“The best way you can describe it was as a wonderful success,” Group 16 chairman Allan Wilton said. 

“Obviously we were a little bit apprehensive, when starting a new concept and new competition.

“That was soon put to bed when you saw the teams turn up and how they went about it.” 

Hosted by Bombala, about 200 players turned up for the round of rugby league on Saturday, November 3.

In the under 14s, Cooma and Bega drew 10 all, Narooma defeated Merimbula-Pambula with 26-6 and Cooma beat Bombala with 24-nil. 

Cooma Colts defeated Bega 20-8 in the under 17s, while Bombala beat Narooma 16-4. 

In the opens, Bega prevailed over Candelo Bemboka 12-10 while Narooma defeated Tathra 16-4. 

Wilton congratulated all the players for the way they performed during the round. 

“The women were all enthusiastic; nervous but excited,” he said.

“They showed no fear and there was a lot of heavy contact in the game.”  

Wilton said there was a “lot of talented players” and the “standard of the game was very good”. 

“Group 16, we’re a smaller group by comparison to some of the other country groups, but there was no shortage of commitment,” he said. 

But he made special mention of the Narooma open side, saying the 18-member team “showed a lot of ability”. 

He said “full marks” went to the Bombala club for hosting the match and ensuring it ran smoothly. 

The next game for the series will take place in Narooma on Saturday, November 10, which will be followed by a round in Bega on November 17.