UPDATE: CYMS Fishies achieved a commanding 44-16 victory over the Orange Hawks in the Peter McDonald Premiership round 12 clash at Apex Oval on July 20, showcasing their relentless pursuit of the top spot in the league. The match featured a standout performance by substitute forward Stanley, who has quickly become a fan favorite after starting the season in the reserves.
The game kicked off with a fierce midfield battle, where early tries from Bayden Searle and Tom Toohey kept the score tied at 6-6. However, mistakes from the Hawks allowed CYMS to pull ahead, closing the first half at 16-6.
In a tactical shift during halftime, Stanley’s entry into the game proved pivotal. “We had a good look at the way we were playing,” Stanley said. “Hawks were playing with a super wide structure, and we decided to take advantage of that.” Stanley burst through the Hawks’ defense, assisting in a crucial try scored by Mitchell Cleary, who went on to complete a hat trick during the match.
As the Fishies piled on the points, additional tries from Billy Sing and Alex Bonham sealed the victory with over 20 minutes remaining, marking the fourth time this season CYMS has scored over 40 points in a match. Their aggressive style of play has solidified their position at the top of the league as they eye home finals.
Stanley reflected on his journey, stating, “I feel like I’m really just starting to fit in at the club… I don’t want to look back.” His impressive form began in round 11 against his former team, the Wellington Cowboys, where he silenced critics with a dominant performance.
Meanwhile, the Hawks’ performance was bolstered by Tom Toohey and Ryan Manning, who stood out despite the loss. The Hawks now face a tight race for the final playoff spots, with upcoming matches against Mudgee, Parkes, and Bathurst St Pats.
As CYMS prepares for their next match against the Macquarie Raiders, Stanley expressed excitement about the derby showdown. “Home finals matches would be thrilling, but we just want to win,” he stated. The Raiders recently defeated the Lithgow Workies 40-10 amidst their own challenges, setting the stage for a highly anticipated match-up next week.
Stay tuned for more updates on the Fishies as they continue their strong season and pursue a championship run!
