UPDATE: Junee’s resilience shone through as they secured a vital 26-16 victory against Temora at Nixon Park on Sunday, despite losing three key forwards to injuries in the first half. This win keeps their finals hopes alive in a fiercely competitive season.
Early in the match, Junee’s challenges mounted when co-coach Ben Shea and forward Jack Schubert both exited within the first ten minutes. Front rower Jaydyn Hoeta followed suit, leaving Junee scrambling for solutions. Nevertheless, their determination paid off against a Temora team that had not lost in their last six outings.
“It was definitely good to get the win in the context of our season,” said Shea. “We’re moving in the right direction, and this victory validates our improvement as a team.”
Junee took a narrow 14-10 lead into halftime. Temora made a brief comeback with a try from Hamish Starr, but Junee’s Sam Sainsbury scored twice to secure the win. The team showcased remarkable adaptability under pressure, reshuffling their lineup while relying on less experienced players like Eli Crozier and Cooper Vanzanten, both in only their second first-grade appearance.
Despite the win, Junee remains four points outside the top five, with Albury closely trailing their playoff spot. Shea expressed concern over the team’s injury situation as they prepare to face the ladder leaders, the Kangaroos, at Laurie Daley Oval this upcoming Saturday.
Meanwhile, the loss has caused Temora to drop to third place on the ladder after Gundagai’s late victory over Tumut. The Dragons will look to regroup before their upcoming Challenge Cup clash against Brothers at Equex Centre, also scheduled for Saturday.
This match not only highlights Junee’s fighting spirit but also sets the stage for an intense finish to the season, with playoff spots hanging in the balance. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as the teams prepare for their next challenges.
