Country League Side Shocks Sydney

Press, Volume CIX, Issue 31985, 12 May 1969, Page 16

Country League Side Shocks Sydney

(N.Z. Brass Association) SYDNEY. Sydney’s teem of Rugby league stars received a rude shock before eventually overpowering a determined Country team in their annual match at the Sydney Cricket Ground on Saturday. The Sydney team, loaded with Internationals, won the match 27-20, but looked In grave danger of defeat when the score* were level at 20-all only (even minutes from full-time. Sydney had led 12-7 at halftime after two great tries by the wing, U: Cleary, who added another In the second half to ensure his selection In the New South Wales team to play Queensland In Brisbane next weak.

But the honours of the day went to Country's footballing grlest from Newcastle, J. notes, who scored 18 of bls

team’* point* with two tries and flvs goal*. Father Coote* began the match nervously and his early goal-kicking attempt* were off target, including two easy shots that rebounded from the posts. But once ha settled down, he gave a highly Impressive performance, snatching an intercept to score Country’s first try just before half-time. Later he crossed for one of the most memorable tries seen at the Sydney Cricket Ground in year*. with Sydney leading 20-13 and only 15 minute* remaining, the Country full-back. G. Collins, broke away deep Inside his own territory and headed toward* the right wing whore he linked up with Father Cootas. The Newcastle priest slipped a clever pass to the right wing, D. Pascoe, and then backed up inside for a return -pas* to streak away from a gasping Sydney defence to score between the posts.