Kurri Kurri head into the Bye 1-1.

Leading into the first-grade match, the Kurri Kurri U19's and Reserve grade sides, were humbled by Lakes United, losing 58-6 and 52- 0, respectively. 

The Kurri Kurri First Grade starting lineup ran onto the field with a point to prove.

Lakes United kicked off the affair, proving to be a very physical game early in the opening sets for each side.

Neither side gave an inch or took a backward step. There was an early break in play when
Peter Mata'utia was penalized for coming in late with a swinging arm in a tackle.

Kurri Kurri’s persistent kick pressure was paramount to their breaking the deadlock in the 11th minute with a try to Tully Wolhert.

Kurri Kurri Bulldogs Prop Forward Jack Tamburrini taking the ball up | Photo by Dynamic Sports Photography

Lakes United's frustrations got the best of them, and shortly after, Dylan Phythian was sent to the sin bin. Lakes finally hit back in the 26th minute with a try from their second rower, former Newcastle Knight Sione Mata'Utia.

Both teams went into the halftime break, tied six all.

Lakes took the lead early in the second half with a Try in the 41st minute to Fullback Ryan Potts then it was all Lakes United for the remainder of the match, putting a further five unanswered tries on Kurri Kurri. 

In the face of the loss, the Kurri Kurri side never gave up in defense and made second efforts, which provided a full 80-minute effort; the scoreboard heavily flattered Lakes United by not accurately reflecting how the game truly unfolded. 

Our GripStar player of the match is Kurri Kurri Bulldogs
Prop Forward Jack Tamburrini (pictured),
with 35 Tackles, 92% Tackle Efficiency, 8.8m per run and 10 Supporting Runs. 

I look forward to seeing more of Jack in the future Kurri Kurri First Grade Fixtures.

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