THE Laurieton Stingrays have kept their finals hopes alive with a hard-fought 24-16 victory over an in-form South West Rocks outfit on Saturday, 9 August.
Heading into the clash knowing anything short of victory could spell the end of their finals ambitions, the Stingrays produced one of their strongest performances of the season when it mattered most.
Club president Jarryd ‘Kiwi’ Gaskin said the turnaround began at training on Tuesday night, when he challenged the playing group to take ownership of their season and play with pride in the Laurieton jersey.
“The boys knew this was a must-win game to keep our finals hopes alive,” Mr Gaskin said.
“I rallied the boys at training on Tuesday and said it was time to take ownership. I told them to look around – we’re all from Laurieton, and it was time to take pride in the jersey, the community and their teammates.
“We needed to train the house down and get ourselves back in the running for finals, and the boys really lifted.
“It was probably the best training session we’ve had all year. There were plenty of good vibes, and they carried that all the way through to game day.”
That renewed intensity was evident from the opening exchanges on Saturday, with Laurieton taking the challenge to South West Rocks and heading into the half-time break with the lead.
Despite having their noses in front, captain-coach Chris Pipes was far from satisfied and delivered a fiery halftime address as he demanded more from his side.
“Pipes still wasn’t happy with the performance and gave one of the best half-time sprays I’ve seen in a long time,” Mr Gaskin said.
“The boys knew they still had a job to do, and they dug deep in the second half.”
The Stingrays responded to the challenge, holding off South West Rocks to secure the important 24-16 victory and breathe new life into their push towards the finals.
Mr Gaskin said the scenes following the final whistle reflected just how much the result meant to the playing group.
“At full-time, the vibe and enjoyment was something that has probably been missing a bit this year,” he said.
“I’m proud of the boys. I think we’ve finally clicked at the right time of the year.”
Jy West produced a standout performance for Laurieton, earning the referee’s three points for his work rate, control and impact across the park.
Mr West was also named the Brigadoon Holiday Park Players’ Player, recognised by his teammates for his consistency, toughness and perseverance throughout the contest.
Grant Gardener received the Brigadoon Holiday Park Coach’s Award, with his defence and damaging line breaks proving crucial in helping steer the Stingrays to victory.
Both players received weekend-away cabin vouchers, courtesy of Brigadoon Holiday Park.
The Stingrays also thanked the South West Rocks committee and players for the competitive game and the hospitality shown to the travelling Laurieton contingent following the match at the South West Rocks Country Club.
“It’s always a quality trip up there – good footy, good people and a great night for all the players, families and supporters who made the trip,” Mr Gaskin said.
With their season still alive and confidence building at an important time of the year, Mr Gaskin had a simple message after the win.
“Flap your Rays – all day long.”
By Luke HADFIELD
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