Bears stay in the race with win
against Manly

The dazzling talent of the Bears Harold Matthews threw the monkey off their collective backs on Saturday as they courageously fought down to the wire against the Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles. Players Player Lamarn Maa was not only effective but also relentless in defence putting in a huge effort.

John Davis again played well showing strength and stamina well beyond his size. We witnessed a great performance from lock Brendan Randall and another thrilling performance from star fullback Brad Horder scoring 3 tries on the day. Notable performances too from Francesco Frustaci and Lawrence Bidois who put some great hits on the Manly attack.

Coach Steve Sullivan claimed "We showed great courage to comeback from a 14-12 score at half time. We had Manly's measure in defence allowing us to spread the ball out wide for the backline to work their magic". The Coach was very impressed with Lamarn Maa, John Davis and Brad Horder. Praise too from S.G. Ball coach Greg Richardson who made special mention of Brad Horder, Mitch Pearce and Brendan Randall. Next week sees a bye for the Harold Matts team.

Jersey Flegg

Coach Gavin Catanach's Flegg boys returned form in a win infront of a big crowd at Penrith Stadium pror to the Panthers V Storm first grade match.

With a 10-6 lead at half time the Bears carried on with the task at hand winning 14-12. Read Coach Catanach's full run down on the match in the Coaches Reports Section. The Flegg team next plays on Friday night at home against Parramatta.

North Sydney 14 (O Saunders, L Cameron, D Chiha tries R Watson goal) defeated Penrith 12 (J Marleitner, M Carl tries M Forwood 2 goals)

Premier League

In the Premier League the boys came up against the St Marys-Penrith Cougars who turned up ready to play hard footy. Having to work twice as hard in defence the Bears toughed out a 3 to 1 try first half, but were very much exposed in defence in the second. The come back came but was not strong enough; the match finishing 32-24. The courageous and gutsy Bears fullback John Russell (pictured) was outstanding with an unrelenting physical performance, not only making good runs and working hard in cover defence, but also taking on the Cougars up front. Melbourne Storm player Jeramiah Pai also had a good game. Next week the Bears are at home on Friday night against the top of the table Parramatta Eels.

St Marys Penrith 32 (L Dyer 2, L Cross, S Haumono, L Wrigley, M Gordon tries M Gordon 4 goals) defeated North Sydney 24 (C Tuatara, L Salanoa, J Feeney, B Ngawini tries A Heremaia 4 goals)

S.G. Ball

In a classic game of two halves the Bears S. G. Ball team performed a virtually mistake free 1st half, including a well executed try instigated by captain Liam Foran. In the second half Manly ran away with the match, with the final score 46 16. Coach Greg Richardson felt Alan Saba was a standout. No doubt the team will be looking forward to their final match of the season against the Cronulla Sharks in the final round of the season.

For more information on the Mighty Bears get to http://www.northsydneybears.com.au