Illawarra Rugby League’s flagship open women’s team, Corrimal Cougars, ran out 52-8 winners over Penshurst RSL on Saturday to move into 3rd place on the ladder in the inaugural Southern Corridor Open Women’s competition, which includes 10 teams from the Illawarra, Sutherland Shire, and Group 7 competitions.
The Cougars have fared well, winning seven of their eight games this season, conceding fewer points than any other outfit in the competition. Their only stumble was a 6-4 loss to ladder-leaders Milton-Ulladulla in Round 8.
Cougars veteran Tammy Fletcher says the team has developed well and is ready to charge into the business end of the season, setting their sights on a top-two finish with only four rounds remaining.
“It was pretty exciting news hearing that we were going to have a Southern Corridor competition this year,” Fletcher says.
“There was a little bit of stop-start at the beginning, but we’re past halfway now, and it’s full steam ahead.
“There’s a big difference between experienced and learning players, so by giving the newer girls that experience of regular games every weekend, we’re developing some good skills.”
Corrimal will host Riverwood Legion on Saturday following the Cougars Mojo Homes Illawarra Cup match against Collegians, which will kick off at 4:30pm.
Elsewhere, the first-ever Mt Kembla women’s team has yet to record a win through nine rounds and has been brave throughout a challenging season. The Lowries will be targeting a win over winless Nowra-Bomaderry this weekend.
Competition Ladder>>https://bit.ly/3pKpBCZ
In the Under 18’s, both Illawarra sides are in Finals contention with Collegians (2nd) and the Cougars (4th). In a possible finals prelude, Collies are away to Cronulla-Caringbah (3rd), who they defeated 18-12 in Round 5 at home.
The Cougars host Stingrays (1), who will be buoyed by a 38-0 win over the Kingsgrove Colts.
Competition Ladder>>https://bit.ly/3DaAnFS
Words | Russ Haylock