to support the home team. “Oh, this is pretty special mate,” said Magpies skipper Zac White. “For a little town like us, it’s a real community event, it’s pretty special.”
Despite their earlier dominance throughout the season, the Magpies found themselves pushed to the brink by a determined Geurie side. The Goats, led by Pauta, who nearly orchestrated an upset, kept the pressure high until the final moments of the game. “They’ve been setting the standard high… I’m super proud of the boys,” Pauta remarked post-game.
The Magpies had previously showcased their prowess by defeating the Goats 50-5 in the major semi-final but struggled to find their rhythm in the grand final. With the scoreboard tight at 11-10 in the second half, tension filled the air as fans held their breath, sensing an upset was brewing.
Ultimately, the Magpies’ powerful forward pack, featuring key players like Andrew Selwood and Archie Hall, proved decisive. Their set-piece dominance laid the groundwork for a successful finish, allowing Molong to seize critical scoring opportunities that sealed their fate.
This victory not only signifies a championship win but also represents a significant achievement for a team that has faced its share of near misses in previous seasons, including a shared premiership in 2022 that left fans yearning for more.
As the celebrations began, White reflected on the journey, stating, “It’s been a while,” acknowledging the hard work and dedication that led to this moment. The win is a testament to the team’s resilience and the support of their community.
Moving forward, the Magpies will look to build on this success as they aim to defend their title next season. Fans are already buzzing with excitement, eager to see what the future holds for their champions.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as the Molong Magpies celebrate their triumphant return to glory.
