Sydney Airport
Jets hang on in thriller against Roosters

The Sydney Airport Jets upset the VB Premier League competition leaders the Sydney Roosters 22-20 in a drama-packed match played at Henson Park on Saturday. The Roosters led 14-8 at half-time and by 20-8 midway through the second half, but then Newtown drew level with two converted tries in quick succession. A penalty goal by acting captain David Hall six minutes from full-time gave the Jets a two-point lead that they clung to determinedly until the final siren.

This was a fast-paced and absorbing game, with the raucous Newtown home crowd adding to the thrilling atmosphere in the tense final minutes. Sydney Airport Jets skipper David Hall, deputising for the suspended Craig Field, had a splendid game, and received strong support from veteran five-eighth Troy Barnes. Winger Ben Cook, who switched to fullback for the second half, was quite outstanding. His pursuit and "ball and all" tackle in the second half of Roosters winger Todd Byrne was breathtaking, and on another occasion his timely intercept prevented a certain try for the Roosters. Cook and fellow winger John Sinisa, who scored three tries, also figured in two critical try-saving tackles literally in the final seconds of play.

Newtown forwards Tommy Gemmell, Phillip Leuluai, Billy Najjarin, James Stosic, Danny Manousso and Peter Howie all played a big part in Newtown's second half fightback, and they clearly outpointed the opposition's full-time professional pack.

It wasn't such a good news day for Newtown in the Jim Beam Cup match against Cabramatta. The Jets simply did not turn up to play, and were handed a thorough trouncing to the tune of 74-16. Forwards Lee Trasler, David Vial and Nelson Lomi and centre Damien O'Malveney battled on gamely in a badly beaten team.

Up in Group 11, the Parkes Spacemen made the long road trip to Nyngan and claimed wins in all three grades, including an exciting 36-22 victory in the main game.

The Sydney Airport Jets are back again at Henson Park this coming Saturday (August 7), when they meet Parramatta in the VB Premier League at 3.00pm. This will be another vital game for the Jets as they pursue a place in the finals. Newtown plays Windsor in the Jim Beam Cup curtain-raiser starting at 1.15pm.