Brave Jets
take Dragons to the wire

The Sydney Airport Jets might have lost 26-14 to St. George-Illawarra in the VB Premier League match played at Henson Park on Saturday, but they won plenty of admirers for this gutsy display. This match was a tough, physical encounter of a type rarely seen under modern Rugby League rules. The Dragons led 16-14 at the break after a fiercely contested first half, with both teams having scored three tries. Newtown's second half defensive effort was outstanding, but missed scoring opportunities and the inability to complete their sets of possession cost the Jets dearly in the end. Regardless of their errors, Newtown was in this game right to the death, with the Dragons' final winning margin being extended by a converted try in the last minute of play. Craig Field was once again Newtown's stand-out performer, and he is starting to form some good combinations with his new team mates. Former St. George junior representatives David Hall and Adam Bennett both had strong games against their old club. Tommy Gemmell, Troy Barnes and Chris Williams were among Newtown's best forwards, while tough Bill Najjarin was totally in his element in the rugged going. In VB Premier League action next weekend, the Sydney Airport Jets travel to Campbelltown to take on the Western Suburbs Magpies on Sunday, April 4, at 3pm. Newtown is at home to Ourimbah in the Jim Beam Cup at Henson Park on Saturday, April 3, with this match due to start at 3pm.