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The Deakin Men’s 50’s side retained their Country Championships title with a 4-2 Victory over Newcastle last weekend!

Playing on the Central Coast under COVID inspired rules including back-to-back games the side who had trained lightly in the lead up due to uncertainty of the tournament progressing began with a 3-1 win over Newcastle (2) but lost former Australian Rugby Sevens Star Michael Sykes after just 10 minutes due to a torn hamstring. In a double blow, Sykes was still reeling from the Raiders loss the previous evening.

Deakin finished Day 1 with 3 wins and close 3-2 loss to Newcastle (1) with Aaron Oshyer and Andy Malone in great form. Malone who was also carrying a hamstring injury into the tournament finishing the day with four touchdowns.    

Deakin started Day 2 in hot form, despite Souths losing the previous evening, reversing the previous days loss to Newcastle to ensure top spot on the ladder and automatic entry into a second consecutive Grand Final.

In the decider, Newcastle got off to a flyer leading 1-0 early with Deakin Levelling the game shortly after. Newcastle again took the lead before a diving Doug Witt again levelled the score. Shortly after, Deakin took the lead through Andrew Malone putting Mick Armstrong over and the left foot step of Geoff Perrin completed the win through a short side scoot to set up the weekends top try-scorer Oshyer for a fourth and final try.

There were several strong performances over the weekend from the likes of Robert Sinclair Smith, Brad Squires, Sean Harvey and Mick Armstrong.

The 50’s will now turn their attention to the NSW State Cup where they will be attempting to better last year’s narrow 1-0 semi loss to eventual premiers Manly.

Country Championships Men’s 50’s Final

Deakin 4 (Doug Witt, Aaron Oshyer, Michael Armstrong, Brad Squires)

Newcastle 2    

Player of the final: Brad Squires

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