The Butchers took on the Illawarra Cutters at Ziems park last night in their first trial match of the 2015 season.
The Butchers ran out a new look side that was missing several first grade stars but it gave a few new players a chance to show their skill and take on some quality individuals in the opposition side.
Thirroul started off impressively and played out some completed sets before a few minor mix ups in defence saw some big fast men for the cutters set up some good tries. The Butchers look fit and once combinations are settled our side will be looking very sharp. The coaching staff would be impressed with quite a few players who are only very young with Michael Felgate impressive in his first run in first grade while Hayden Crosland and Logan Cole slotted in like seasoned grade players. Nick Braid had a solid game in his first run for the club.
Joel Ruskin and Jayden Dallalana were the try scorers for the blue and whites.
The usual performers stood out with Luke Dodge returning straight into his outstanding form last year with a stand out display in defence and attack last night. Trent Waterhouse and Luke Swain showed in the minutes they played what value they will add to the side while Ty McCarthy and Damien Blanch had solid games. New english recruit Daniel Whitmore showed glimpses of sharp attacking footy, Paul Thornton steamrolled a few poor defenders with some hard running and Aaron Beath and Joel ruskin were sold up front. Mitchell Mclean also impressed in his first hit out for Thirroul after a playing stint on the central coast.
The Butchers next trial match in next Saturday 14th March Vs Wagga at Gibson Park
S.Jarvis
7/3/15
