Open Boys Ready for Knights Cup

The MacKillop Saints Open Boys Rugby League team commence their 2020 Newcastle Knights Cup campaign next Wednesday at MacKillop Field against O’Loughlin Catholic College who have recently returned to the Top End school’s Rugby League circuit. The match originally scheduled for 12.30pm will now kick off after school at 3.30pm.

Open Boys coach, Mr. Matthew Sharp, when interviewed earlier today, said he was happy to announce the team that will take on OCC –

Saints Open Boys Team:

1. Stepheno George

2. Jackson Chisholm

3. Harry Hall

4. Daniel Hausler (vc)

5. Daniel Neuman

6. Beau Ryan (Open grade debut)

7. Nathan Dixon

8. Zane McConnell

9. Brandon McConnell

10. Justin Hemopo

11. Liam Kennedy

12. Mitchell Hausler

13. Jake Crawley

14. Jayden Hunter ©

15. Jade Harland

16. Ken Wirrawan

17. Keelan Edwards

18. Ryan Gleeson

19. Brandon Norris

20. Eli Bamford-Brice

Reflecting on the team list, Coach Sharp was proud to boast that it is likely the strongest team the Saints have been able to assemble in some time and that he looks forward to taking on an opposition that will be equally as strong and up for the challenge. Sharp went on to add –

‘In O’Loughlin, we face a historically sturdy opposition that could bring any situation to the match. We haven’t seen them involved in Rugby League for a few years but a look back over the history books shows us that they have been really successful in the past and I expect that they will be up for the challenge and looking to come to MacKillop fielding a strong and well drilled team’.

Beau Ryan has been selected from the juniors to play in the number 6 jersey in the cup tie. It will be a big challenge for the speedy half, but the Northern Territory representative player is looking forward to testing himself against more seasoned veterans. Ryan enters an exclusive club of debutants, following in the footsteps of former Saint, Alister Lasker, to debut for the Opens from the junior ranks.

Another interesting combination will be the McConnell brothers, Zane and his younger sibling, Brandon, who will be playing together for the first time.

Perhaps the most intriguing question mark surrounding the match is which jersey interim Deputy Principal – Jason Tutty, will be wearing during the match. Mr. Tutty joined MacKillop from O’Loughlin to relieve Saints patriarch, Mr. Michael Graham, whilst he is enjoying a well-deserved break on leave. Mr. Tutty is certain to cop plenty of banter from both sides come game time.

Squad players not named in the above are encouraged to check in with Mr. Sharp tomorrow if they are interested in playing in the match.

April O’Neil – Reporting correspondent