Jets Claw One Back From The Abyss

The Sydney Airport Jets salvaged a late 28-all draw with the Cronulla Sharks, in the opening round Premier League competition match played at Henson Park on Saturday afternoon. Gone for all money at 28-18 down with eight minutes remaining, the plucky Jets showed great character in coming from behind, with winger Alf Duncan scoring the equalising try thirty seconds from full-time. Newtown's high second half error rate nearly proved their undoing. The Jets had led 12-6 at half-time, having scored three tries to one. Coach Colin Murphy applauded his team's fightback, but declared they were their own worst enemy for eighty per cent of the game. Dr. Peter Jensen, the Anglican Archbishop of Sydney and Newtown's official number one supporter was at the match, saying he had really enjoyed the match, especially the Sydney Airport Jets' thrilling comeback. Alf Duncan (three tries and two goals), ex-Dragon Wissam El Masri (two tries) and former North Queensland Young Gun Nathan Marles were Newtown's best backs, while Chris Williams, ex-Canberra Raider Tabua Cakacaka and Aaron Trinder laid strong claims to being Newtown's best forwards.

The Sydney Airport Jets turned in a disappointing showing in the Jim Beam Cup curtain raiser, losing what was a very winnable game 23-16 to Ourimbah. Coach Darryl Neville can take some solace from the fact that there is considerable room for improvement in this side, once his squad has the chance to consolidate over the coming weeks. Newtown plays away to Manly-Warringah in the Premier League next Sunday (April 20) at Brookvale Oval, with this match due to start at 12.10 pm. In the Jim Beam Cup, Newtown hosts The Entrance at Henson Park next Saturday, April 19, with this game kicking off at 3.00 pm. The Newtown RLFC is proud to be sponsored by the Sydney Airport Corporation, the Petersham RSL Club and NTG.