The Corrimal Cougars will look to ignite their 2025 Harrigan Cup campaign this weekend as they face off Thirroul Butchers in the ‘battle of the beaches’ — a fixture loaded with local rivalry and pride.
Still searching for their first victory of the season, Cougars Head Coach Sean Tabet knows the significance of this weekend’s clash and the challenge posed by Thirroul.
“This game is crucial for us”, Tabet said.
“It’s only Round 4, but things haven’t gone the way we wanted so far. It’s almost a season-on-the-line kind of match,” he said.
The Butchers, known for their relentless style, are a team that demands respect.
“They’re a smart, well-coached team. Their halfback is a real threat — sharp. We’ve got to limit the time and space he gets.
“You must play the full 80 against Thirroul. They just don’t stop coming.”
Working Hard
Despite the rocky start to the season, Tabet remains optimistic about the road ahead. He acknowledged the pressure mounting on the ladder and the key areas the team needs to improve.
“We’ve leaked a lot of points in the past two weeks — probably more than some teams do in a whole season.
“Defence is our biggest concern right now,” Tabet said.
“We’ve had a few issues with suspensions and injuries, which has forced some big changes in key positions.
“But we’re working hard on getting our depth players up to speed.”
Next Man Up
Injuries and suspensions have forced Tabet to make major adjustments early in the season, but he’s focused on getting the next man up ready to compete.
“The big shift we’re focusing on now is mindset. We’ve got to stop dropping our heads when we concede. Reset. Stay disciplined. Stay in the game.”
More than anything, Tabet says the team needs to reset mentally and return to the basics.
“We’ve gone back to the basics. Tackling, play-the-ball pressure, winning small moments. We’ve been chasing big plays, and it hasn’t been working. So, we’re stripping it back.”
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Fresh Faces
The Cougars welcomed a host of new signings in 2025 — a fresh start for a club trying to rebuild from the ground up, and Tabet is pleased with how the new group is gelling.
“The new boys have been great. Two of our key signings are suspended now, which hurts, but the rest are turning up every week.
“The results might not show it, but we’re bonding well.”
Team culture, Tabet says, is strong, and younger players are already being integrated into the system.
“The culture is strong. The boys are close. It’s just about converting that into on-field results. We’re getting there.”
“It’s early in the season, so we haven’t had the chance to give them too much game time yet.
“But they’re training with the first graders, doing extras, learning the ropes. We’re setting the foundation”, he said.
[Watch] Corrimal interchange player Risiate Smythe chases down a towering kick from halfback Kamren Cryer to score.
Karam’s A Cougar Through and Through
One constant in the ever-changing Cougars lineup is club stalwart Jacob Karam (pictured), the only player remaining from the 2023 squad. Tabet praised his leadership and commitment to the red and green.
“Jacob’s a clubman through and through. He competes on everything, no matter the score.
“Sometimes I try to take him off for a rest, and he refuses — that’s how much he loves the club. I’m so glad he’s the one that’s still here,” Tabet said.
While Tabet only joined the Cougars in the offseason, he says the transition has been smooth, and he’s excited about building something lasting in Corrimal.
“It’s been great. The club’s historic, supportive — a place with real ambition. I’m glad I came here. I think we can build something special.”
“I coached in the Sutherland Shire — took a struggling club from the bottom to back-to-back grand finals. That’s what I’m trying to do here — rebuild and bring belief back.”
Looking ahead to this weekend’s clash against Thirroul, Tabet knows just how important a win would be for the club and his playing group.
“It would mean everything. We’ve put in so much work. A win would show the boys that what we’re doing is working.
“That we’re good enough,” he said.
Words | Angelina Raula