A brave Illawarra Steelers outfit went down narrowly to Newcastle in the UNE Harold Matthews Cup, defeated 26-20 by the Knights at Cessnock Sports Ground on Saturday.
The hosts put on five tries in 38 minutes before a spirited fightback by the Steelers, scoring three tries late in the second half.
Despite the late charge the home side held on for a six-point victory. The Steelers face a must-win game against the Magpies in Rd9 to remain in the contention for the finals.
The Steelers SG Ball side moved into 7th place on the ladder after defeating the Knights 28-12. Junior Amone and Cooper Roberts both picking up doubles in the five tries to two win.
Meanwhile, the previously undefeated Steelers Tarsha Gale Cup side were beaten 28-0 by the hosts in the much-anticipated top of the table clash. Despite the loss Alicia-Kate Hawke’s side hold down second place on the ladder heading into the final round.
Round 9 – Fixtures and Team Lists
Harvey Norman Tarsha Gale Cup – Illawarra Steelers v Tigers – 10am – Collegians Sporting Complex
Team Lists: https://www.nswrl.com.au/draw/harvey-norman-tarsha-gale-cup/2021/round-9/steelers-v-wests-tigers/
UNE Harold Matthews Cup – Illawarra Steelers v Magpies – 11.30am – Collegians Sporting Complex
Team Lists: https://www.nswrl.com.au/draw/harold-matthews-cup/2021/round-9/steelers-v-magpies/
UNE SG Ball Cup – Illawarra Steelers v Magpies – 1pm – Collegians Sporting Complex
Team Lists: https://www.nswrl.com.au/draw/sg-ball-cup/2021/round-9/steelers-v-magpies/
