BREAKING: In a heart-stopping showdown at Yanco Sportsground, the Hay Magpies defeated the Leeton Greens 28-24 in extra time, eliminating Leeton from the finals and securing their place in the preliminary final. This dramatic Group 20 Minor Semi Final unfolded as both teams battled fiercely, knowing the stakes were high—victory meant continuing the season, while defeat signaled the end.
The match began with intensity as the Magpies quickly applied pressure. Brad Pocock broke through the Greens’ defense, setting up Hugh Crighton for the opening try. Leeton responded swiftly; a powerful run from Jesse Watson led to Todd Prest scoring, marking a back-and-forth contest with Leeton leading 12-6 after a second try from Prest and a penalty goal from James Tafiti.
As the second half unfolded, the Magpies rallied, with Kynan Headon scoring shortly after a strong run from Jeremaia Nakete. However, a critical error following the try allowed Billy Dickinson to score for Leeton, restoring their lead. The tension escalated further as both teams struggled to maintain possession, culminating in a 24-all tie with nine minutes remaining.
Leeton faced additional setbacks with injuries to key players Shanon Bradbrook and Rhys Wilesmith, adding to the team’s woes. As the game progressed into extra time, neither team could score until the second half of extra time, when Pocock’s brilliant play led to the game-winning try by Patty Miller.
After the match, Leeton captain Dickinson expressed the agony of defeat. “We talked before the game about not being done yet,” he said, reflecting on the lost opportunities and the team’s season-long struggle with discipline. “Errors and poor penalties made it hard to swing the tide our way.”
This loss marks a disappointing end for the Greens, who will now turn their attention to preparations for the 2026 season. Meanwhile, the Magpies will advance to face new challenges in the preliminary final, riding high on their stunning victory.
Stay tuned for updates as the Magpies prepare for their next challenge in this thrilling finals series.
