Wyong go down to Asquith

Asquith Magpies won through to the next round of the NSWRL Challenge Cup with a 20 to 12 win over Wyong Roos at Cessnock Sportsground.

Playing four quarter footy, the first term belonged to the Roos although it was all Asquith early with Epa Navale coming close to scoring in the corner after 5 minutes. However, Wyong took control and the Magpies were on the backfoot with quick play the balls, gaining big metres up the middle. The pressure became too much for the Magpies and Jesse Martin was sent to the sinbin for holding too long in the tackle. Wyong took advantage of the extra man when Isaac Akuoko crossed out wide. Lachlan Haneghan added the extras for a 6 nil lead.

An arm wrestle would best describe the second quarter with Asquith just winning on points. Both sides went close to scoring with some good desperate defence on display. Asquith broke through just before half time when Nicholas O’Meley dived over out wide to reduce the margin to 2 points.

The Magpies kicked into gear with back to back tries within a minute to take the third quarter. Jordan Remfrey was the recipient of a quick play the ball and dived over near the posts. Two plays after the restart the Magpies were in again. Ray Lesoa made a break on the left edge and found Peter Ney in support. Maneia Rudolph converted both tries and Asquith led 16-6. Wyong got one back just before the third quarter break with Jake Scicluna scoring out wide. Haneghan again added the extras to reduce the margin to 4 points.

It was any one’s game in the final quarter. The Roos had several chances but just couldn’t find a way over the line. Ney almost picked up his second out of dummy half but was held up. The Magpies didn’t have to wait long however, scoring from the next play with Ben Gleeson barging his way over. With less than 10 minutes on the clock, Wyong still had time. Again, they were in good field position, but they got the fumbles. Time than became Wyong’s biggest enemy. Asquith’s defence held tight for the remainder of the match to secure a 20-12 victory. The result will give the Magpies plenty of confidence heading into the next round.