NRRRL Round 2 Recap: Drama, Draws, and Dominant Displays
The Northern Rivers Rugby League (NRRRL) burst back into action over the weekend with a thrilling round of matches that had fans on the edge of their seats. From send-offs to big hits, intercept tries, and last-minute conversions, the opening round had it all.
One of the standout games of the weekend was the clash between Casino and Mullumbimby, which ended in a dramatic 30-all draw. The match had everything a rugby league fan could ask for, with both teams going toe-to-toe in a high-scoring affair. Casino’s Waylon Caldwell stole the show with a length-of-the-field intercept try, followed by a nerve-wracking conversion after the final bell by Eddie Walker-Williams to level the scores.
The game was a rollercoaster of emotions, with Mullumbimby looking set for victory before Casino’s late heroics. Mullumbimby winger Mason Davies scored a hat-trick, but it was Casino’s never-say-die attitude that saw them snatch a draw from the jaws of defeat.
In another exciting matchup, Ballina managed to edge out Marist Brothers in a hard-fought 22-18 victory. Ballina’s early dominance was met with a resilient fightback from Marist Brothers, but the Seagulls held on for a narrow win.
Byron Bay also got their season off to a strong start with a 24-14 win over Murwillumbah, thanks in part to a standout performance from Jesse Beauchamp off the bench. Despite a slow start, Byron Bay’s new halves pairing of Toby Marks and Jack Rogers impressed in their victory.
Lastly, Evans Head made a statement with a gutsy 22-12 win over Bilambil, overcoming early injuries and a deficit to secure the victory. The Bombers showed resilience and determination to come back from a 12-0 deficit and keep Bilambil scoreless in the second half.
Overall, the opening round of the NRRRL provided plenty of excitement and drama, setting the stage for what promises to be a thrilling season ahead. Fans can look forward to more nail-biting matches and standout performances as the competition heats up.