President's Report - May

Hi Onka Family,

This is the President's update for May.

As we near the mid-point of the season, we’ve had some great games of rugby and awesome events at the club.

Our juniors are looking great with solid numbers across the board and some big wins under their belts, our U12s sit undefeated at the top of the ladder and our U16s had a great run out against St Peter’s College on Wednesday night. One thing this club does well is showing up and supporting our teams and our crowds have often dwarfed the opposition even on our away games, which is incredible to see. The passion and love for our club lies behind everything we do, either on the field or behind the scenes.

And of course, we can’t overlook the huge win for our women’s team on the weekend, handing Souths their first home loss in six years! A huge effort from the women and some really positive signs for women’s rugby at Onkaparinga.

Unfortunately, our U16s and U18s have had a bit of a messy draw this year due to several opposition teams pulling out or merging, so let’s make sure we get behind them when they are playing Friday nights or away from home and give them that famous Onka support.

Another quick reminder also that passionate support is great, but we need to make sure we don’t fall to abuse, as this can have a big impact on the club and players.

Our committee has been working hard behind the scenes to keep things moving. We have finally received our coaches and committee jumpers – so this should help make us more visible around the grounds. These were delayed due to shipping issues. We also expect to receive the player polos in the next week or two - these were provided thanks to a generous donation by Mal Clarke.

We’ve had some big events at the club, with the Music Bingo last weekend and Miss Onka drawing big crowds, as well as our themed events like the Mexican night and this weekend’s music shuffle. Our social team have more lined up, so please get behind these events – including the upcoming Quiz night. These are big nights to catch up with your mates and help the club make some money for future upgrades.

I am currently working on business plan for the club, which outlines a number of upgrades we are looking into. This document will let us seek grants and investment as well as allowing the committee to identify what we want to achieve. Some of these investments include upgrading the gym, installing a shelter over the raised area and fixing up the warm-up area on the north side of the field. We’ll keep you posted as we progress with these.

We also have another big event coming up, which will help the club make some funds towards these upgrades. On the June long weekend, we will be assisting Netball SA with hosting the 2026 Country Netball Championships. We will be opening the club, bar and canteen for attendees to this event, which is expected to be around 8,000 people over the three days. If you’re keen to help, please let us know. This is set to be a huge weekend, make some good income and work towards fostering good relationships with our neighbouring clubs.

Finally, a huge welcome to our two newest club members, Danica and Kate, who have joined our Women’s team from Bayside Rugby Club in White Rock, British Columbia, Canada. They both played in the game on the weekend, with Kate scoring the winning try. Please extend them a huge welcome. We’re looking at building our relationship with Bayside and hope to be able to send some of our female players over to get some experience in Canada also.

As always, if you have any questions, concerns or suggestions please message me or talk to me at the club.

 

Round 7 - Match Report - Onkas vs Southern Suburbs

Onkas Premiers Go Down in a Back-and-Forth Game (23-41)

Onkas started with the kick-off heading north. The kick was knocked back by Liam and recovered by Louie. Big hits by Jack and Isaac pushed to the 40m and Dusty kicked deep. Onkas recovered and drew a penalty for a high tackle after several centre crashes. Dusty kicked the penalty.
Onkas 3 – Souths 0

The return kick went deep and Marios crashed it up. Dusty took the next hit and Tom kicked the ball deep, where it was returned by Souths, but came back for an Onkas scrum on the halfway. The ball spilled loose from the back of the scrum and Souths gathered it, making some centre crashes before find room on the wing to score.
Onkas 3 – Souths 5

Onkas kick-off went high and short, but Souths gathered and crashed up, hitting a solid wall of Onka defenders, before kicking deep. Tom recovered and kicked but was smothered. Both teams scrambled for the ball before a South’s knock-on in the Onkas defensive 22m. Dusty kicked deep from the scrum, leading to a lineout on the 40m and Onkas received a penalty. Another kick took the next lineout to the attacking 22m. Onkas set a maul from the line-out and then surged forward, spinning the ball to the backs and Caelan made a break up the centre before being caught 10m out. Onkas ran several pick-and-drives, before spinning wide and Dusty crossed on the wing. Conversion unsuccessful.
Onkas 8 – Souths 5

The kick-off fell to a Souths player and Souths went on the attack with a series of quick hits resulting in a knock-on on their attacking 10m. Onkas cleared the scrum and kicked out just inside their defensive 40m. Souths attacked back quickly before dropping the ball. Caelan pounced on it and made a break but was called back for offside. Souths kicked out on the 5m line, and their forwards crossed for a try.
Onkas 8 – Souths 12

The kick-off was almost recovered by Blake, but Souths took it forward. Onkas received a penalty on their attacking 40m, and Dusty kicked the ball out just inside the 22m. Onkas gathered the line-out overthrow, but Souths stole the ball at the ruck and shot it to the wing, making some good ground before being forced out just past the halfway line.

Onkas cleared the lineout to the backs and kicked. Souths recovered and pushed the ball wide but knocked on at the halfway line on the nearside wing. Dusty kicked from the scrum and Souths marked the ball inside their 22m, kicking it back. Liam recovered and made a big hit drawing a penalty. The ball was kicked out just outside the Onkas attacking 5m. Onkas formed a maul and shot the ball to Troy on the wing, who was pushed out on the line – but play moved back for an Onka penalty for Souths pulling down the maul. Marios took the ball forward into a pack of Souths, but set the ruck and Onkas picked and drove towards the line. The ball was passed to the wing and then back to the forwards as Onkas pushed towards the line and received another penalty on the 5m. Onkas chose to set a scrum and after several reset scrums pushed the ball to the backs and inside to Caelan. The ball was then sent back to the forwards, but a knock-on gave Souths the scrum and then a penalty, allowing them to clear their defence with a kick to halfway. The ball seemed to spill out of a Souths ruck for Kaedan, but the ref called playing on the ground and awarded Souths a penalty. Souths won their lineout and pushed the ball to their centres where Issac and Louie drove the attacker backward. Souths cleared and continued to attack, chipping a kick that was recovered by Tom and resulting in an Onka penalty. The kick didn’t go out, and Souths spread it along their backs before kicking deep and the ball rolled into the try-line where Tom touched it down. The goal-line dropout went high and Souths recovered, managing to slip over the line for a try.
Onkas 8 – Souths 19

Souths went back on the attack from the kick-off, finding some space in the centres before spinning it wide and the ball came back to halfway for an Onka knock-on. A souths kick was recovered by Tom and then run up by Isaac before Dusty cleared with a kick. Souths recovered and pushed wide, resulting in a Souths scrum on their attacking 22m. Onkas then gave away a penalty on the defence and Souths took the 3-point kick.
Onkas 8 – Souths 22.

The kick-off was contested, falling to Marios, who secured it. Souths knocked on in defence, resulting in an Onka scrum on their attacking 40m. Liam made a break from the back of the scrum and the forwards hit-up. Dusty kicked over the top and ball bounced off the Souths receiver’s chest and Blake put himself in the right position to regather and cross the line.
Onkas 13– Souths 22.

The South kick was regathered by Souths who kicked it deep. Tom returned the kick and was taken out after the kick. Half-time was called.

HALF TIME: Onkas 13 – South 22.

The game restarted with a Souths kick, which was knocked on and recovered by Souths. Onkas defended well for several phases before Souths managed to crash through under the posts.
Onkas 13- Souths 29

Onkas kick-off went deep and Souths returned the kick, putting it out on their defensive 40m. Marios ran around to take the ball at the front of the lineout crashing into their hooker. Onkas forwards then hit-up through Isaac and Kaelan, but the ball was knocked on in the next phase. Souths passed the ball out to the winger who knocked on. From the scrum Onkas spun the ball out to Caelan, Tom and Blake, who found space on the wing, but play was called back for a forward pass. Souths tried to clear with a kick but were penalised for offside. Dusty kicked out on the attacking 10m. Onkas formed a maul and then pushed the ball to the backs, drawing another penalty on the far side 5m. Onkas crashed to the line several times before the ball was knocked on in a ruck, and Souths received the scrum. Souths tried to run the ball, but a strong counter ruck from Isaac forced a knock-on. Onkas took the ball blind from the scrum but were forced into touch.

Souths made a break from the line, pushing forward before clearing with a kick that went out on their defensive 22m. Onkas cleared with a good lineout and hit forward with Dusty making a break to the 10m before being brought down- The ball was then spun to the wing and Marios reached over the line for the try.
Onkas 18 – Souths 29

Souths’ kick fell to Dilfy and then to the backline, but a penalty was given for holding on, resulting in a line out on Souths’ attacking 22m. Onkas almost stole the lineout but knocked it on. Souths pushed the ball to their centres and found a gap, crossing the line for a try.
Onkas 18 – Souths 36

Onkas kick went high and was contested, with Souths recovering and kicking deep. Rhys ran the ball up and Onkas went on the attack. The ball was eventually ripped by Souths, but Onkas went back for a penalty. Dusty kicked out on the attacking 40m. Onkas formed a maul from the lineout, but Souths stole the ball and attacked, making little ground against a solid Onka defence and eventually giving away a penalty for not releasing. Dusty kicked the ball out on the 5m. Souths stole the lineout and kicked downfield.  Rhys regathered and ran back to the 40m and Marios took a big pick, before the ball went out to the backs. Both sides knocked on, so a Souths scrum was set. Souths kicked deep and there was a mid-air contest that resulted in a hard hit on Blake and knock-on and Souths’ scrum on the halfway. Souths pushed the ball wide, finding some room and crashed over for a try.
Onkas 18 – Souths 41

The kick-off fell short and came back for a halfway scrum. Souths attacked for several phases before Blake intercepted on the wing. He made a break and chipped over the top. Souths returned the kick, where it was caught by Liam. He pushed the ball wide and Troy took advantage of the overlap to score on the wing.
Onkas 23 – Souths 41.

There was a double knock-on from the kick-off, resulting in an Onka scrum. Dusty kicked and Souths recovered, crashing up in the centres. Riley stole the ball at a ruck and Kaedan kicked over the top, but the ball was knocked-on when he tried to recover it. Souths kicked deep from the scrum and the return kick went out on the full, coming back for a line-out on Souths attacking 22m. Onkas stole the lineout and Jayden hit the ball up, followed by Isaac. Dusty kicked long but Souths recovered and kicked back. The ball was touched down in the try zone, so Onkas took goal line drop out. They kicked deep and Souths overthrew and the ball went out. Onkas pushed wide from the lineout, but Souths stole the ball and tried to crash up, but hit a wall of Onka defence, knocking on just before the try line. Onkas won the scrum and passed to the backs. South again stole the ball, but both sides knocked on at the try-line, resulting in a Souths scrum. Again, the Onka defence held strong drawing a penalty. Onkas took the lineout and attacked, chipping the ball, but souths recovered and countered, kicking the ball into the goal line. Onkas continued to defend and kicked the ball out on the 22m. An overthrow on the lineout fell to Kaedan and Onkas received a penalty for ruck infringement, kicking to the defensive 40m. Isaac took the ball at the front of the line-out but was tackled out for full time to be called.

FULL TIME: Onkas 23 – Souths 41

Best Player & Voucher: Kaelan Higgins

Onka Women Take Top Spot on the Ladder (29-22)

The Women’s game was always going to be huge this week, with a strong Onka Women’s team going head-to-head with last year’s premiers, Southern Suburbs.

Onkas took the kick-off, heading north. The ball was caught by Souths who pushed ahead in the forwards and wing. Onkas held strong until Souths found an overlap on the far wing. Fullback, Caitlin, put up some good defensive pressure, leading to an overthrow by Souths which went out on the halfway line. Onkas took a solid lineout and spun the ball the centres, Souths got hands on the ball, but a strong ruck by Azarita secured the ball. Kayla hit the ball up, but a loose pass in the back line fell between two players. Azarita jumped on the ball, and a strong Onkas ruck pushed souths off.  A big hit by Grace and Vron led to the ball spinning wide and Shakira making a break down the wing where she was tackled over the line.

Souths won an uncontested lineout and pushed to midfield despite some loose ball. They found some space on the wing and made a powerful run, breaking several tackles before being brought down just before the try line. The Onkas defence scrambled back, but Souths took a quick ball from the ruck and dived over the line for first points after 5min of play. Conversion was unsuccessful.
Onkas 0 – Souths 5

The kick was received by the Souths prop and then pushed out to the backs. Onkas defended well, holding souths on the 40m line until a kick gave Onkas the ball on our defensive 22m. Shakira gathered and ran around the defence back to midfield. Onkas took a quick ruck and hit-up but the ball was knocked on when they tried to push it to the backs. Souths took the ball from a collapsed scrum and found space on the wing to cross for their second score after 9min. Conversion unsuccessful.
Onkas 0 – Souths 10

The kick-off was dropped by Souths, but went backwards, but Onkas defensive pressure forced a knock-on and Onkas played advantage, setting a ruck. Charlotte took a big run, crashing to the 22m. The ball spun out to Grace who stepped the opposition and found an overlap for Caity who dived over on the wing after 11min. Conversion was unsuccessful.
Onkas 5 – Souths 10

The Souths kick fell just past the 40m, and they regathered taking a few forward hits before kicking to the far wing. Onkas drew the penalty for Souths diving over the ruck and kicked the ball out, just past their defensive 22m. Onkas pushed the ball to the backs from the lineout and Jade P kicked it deep. Souths recovered the ball on their 22m but Ashley and Jade P caught the runner. Souths passed a few flat passes out the centres, before Caity wrapped up the ball carrier. Souths cleared and made a break on the wing. Catilin’s tackle stripped the ball from the opposition and Kayla recovered, taking the ball forward. Ashley cleared with a deep kick. Souths returned with some hits while Onkas defence held strong. An injury to a Souths player delayed the game for a while but fortunately they were able to leave the field with assistance. Isabelle was yellow carded for a ruck infringement and Souths got the penalty. The penalty kick made little ground, but Souths cleared their lineout and rolled with the forwards to their attacking 40m. before attacking through the backs. Despite strong Onka defence, Souths found space through the wing and scored in the 21st minute.
Onkas 5 – Souths 15

Ashley’s kick went deep and was recovered by Souths, but Onkas defence was up fast, with a solid tackle by Shakira and a powerful ruck by Vron and Caity putting pressure on the attackers. Onkas defence held strong, so the play came back to a ruck infringement for a Souths’ penalty, leading to a lineout dead on halfway. Chantelle stole the ball at the lineout but Souths received a free kick for Onkas’ early jump. Chantelle and Kayla pulled the Souths runner down, but play was held up due to an injury to Chantelle. After she was treated and returned to play, the game came back for a Souths scrum. Souths ran a few phases of attack before knocking on. A quick hook from Souths stole the scrum and they appeared to knock-on at the back but play-on was called and Souths attacked. A strong tackle from Grace and jackal from Jade P led to an Onkas penalty for Souths not releasing the ball.

The kick went deep but didn’t go out and Souths returned with a run. Onkas swarmed the attacker and their pressure forced a knock-on. Onkas played advantage and Kayla took the ball forward followed by Ashley and Victoria. The ball then pushed out to the backs with Grace crashing up the middle. Caity picked and pushed over the top of the ruck and Onkas received a penalty on their attacking 22m for tackler not releasing. Ashley’s kick went out on the 5m line. Onkas set a maul from the lineout and drew a penalty. Ashley kicked out again and they reset the maul, driving over the tryline for Grace to score on the 30min mark.
Onkas 10 – Souths 15

Souths returning kick went deep to Ashley who passed to Grace. Grace crashed up the centre of the field and Victoria took the next hit-up.  The ball was then pushed wide to the backs, but an overthrow led to a South’s lineout. Souths tried to spin the ball wide, but it was knocked on. Grace took the ball from the back of the scrum and after several hits Onkas drew a penalty. Ashley’s kick went out on the 22m. A quick lineout pushed the ball to backs. Onkas ran several strong phases, but Souths stole the ball in a tackle and passed the far wing where the ball spilled free and was kicked deep by Onkas. Onkas stole the ball after tackling the returning runner but were penalised for diving over. Souths kicked the ball out just outside their defensive 22m. Onkas received a freekick for a not straight throw and Grace took the ball forward, passing it out the backs. Onkas looked dangerous with several strong phases but ultimately lost the ball in a ruck and then gave away a penalty. Souths tapped and kicked the ball out for half time.

HALF TIME: Onkas 10 – Souths 15

Souths started the half with a deep kick that was recovered by Kayla and taken forward. A strong counter-ruck by Souths stole the ball. Souths kicked into their 22m and Onkas knocked on. Souths played on but threw a forward pass. A strong Onkas scrum cleared the ball, and Jade P kicked the ball out just inside the 40m. Souths pushed the ball to their backs, but Onkas defence pushed them backward and stole the ball with an Ashely tackle and Jade P jackal. Onkas pushed forward and Ashley chipped the ball deep into attack, tackling the receiving player on the 5m line and getting a penalty for Souths diving over. Grace took a quick tap and dove over the line for a try. Jade P’s conversion was successful.
Onkas 17 – Souths 15

Souths kick-off went short to Vron and after a few phases Onkas drew a penalty for offside and kicked the ball out on the attacking 40m. Onkas pushed forward through Caitlin, Jade W, Danica, Kayla and Grace before drawing another penalty. Ahsley kicked out just inside the attacking 22m. The ball was pushed to the far wing for another Onka penalty and lineout on the 5m. Onkas set a maul from the lineout and Grace took the ball from the back and almost crossed the line before Onkas got another penalty and another lineout and maul. Onkas peppered the line before a knock-on turned the ball over. Souths kicked it out on the 22m, but it came off an Onka player. Souths knocked on from the back of the lineout. Onkas pushed to the backs but also knocked on. Onkas stole the ball from the scrum and passed out to the wing where Caity scored the try. Conversion unsuccessful.
Onkas 22 – Souths 15

Onkas knocked on just after the kick-off and Souths spun the ball from wing to wing, ending up a scrum on the 5m right in front of goal. Their number 8 picked from the back and crossed under the posts. The conversion levelled the scores.
Onkas 22 – Souths 22

Onkas kick-off found space and Souths eventually gathered but ran into a brick wall of blue headgears - Kayla and Chantelle. Grace stole the ball and Victoria hit the ball up and drew an Onka penalty for tackler not releasing. Ashley put the ball out just inside the attacking 22m. The ball spilled both ways in the lineout and Souths received a penalty, kicking back to the 40m. Souths shot the ball wide but a great tackle from Jade P, slowed their momentum and another big cooperative tackle by Jade W and Kayla drove the next runner back hard, spilling the ball loose. Souths recovered but the Onka defence was solid and few of the payers made it more than a couple of steps. Eventually Souths knocked on, but the game came back for an offside penalty for Souths. The kick went out on Onkas attacking 40m line. A lineout overthrow was stolen by Sophie and Onkas went back on the attack with big runs from Grace, Jade P and Caitlin. Onkas then drew a penalty for Souths playing the ball on the ground and kicked into their attacking 22m, but Souths recovered and hit back up. Olivia stole the ball from a loose ruck and Victoria crashed up followed by Heather, and Onkas drew another penalty and a yellow card for Souths for repeated infringements. Ahsley kicked the ball out on the nearside 5m, right in front of the Onkas bench.

An Onka maul made good ground but resulted in Souths knocking the ball over the line. Onkas took the lineout flicking the ball quickly out to the backline and Kate found the overlap scoring on the wing. Jade’s conversion was successful.
Onkas 29 - Burnside 22

Onkas recovered the ball from the kick-off and kicked it out of play to win the game.

FULL TIME: Onkas 29- Burnside 22

 A great result and a big welcome to our two new recruits from Canda – Kate and Danica.

Best Player:  Jade Woonton, Voucher: Victoria O’Grady


Onkas Reserves Fight Until the Last Whistle (10-53)

Onkas Reserves fought back from a slow start, looking a much stronger side in the second half, but going down to Souths 53-10.

Tries to Taylor Marangakis (2)

Best Player: Jake Moulder, Voucher: Brodie Groenland

 

Onka Third Grade Go Down in a Close Game (25-31)

Onkas Thirds started strong, scoring 15 unanswered points early in the game, but were unable to hold onto their lead, ultimately going down by 6 points in a tight game.

Tries to Phil Enalanga (2), Marc Blaxland, Nick O’Brien, Jake Grainger

Best Player: Jake Grainger, Voucher: Ennis Maaka

Round 5 - Match Report - Onkas vs Burnside

Onkas Premiers Fight Hard in Wet Conditions (5-33)

With heavy rain falling, Onkas kicked south. The Burnside receiver was caught, and pushed the ball wide, making a run up the centres. Desperate Onka defence cut the runners down, with Tom returning a kick deep. Isaac took down the returning runner and Burnside knocked-on on the wing. Dusty kicked from the scrum and Onkas forced a knock-on with a good chase. From that scrum, a maul formed and didn’t move, so Burnside received the turnover. A kick from the scrum was returned by Tom and Louie tackled the return runner. A dominant tackle by Isaac and Jayden drove Burnside’s biggest player back and forced a knock-on. Burnside drew a penalty from the scrum for Onkas pulling it down. This led to a lineout on the 22m.

The Burnside lineout maul was driven backward and Burnside made a run, with Blake making a try-saving tackle on the 5m line. Onkas received the scrum and Dusty cleared with Blake tackling the receiver out of bounds, but Burnside were given the penalty. Burnside crashed up several times, but Onkas held strong in defence, despite another penalty and lineout for Burnside. Burnside knocked on from their maul, Onkas took the scrum and Dusty cleared with the ball going out just before halfway.  After a few runs, Burnside chipped over the top, Kaedan recovered and passed to Tom and the ball was passed out wide. Troy picked from a ruck and made some ground before popping the ball to Tom. Tom ran down the wing, drawing two defenders and popped up to Dusty, who was too fast on the wing, scoring just to the side of the posts on the 13th minute. Conversion attempt was unsuccessful.

Onkas 5 – Burnside 0

The kick went deep to Marios who set the ball and Onkas attacked before being penalised for obstruction. Burnside took the lineout on the 22m. Onkas defended well but were penalised for playing on the ground. Burnside called a scrum but a strong Onka drive drew a penalty and cleared. The lineout bounced loose but Onkas recovered. A kick by Tom was smothered and the ball came back for a Burnside 22m scrum. A massive tackle by Marios drove the big Burnside runner back and Burnside tried to pass out to the backs but knocked on. Tom kicked deep from the scrum and the return went out on the full, forming an Onka lineout inside the 22m. Burnside stole the lineout and play went back and forth with kicks before Burnside put it out on the full on the 22m again. Onkas mauled from the lineout but knocked on in the backs. A Burnside overthrow put the ball out on the 22m, but Burnside drew a penalty from the lineout, clearing to halfway. Burnside made it to their 5m line before a clearing kick pushed them back to the 50m. They played wide from the lineout and kicked, but Onkas marked the ball and kicked it back to halfway. Burnside drew a penalty and kicked to the 22m and then pushed the ball to the backs. Onkas forced a turn-over and then a penalty. The ball was knocked to Burnside in the line-out but Onkas stole it in a ruck. Burnside drew another penalty at the ruck, their kick did not reach the line and Blake returned it. The receiver made a run down the wing, breaking a couple of tackles but Marios chased him down. Burnside knocked on but received a penalty for Onkas diving over the ruck. Onkas defended the hit, but a Burnside runner found a gap and crossed the line under the posts at 37min. Conversion was unsuccessful.

Onkas 5 – Burnside 5

From kick-off Burnside put in a chip kick, which Onkas recovered, but an overthrow gave them a break. Onka defence drew a penalty and a lineout on the 22m. Louie took the ball and went forward, but Onkas were driven out for half time.

HALF TIME: Onkas 5- Burnside 5

Burnside kicked south to start the half and George took the ball forward. Onkas kicked deep but out on the full – coming back to inside the 22m. Burnside mauled from the lineout and lost the ball forward. Onkas were driven back but Kaedan kicked clear. Burnside returned play up the middle and broke a few tackles to score near the wing at the 5min mark. Conversion successful.

Onkas 5 – Burnside 12

As play reset for the kick-off it was realised that Onkas had played that 5min with 14 players. After a player came on, Tom kicked. The game went back and forward with kicks, settling for a Burnside lineout on the centre line. The ball spun to the backs and Burnside found space to score on the wing after 9min. Conversion successful.

Onkas 5 – Burnside 19

A big tackle from Blake caused a turnover from kick-off, but Burnside got the penalty for not releasing. The kick went out on Onkas attacking 22m. George stole the lineout and Onkas drew a penalty and then another from the lineout. An overthrow at the lineout fell to Burnside who knocked it on. A solid Onka scrum pushed Burnside back, but an overthrow in the backs was intercepted and Burnside ran to the 22m before knocking it on. Onkas took the scrum, but their clearing kick was smothered and went dead. Play came back to an Onka penalty. A low kick didn’t go out, but the Burnside receiver knocked it on at halfway. Play went back and forth with neither team making much ground for 20 minutes before a fake lineout maul gave Burnside a break to the centres and a try after 31min. Conversion was successful.

Onkas 5 – Burnside 26

Burnside went forward on the kick and were forced back by the Onka defence, but drew a penalty for diving over, which gave them a lineout on halfway. A not straight throw gave Onkas a freekick and Cooper kicked deep. Onkas got some good attack going and fought to the 22m, earning a penalty.

Onkas took a scrum and George picked from the back. An unfortunate spilled ball turned over possession, but solid defence forced a panicked Burnside kick out inside the 22m. Onkas attacked again drawing another penalty for tackler not rolling away and crashed over the line but were held up. The drop-out went deep and was returned by Caelan. Kaedan box-kicked but Burnside slipped the ball to the wing and made a series of breaks that drew a penalty and a lineout on their attacking 22m. Onkas stole the lineout, but their kick didn’t make much ground and yielded a Burnside lineout on the 22m. Onkas stole again and kicked out again. Burnside won their third lineout and ran a few crashes, eventually breaking a tackle to score to the left of the posts. Conversion was successful.

Onkas 5 – Burnside 33

The Onka kick-off was taken by Burnside who ran a few short runs before knocking on. Onkas won the scrum but the ball went out. The lineout was not straight, and Burnside kicked out to end the game.

FULL TIME: Onkas 5 – Burnside 33

Best Player: George Hayter, Voucher: Riley Minogue

Onka Women Go Down in a Nailbiter (27-29)

The Onka Women showed that they are strong premiership contenders, despite going down in the last play of the game.

Onkas started the game kicking south. Burnside took the ball forward three times in the forwards but failed to cross the 50m line. They spun the ball to their backs and Jade P very nearly took an intercept but knocked the ball back where a teammate knocked it on. Despite a strong Onkas scrum drive, Burnside got the ball out to their backs. Again, Onkas held strong. A break on the wing was brought down by Ashley. Burnside continued their attack, but the defence stopped them from making any ground and eventually a pass put the ball out.

Onkas took a clean lineout and spun the ball out to Cheyenne who made a break before being caught just before the 22m. A loose ball pushed Onkas back, but they retained possession and continued to crash up the field. After a few forward hits, the ball spun out to the wing and back, where Victoria took a big hit up. Olivia passed a quick ball to Grace who spun it across the back line to Leah who made a break down the far wing, being brought down on the 5m line. They attacked for multiple phases and the game then went back and forth with penalties for both sides and Onkas solidly in their own attacking half but just unable to cross the line.

A break by Leah on the wing led to the ball being pushed back the centres and Jade P broke over the line for Onkas first points after 15min of play. The conversion by Ashley was successful.

Onkas 7 - Burnside 0

The Burnside return kick bounced out on the 50m line. Onkas took the lineout and spun the ball to the centres with Jade P popping an inside ball to Cheyenne.  The ball came loose a few times, but Onkas kept possession, with Victoria and Jade W making ground and Jade P kicking a long ball to an empty Burnside backfield.  Burnside just managed to beat Onkas to the ball but knocked on, leading to an Onka scrum. A solid Onka scrum led to the ball flicking out the centres and then the forwards on the outside with Jade W breaking through the pack and crashing over the line to score at 21min. Conversion was unsuccessful.

Onkas 12 - Burnside 0

Burnside put their kick-off long to the backs and it fell to Jade P who made a good run, pushing back to the 50m line. The ball came out to Chantelle, who ran up and then quickly out to the Victoria who crashed up in the midfield making some good ground. Olivia got the ball out to Catilin who broke a tackle and continued a big run up the nearside wing. Caity took the next hit and the ball was spun out to Ashley then Grace, who crashed back in. Onkas continued the attack pushing the ball to the far wing and then back in with hit-ups to Grace and Kayla. The ball was then spun out to Jade, Caity and then Cheyenne. Burnside nearly stole the ball at the ruck but a great drive by Caitlin spilled the ball for Caity to make some more ground. The ball then spun to the backs and Leah crossed for a try in the 24th minute. Conversion unsuccessful.

Onkas 17 – Burnside 0

Burnside again kicked into the backs. Onkas hit up but it was knocked on. Onkas wheeled the scrum and looked to steal the ball, but the scrum was reset. This time Burnside held firm. They popped the ball to their backs and chipped a kick over the top, recovering it and looked like they would score before a chase down tackle by Ashley caused them to spill the ball forward. Burnside put a good shove on the scrum, but the ball came out to Ashley who cleared with a kick. A great ruck almost turned the ball over, but Burnside managed to make a break down the wing and scored right on the sideline in the 30th minute. Conversion was unsuccessful.

Onkas 17 – Burnside 5

Burnside looked to pick up some momentum from the kick-off with some big hits and a run down the wing. They managed to gain an overlap in front of the Onkas dugout, but Jade P flew in with a big tackle. The Onka defence held well until a chip kick put one of the Burnside runners in for try in the 32nd minute. Conversion unsuccessful.

Onkas 17- Burnside 10

Burnside again attacked off the kick off, with a runner breaking some tackles and making it to the 5m line, where Ashley chased her down and made a try saving tackle, causing a knock-on.

HALF TIME: Onkas 17 - Burnside 10.

Burnside started the half with a short kick that was gathered by Vron. Isabelle then took a hit up, crashing into the Burnside pack, but a loose pass to the backs turned the ball over. Onkas defence held well against a few phases, before a runner made a break up the centre. Caitlin made a good tackle and the ball spilled loose to Oliva. The clearing kick nearly hit a Burnside trainer, before being knocked on by the Burnside receiver. Onkas moved the ball forward from the scrum with some good runs and were rewarded with the penalty. The tap went to Kayla who crashed forward, pushing through the Burnside defence. A missed pass in the centres turned the ball over. Play went back and forth with a few knock-ons.

From a scrum, Burnside pushed the ball to the backs and were too fast, breaking the through the Onkas defence and scoring in the 9th minute under the posts. Conversion was successful.

Onkas 17 - Burnside 17

Onkas kick-off went deep and was knocked on by the receiver. Onkas crashed the ball forward a few times before Caity made a break, reaching the 5m line. After a few hits the ball was stolen at the ruck but Onka received a penalty for not releasing and took a quick tap. A sneaky pop pass from Oliva put Jade W over the line in the 16th minute. Conversion unsuccessful.

Onkas 22 – Burnside 17

As the rain started to fall, Onkas received the kick, but Burnside received a penalty for offside and chose to take a scrum. They pushed to the wing and scored. Conversion unsuccessful.

Onkas 22 – Burnside 22

The kick-off went out. Onkas stole the lineout, drawing a penalty for high tackle. They set a maul from the line and then peppered the Burnside line drawing a few penalties until Isebelle crossed the line in the 26th minute. Conversion was unsuccessful.

Onka 27 – Burnside 22

The ball went out from kickoff and Onkas won the lineout. The game seesawed for a bit until a goal-line dropout was recovered by Burnside who managed to break the line and score on last play. The conversion was successful, giving Burnside a 2 point win.

FULL TIME: Onkas 27- Burnside 29
Best Player:  Kayla Davies. Voucher: Caity Williams


Onkas Reserves Fight Well in Wet Conditions (0-17)

In another rainy, physical game, the Onka Reserves put up a solid performance, going down to Burnside 0-17

Best Player: Jaylen Warren. Voucher: Jake Moulder

 

Onka Third Grade Win a Tough Battle Against Burnside (27-26)

In a tough, physical game, Onka’s third grade put in a solid performance with some returning Onka legend players to defeat Burnside.

Tries to Phil Enalanga (3), AJ Van Eyk and Noel Taylor and conversion to Noel Taylor.

Best Player: Philomon Enalanga. Voucher: Jake Grainger

Round 4 - Match Report - Onkas vs Brighton

Onkas Premiers Go Down in a Tough Fight (11-61)

With 20 senior male players out with injury or illness, this was always going to be a hard week for the Onka men.  They fought hard under lights at Brighton but ultimately went down in a game where the scoreboard did not accurately reflect the performance. Apologies for the lack of specific player callouts, the video quality for this game was quite poor, making it hard to pinpoint specific players and often focussed on the side-line, missing key plays.

After the minute of silence for ANZAC Day, Onkas kicked off heading north. Brighton threw some scrappy ball, and Onkas pinned them on the 10m before Brighton received a penalty for offside. The kick cleared to the 40m and Brighton spun the ball across field. Despite solid Onkas defence and some loose throws, Brighton retained possession and made a break up the middle of the field. Onkas regrouped and drew a penalty, kicking back to their attacking 40m. Several hit ups led to another penalty and a lineout on the attacking 22m. Onkas looked dangerous with some good hit-ups with the ball, but eventually the ball was kicked dead for a goal-line drop out.

Onkas recovered the ball and crashed up drawing another penalty for a hit after play. Dusty took the penalty kick but was unsuccessful, with the ball pulling to the left of the posts.

Brighton kicked the 22m dropout deep and Onkas pushed it wide, losing the ball on the wing. Brighton countered and drew a penalty for diving over the ruck. They kicked to just inside the 40m for a lineout. The Onka defence held strong against multiple hits, almost stealing the ball and forcing a turnover at the ruck.  The ball was kicked deep, but out on the full and brought back to the defensive 22m. Brighton’s throw was not straight, and Onkas kicked the free kick deep, where Brighton recovered. They managed a few breaks before managing to drive over the line for a try. The conversion was successful.

Onkas 0 – Brighton 7

Brighton caught the kick-off and set a ruck, spinning the ball wide and drawing a scrum. From the scrum they pushed the ball into the centres, looking dangerous until Kaedan took the intercept. He chipped over the defenders and the ball bounced out just outside the 22m. Brighton cleared their line-out and hit up in the backs before spinning back to the short side and then out wide. Onkas stole the ball and crashed in the centres but were called back for an Onka’s scrum for a Brighton knock-on. Onka had some big hits from Riley and Jack before a chip kick was marked by the Brighton defence, but the ball came back to an Onka Penalty for obstruction. Dusty’s penalty kick slipped just left of the posts and play came back for a 22 dropout.

Brighton caught Onkas off-guard with a regathered dribble kick that barely left the kickers foot.  Onkas made a big tackle but gave away a penalty for a late hit. Brighton took the kick and lineout and almost found some space on the 22m, before Onkas snatched a penalty and cleared. The kick was caught before crossing the line and Brighton and then Onkas both kicked back and forth before Brighton run up the centre. Onkas intercepted a loose pass, set a scrappy maul and then Riley crashed the ball up. Onkas kicked but knocked on trying to regather.

Brighton won their scrum and found some gaps on the nearside wing before being chased down on the 5m. Onkas defended well, with Isaac managing to kick a loose ball free. Brighton recovered and drew an offside penalty on the wing, kicking out on the far 5m line. They formed a maul from the line-out but were held back by Onkas. After a few phases they managed to find some space out wide to cross the line. The Conversion from almost in front was unsuccessful.

Onkas 0 – Brighton 12

Brighton recovered the kick-off but were swarmed with red and black defenders, giving up a scrum for a lost ball. From the back of the scrum, Kaedan passed to Dusty who chipped deep. Tom won the footrace and soccered the ball forward and into the path of Dusty, who scooped it up and crossed the line for a try. Dusty’s conversion was unsuccessful.

Onkas 5 – Brighton 12

Onkas made some good hits from the kick-off before kicking it deep into the back pocket, in front of the Onka dugout. Brighton recovered, spinning wide but knocked on under pressure. Onkas looked dangerous off the scrum with Tom Bray and Tom Davies making good breaks, and eventually Onkas drew a penalty on the 22m and took the shot. Troy’s kick was successful.

Onkas 8 – Brighton 12

The Brighton kick-off fell short of the 10m but bounced over and was recovered by a Brighton player who had overrun the kick. They spun the ball wide quickly and shook a few tackles to cross on the nearside wing. The conversion was successful.

Onkas 8 – Brighton 19

Onkas recovered their kick-off and drew a penalty for a high tackle. Dusty took the penalty from just in front of the Onka dugout, slotting the 3 points.

Onkas 11 – Brighton 19

Onkas caught the kick-off, kicking deep. Brighton recovered and spun wide and their prop crashed through, being caught right on the line. The ball was spun wide and Onkas were unable to stop the player from crossing. The conversion was successful.

Onkas 11 – Brighton 26

Brighton recovered the kick-off and put the ball out for half time.

HALF TIME: Onkas 11 – Brighton 26

The second half started with a Brighton kick that was caught by Riley who crashed it up. Onkas tried to spin the ball out but knocked on. Brighton passed the ball from the scrum, but Onkas dived on the loose ball. An attempt to kick was smothered and Brighton regathered, crashing up the middle. A Brighton scrum resulted and Brighton looked set to score on the wing before two try-saving tackles in a row by Blake resulted in an Onkas penalty.

Another kick from the lineout was smothered, but Kaeden recovered, spinning through a tackle and the ball was kicked out on the 40m. Brighton won their lineout but knocked on while attacking. Onkas played advantage and regathered but knocked on and an Onka scrum was called. The ball was kicked down field, but Brighton recovered making a break on the wing and pushing deep into attack, crashing over on the opposite side for a try and conversion.

Onkas 11 – Brighton 33

From the kick-off Brighton made a few crashes before slipped through after breaking a tackle in the middle and running into a crushing tackle from Tom Davies just inside the 22m. Onkas defended desperately on the line, pushing out an attempt at a diving try on the wing. Play was brought back for an offside penalty and Brighton mauled over the line for a converted try.

Onkas 11 – Brighton 40

Brighton made a big break up the middle from the kick off, but Onkas stole the ball after some solid defence. The ball was kicked and Brighton recovered and again went on the attack. Tom marked an attempted chip to the wing and kicked the ball back. Brighton ran a couple of phases and received a penalty. After some back and forth Brighton made a break and a chip kick through, but Onkas forced a knock on at the 5m defensive line. Onkas took the scrum and made a big break down the wing to the middle. Brighton recovered an Onka’s kick, slipping around the defence. Onkas regrouped but Brighton managed to find some space on the wing. Conversion was unsuccessful.

Onkas 11 – Brighton 47

Some quick ballwork from Brighton at the kickoff resulted in a forward pass and Onka penalty. The kick didn’t go out and was returned. Onkas ran a quick lineout and some centre crashes before a chip kick drew a Brighton knock-on. A solid scrum put Onkas on the attack, but the ball spilt loose from a tackle giving a Brighton runner room to run down the wing to score and the try was converted.

Onkas 11 – Brighton 54.

Brighton returned the kick-off with a kick of their own. Onkas mauled from the lineout then pushed wide and drew a penalty for offside. An Onkas lineout at the 22m gave away a free kick for baulking and Brighton hit up the middle. Onkas stripped the ball and got awarded a scrum for Brighton’s knock-on. The ball was spun to wing but a forward pass gave a Brighton scrum. Onkas drew a penalty and a fight took place with Brighton charging into the Onka’s player box. A yellow card was given to both sides. The game went back and forth for a bit, with Onkas making good ground before giving away a penalty. Brighton managed to run up the wing and score and convert on full time.

Onkas 11 – Brighton 61

Best Player: Louie Mills, Voucher: Blake Bruse-Hall

Onka Women Get Big Win over Brighton (68-0)

The Onka women continued their dominant performance, putting on a great show against the Brighton team.

After a minute of silence for ANZAC Day, Onkas started with the kick-off, heading south.  A loose ball and some good pressure from the Onka forwards forced a knock-on and early scrum. Onkas were solid in the scrum and spun the ball quickly to the backs. A couple of good runs, followed by some forward hit ups in the middle led to Cheyenne evading the opposition for Onka’s first points. Conversion was unsuccessful.

Onkas 5 - Brighton 0

 A short Brighton kick-off bounced to Vron, who took the hit and popped to Caity. A maul formed and Onkas pushed Brighton back, before the ball was sent out to Ashley who placed a perfect chip over the top. Ashley recovered her own kick, with the ball falling straight into her arms and powered down the field to the 5m line before she was finally brought down. Brighton received a penalty at the ruck and took the tap. They passed to a runner, who panicked at the oncoming defenders and kicked the ball out making very little ground. Because Brighton has taken the tap first, Onka’s got the lineout and threw quick ball to the backs where Caitlin burst over the line for a try between the posts. Ashley’s conversion was successful.

Onkas 12 – Brighton 0

A deep kick by Brighton was recovered and taken forward by Onkas but eventually Brighton received a penalty on the far wing just outside their attacking 22m. Brighton took the ball forward but hit a solid wall of Onka’s defenders and some big tackles, which drove them backward. Brighton eventually got another penalty in the same spot as the first. Despite multiple penalties, Brighton failed to cross the 22m line, continually being driven back by the Onka defence. Onkas cleared when Grace swooped on an overthrow but Onkas knocked the ball on. After the scrum, the Onka defenders swarmed a flatfooted Brighton attacking line but gave yet another penalty away for offside. Brighton’s kick did not go out and Onkas counter attacked with Ashley clearing with a kick. Onka’s stole the lineout cleanly and passed the ball out wide, before heading back in for some centre crashes. Kayla broke through for a big run and a chip kick was gathered by Brighton.  Grace flattened the return runner and a dominant Onka’s counter ruck regained the ball. A few more hits, and some fancy step work by Vron got her over the line for Onka’s next points. Conversion was unsuccessful.

Onkas 17 – Brighton 0

Vron caught the kick-off and Onkas tried to push out wide to Caitlin but were called up for a forward pass. Brighton again struggled to make ground against a solid Onka defence. Despite a penalty against them for not rolling away, Onkas pushed Brighton back forcing them out on the far side 22m. Ashley kicked the ball deep with Caitlin dragging down the returning ball runner. A solid hit by Ashley was called high and Brighton drew yet another penalty on their attacking 22m. A lazy tap and run resulted in the Brighton runner being caught by Grace and Cheyenne who drove her back a couple of meters. Onkas continued to defend eventually stealing the ball but being driven over the sideline near the 22m. Brighton threw several loose passes from the lineout under pressure from the defence. Onkas drove them back to the halfway line before Grace swooped on another loose ball, picking it up and bursting through the line, scoring between the posts. Ashley’s conversion was successful.

Onkas 24 – Brighton 0

The kick-off landed just past the 10m line and bounced back to Brighton. Onka’s defence swarmed the runner, with Ashley stealing the ball. Kayla made a big run but was penalised for holding on. Brighton picked the ball without appearing to tap it and again ran into a solid wall of red and black. Isabelle was dominant at the ruck and forced a turnover to Grace, but the ref awarded a penalty to Brighton. Brighton made a big break and looked set to score before a crushing tackle by fullback Caitlin spilled the ball. Some desperate defence saw Onkas hold off the Brighton attack and draw a penalty, clearing with a big kick downfield. Onkas crashed back to midfield. A big run by Cheyenne pushed past the halfway but next play Onkas were again penalised for not releasing. Brighton tapped but made little ground before being forced out over touch. A scrappy Onkas lineout fell to Chantelle who settled the ruck and the ball was shot out to Caitlin who stepped around most of the Brighton team to score under the posts. Ashley’s conversion was successful.

HALF TIME: Onkas 31 – Brighton 0

Onkas recovered the kickoff and crashed forward drawing a penalty. The kick bounced off a Brighton receiver and went forwards. Onkas recovered and played advantage but lost the ball at a ruck so the game came back for an Onkas scrum. Some good breaks by Caitlin and Grace drew an Onka penalty, leading to a lineout just outside the 22m. Onka spun the ball wide and then crashed up on the far wing, with some good forward work putting Grace over for a try. Conversion was unsuccessful.

Onkas 36 – Brighton 0

Ashley received the kick off and passed out to the backs. A few big hits and runs led Onkas back over the halfway and yielded a penalty. Brighton stole the lineout but play was called back for a knock-on scrum. Brighton made some ground with a run out wide, but it was mostly across the field and solid defensive pressure forced a forward pass from the tackle. Onkas cleared the scrum and the backs raced the ball forward through Cheyenne and then the forwards through Kayla. Grace made a bit hit and drew a penalty. Olivia tapped and passed to Grace who crashed through the Brighton line to score. Conversion was unsuccessful.

Onkas 41 - Brighton 0

Onkas knocked on from the kickoff and Brighton then knocked on from the scrum. Onkas drew a freekick from the scrum and raced up the farside wing making it to the 22m. Brighton stole the ball but an interception from Vron led to the ball spinning wide and Shakira scoring on the wing. Conversion was unsuccessful.

Onkas 46 – Brighton 0

A wonky bounce led to Brighton putting on a big tackle from kick-off, but Onkas settled and crashed up the middle before spinning to the backs. Some solid ruckwork and big runs gave Onkas good ground and a penalty for an illegal tackle. A knock-on in the lineout led to a scrum on the 40m. Onkas drove the scrum back, putting pressure on the halfback and the ball spilled forward. Onkas regathered and made some good breaks up the middle driving deep into the 22m. Grace proved too hard to stop, torpedoing over the line under the posts. Ashley’s conversion was successful.

Onkas 53 – Brighton 0

Ashley recovered the ball from kickoff and made some ground, and Grace and Isobelle made some big hits before the ball spun out to the backs who crashed forward making a break on the wing. Quick ball work got the ball to Grace who crashed up the middle, almost breaking through five defenders. Brighton drew a penalty and tapped quickly, racing up midfield. A good tackle by Ashley and counterruck by Caity drew an Onka penalty. Grace took a quick tap and drew an offside penalty. Ashley kicked the ball out deep inside the 22m. A clean lineout spun the ball to Cheyenne who slipped through the defence and scored under the posts. Ashely’s conversion was successful.

Onkas 60 - Brighton 0

The kickoff fell to Victoria who crashed it up, making some good ground, but Brighton slipped the ball out of the ruck. A big tackle and counterruck by Grace forced a Brighton knock-on. Ashley chipped over the top and Brighton missed the ball with Onkas regathering and running up the outside. Grace finished the scoring with a crash over the line. Conversion was unsuccessful.

Onkas 65 – Brighton 0

Best Player:  Grace Fitzsimmons. Voucher: Cheyenne Chilton


 

Onkas Reserves Put Up a Good Fight (12-71)

Onkas Reserve Grade struggled with numbers and injuries, with many C graders and U18s filling gaps in the team sheet. Despite this, they put up a solid performance and had some moments of brilliance in a fairly unbalanced game.

Tries to Dyson Mostyn (2), and conversion to Damon Whitton.

Best Player: Dyson Mostyn. Voucher: Brodie Groenland

 

Onka Third Grade Go Down to Brighton (5-88)

A depleted Third Grade struggled against an in-form Brighton Gold. There were some great phases of play, but speed at the rucks and missed tackles ultimately cost the game.

Try to Ben White and conversion to Stuart Suter.

Best Player: Philomon Enalanga. Voucher: Oscar Allen

Round 3 - Match Report - Onkas vs Woodville

Onkas Show Great Heart in a Claw Back Win (29-22)

In front of a huge crowd of past players, Onkas kicked off, heading north. They recovered the kick off but knocked on in a big tackle. Woodville won their scrum despite being pushed back and Onkas defence held solid, with Cooper ripping the ball for a turn-over. A big pick and drive drew a penalty, and Dusty put the kick out on the 22m. The Onkas line-out resulted in the ball spinning out to the nearside wing and a Woodville lineout.  After some back and forth kicking, a strong chase forced the Woodville receiver out just outside the 22m. Onkas made a break from the lineout and it looked like a Woodville player dived over the ruck off his feet, but Woodville were given the penalty for Onkas playing the ball on the ground. The kick led to a Woodville line-out at the 40m and James Shearer stripped the ball from the subsequent ball runner. Onkas peppered the Woodville defence, leading to a chip kick and an Onkas line-out on the 22m. A maul made some good ground before the ball was spun back to midfield. A knock-on led to a Woodville scrum on the 5m. Onkas drew a penalty from the scrum and Dusty kicked the three-pointer at the 11-minute mark.

Onkas 3 – Woodville 0.

The kick-off was caught by Tommy who popped the ball inside just before being bumped out of play. Onkas drew a penalty for a high tackle and kicked to just past halfway. The line-out was spun to the backs and a couple of forward hit ups. A wide pass fell loose, Woodville recovered and a fight broke out, leading to a long talk from the ref to both captains and a penalty to Onkas. The kick set a line-out on the 40m. Onkas spun the ball to the far wing and drew another penalty. Dusty kicked the ball out on the 5m line. Onkas took the line-out despite an overthrow but then gave away a penalty for offside. Woodville kicked and Troy caught the ball, running up the wing. Onkas drew another penalty for offside and again put the ball out at the 5m. A knock-on let Woodville clear to just inside the 40m. Onkas formed a maul from the line-out, making good ground and passing out wide, but Woodville drew the penalty and cleared with a kick to the 40m. The line-out was not straight but was not called up and Woodville collected it at the back of the line, pushing into centre field and getting a penalty. They took a quick tap and made a big run before giving away a penalty to the Onkas defence. The ball was kicked out just past half-way. Again, the line-out was not straight and Woodville took a tap from the free kick, crashing up several times. Onkas stole the ball, kicked clear and drew a penalty for Woodville diving over. Onkas spun the ball wide and drew a penalty. Onkas took a tap and James Shearer scored on the wing. The conversion was unsuccessful.

Onkas 8 – Woodville 0

The Woodville kick went out on the full and play returned to centre field for an Onka scrum. Onkas hit several times up the middle before a Dusty chip and solid defence pushed the Woodville player out. The line-out wasn’t straight, so Woodville got a free kick and took the hit up before chipping. Their player recovered and spun out to the wing, making some good ground.  Another chip was recovered by Blake who made a big run, but the ball was knocked-on on the wing.

Woodville took the ball forwards from their scrum and drew a penalty for hands in the ruck. The kick was put out on just outside the 5m line. Woodville recovered the loose ball from the line-out and their bigger players made several crashes before the Onka’s defence forced a goal-line dropout. Woodville recovered and crashed forward again, crossing the line for their first points. The conversion was unsuccessful. Tommy received a yellow card for intentional infringement for a tackle before the try.

Onkas 8 – Woodville 5

The kick-off went out on the full and Woodville cleared their midfield scrum. A number 8 break, and a kick put Woodville in attack again and despite solid Onka defence they managed to slip through the middle and scored under the posts. The conversion was successful. Halftime was called.

HALF TIME: Onkas 8 – Woodville 12

Woodville started the half with a kick, and Onkas were penalised for backchat. The lineout was won by Woodville but subsequently knocked-on. Onkas gave away a penalty from the scrum and Woodville took a quick tap and drew another penalty and a yellow card for Louie. Woodville kicked the penalty stretching their lead.

Onkas 8 – Woodville 15

Woodville recovered the deep kick-off and cleared, drawing a penalty for offside. They kicked the ball out on the 40m line. From the line-out they attacked midfield and then picked from the ruck, making more ground and the game was called back for an earlier offside penalty against Onkas. Woodville took the line-out just outside the 22m and made a break up the centre before spinning to the far wing. They then pushed back to centre and across to the nearside wing. Onkas defended well and forced a knock-on from a Woodville player on the tryline. Onkas were driven back in the scrum and the Woodville number 8 crashed over the line for a try. The conversion was successful.

Onkas 8 – Woodville 22

With Onkas down by 14 with 30min to go, the boys needed to lift. Woodville again looked dangerous from the kick-off, making some big runs and drawing a penalty at halfway. The kick didn’t go out and was retuned. Woodville again slipped some tackles but were brought down on the wing and Onkas received the penalty. Woodville were awarded a penalty from the lineout and Onkas were marched another 10m for backchat. Woodville kicked the ball out for a lineout. Onkas defended well, drawing a penalty for not releasing and getting some breathing space with a Dusty kick to the 40m. Woodville knocked on in the line and Onkas cleared their scrum with a Dusty kick. Onkas defence prevented the counterattack and drew a penalty and line-out on their attacking 22. They received another penalty at the lineout and kicked again, to their 5m, but knocked on in the line-out. Onkas scrum drove Woodville back, drawing a penalty and a quick tap spun the ball to the centres. Dusty dummied a pass and crashed through for a try. Dusty’s conversion was successful.

Onkas 15 – Woodville 22.

With just under 20min remaining, Tommy caught the kick-off and Onkas crashed up before Dusty cleared with a deep kick that went out just outside the 22m. Tommy stole the line-out and the ball was pushed to the backs and then crashed by the forwards but knocked-on. Woodville cleared their scrum and pushed the ball up the centre before kicking it out on the full. The line-out led to a Dusty kick. Louie stole the ball from the Woodville ruck and, after some back and forth, Woodville took the ball deep in their defensive line and kicked out on the 22m. Woodville capitalised on some scrappy ball from the line-out and drew an offside penalty, pushing Onkas back to just inside the 40m. Quick Onkas defence forced another out on the full kick and brought the ball back to the attacking 22m. Onkas drew a penalty from the line-out and pushed the ball wide before knocking on. Woodville crashed back in the centres and looked to make a break before some solid tackles slowed them and forced a knock-on and Onka scrum. The ball was spun wide and then back to the forwards with Jayden making a big break and Tommy following up. The ball was again spun wide, and Onkas received a penalty for offside. Tommy crashed the ball up, walking over the top of several players to score the try. Dusty’s conversion evened the score with 3min to go.

Onkas 22 – Woodville 22

Tommy took the ball forward from the kick-off receive and Jack and Jayden made more ground before the ball was spun to the backs and knocked on.

Woodville took the ball to the centres from the scrum and dropped it, with Louie scooping it up. A few more phases scored a penalty for Onkas and Dusty kicked the ball deep to just inside the 40m. Woodville knocked on in the line-out but Onkas played advantage.  Liam broke the line and the ball cleared to Dusty who made a big break and looked dangerous, but the ball trickled over the sideline from a pass. Woodville kicked from the line-out, making little ground. Onkas spun the ball out to the backs who made solid runs and drew a penalty. Onkas took the tap and crashed up with Louie crossing for a try for last play. Dusty’s conversion was successful.

Onkas 29 – Woodville 22

Best Player: Dusty Loffler. Voucher: Rhys Warren.


 

Onka Women Get Big Win over Woodville (58-12)

Onkas started with the kick-off, heading south. For seven phases, Onkas held Woodville on the halfway line, eventually pushing them back and forcing a kick. Onkas gathered the ball and passed wide and breaking the line, only to be called back for a forward pass. Woodville cleared their scrum, despite a big push by Onkas, but again the defence held solid, keeping Woodville pinned on the halfway until Onkas drew a penalty. A kick led to a solid lineout and Onkas went on the attack with Caitlin bursting through the line for Onka’s first try at 7 minutes. The conversion was unsuccessful, after the ball fell from the tee, leaving only enough time for a quick drop kick.

Onkas 5- Woodville 0

Vron caught the kick-off and hit hard with Victoria following with another big hit. A series of good runs drew a penalty for Onkas after Woodville played it off the ground. A deep kick put the women on the attack just outside the 5m line. A great lineout led to the ball spinning wide and Caitlin scored under the posts at the 10min mark. Ashley’s conversion was good.

Onkas 12 – Woodville 0

A knock-on from the kick-off led to a Woodville scrum on the 40m. Woodville spun it wide, but the Onkas defence held strong, driving them back. An almost-intercept led to a penalty for Woodville on the 22m in front of goal. Some great ruckwork forced a turnover. Onkas fought their way back to halfway but gave away a penalty. Woodville kicked and took a lineout, pushing the ball to centre field. A couple of big runs pushed Onkas back to the 22m and Woodville drew a penalty at the 22m for a ruck infringement, crashing over on the wing. The conversion was unsuccessful.

Onkas 12 – Woodville 5

From the kick-off, Woodville passed the ball from wing to wing but didn’t make much ground against a solid Onka’s defence. A ruck infringement gave the visitors a penalty and a lineout just past halfway.  A big hit by Jade Wooton and solid ruckwork by Grace forced a turnover. Onkas attacked for several phases before drawing a penalty and kicking it long. After a good lineout, the ball was hit up in the centres and Caitlin threw a wide pass to Leah who looked to have scored on the wing, but it was called back for an Onkas penalty on the 5m centre field. After a few good crashes, Jade scored on the wing. Conversion unsuccessful.

Onkas 17 – Woodville 5

Jade made a huge break after the kick-off, followed by Grace who crashed up the centre. The ball spilled loose and went back for an Onkas penalty on the 22m. Isabelle took a big crash up and the ball spun out wide to Caitlin who scored on the wing. Conversion was unsuccessful.

Onkas 22 – Woodville 5

A knock-on from the kick-off resulted in a Woodville scrum. A big tackle caused a loose ball, which was collected by Isabelle and Olivia. Ashley put in a chip kick and recovered after a great bounce, but a subsequent knock-on brought the game back to a Woodville scrum and then a Woodville penalty, leading to a run up the wing.  Grace made the tackle and Olivia stole the ball resulting in a wrestling match and eventually a penalty for Woodville. The kick didn’t make it out, Onkas recovered and Caitlin, Ashley, and Kayla made some big runs. Ashley spun the ball to Jade who drew the winger and passed to Cheyenne who scored. Ashley made the conversion.

HALF TIME: Onkas 29 – Woodville 5

Woodville kicked off to start the second half, and Onkas made some good ground before stepping out on the wing. Pressure from Grace on the Woodville line out almost turned the ball over but ended in a knock-on and scrum for Woodville. Woodville spun the ball to the middle where Grace ripped it and crashed up. Onkas passed out and Shakira scored on the far wing. Cailtin’s conversion was successful.

Onkas 36 – Woodville 5

Shakira recovered the kick-off and hit to midfield. Onkas passed out the backs and went wide, crashing to the halfway. An Onka’s kick almost looked to put Caitlin in the open, but she just clipped the sideline. Onkas cleaned up Woodville’s loose ball from the lineout and Ashley kicked. The ball bounced back to Caitlin. A big hit by Victoria knocked Woodville back. Onkas ran some quick ball to the wing, but it was stolen by Woodville. Caitlin recovered the Woodville kick and ran almost to the 10m. Onkas looked dangerous but gave away a penalty for offside.

Woodville claimed their lineout before kicking. Onkas then crashed back in offense, with Victoria making a break and passing to Caity who scored on the wing. Conversion unsuccessful.

Onkas 41 – Woodville 5

Off the short kick-off, Woodville recovered the ball but good ruckwork by Onkas drew a scrum for a knock-on. Onkas won the scrum and kicked. Good pressure gave Onkas back the ball and some big runs put Onkas on the attack, resulting in a scrum just inside the 22m. Some missed passes and loose balls marred a good attack, but Onkas kept pushing, drew another scrum just outside the 5m line. Quick ball to the wing, ended with Caitlin scoring in the far corner. Conversion was unsuccessful.

Onkas 46 – Woodville 5

Grace took the kick-off, but Woodville drew a penalty in the ruck and chose to run. Onkas stole the ball but turned it back over and Woodville managed to spin it out and slipped a couple of tackles to score on the wing. Conversion was successful.

Onkas 46 – Woodville 12

Onkas defended well from the kick-off, drawing a scrum for knock-on. Onkas won the scrum but knocked-on. Woodville tried to attack wide, but Onkas stole the ball and crashed up, spinning the ball back to Caity who scored on the wing. Conversion was unsuccessful.

Onkas 51 – Woodville 12

Woodville drew a penalty from the kick-off return but Ashley picked the loose ball from the kick. Kayla took the ball forward, making a good break and the ball spun to Grace and then Ashley who ran half the field to score and convert the try.

Onkas 58 – Woodville 12

Woodville kicked a grubber at the kick-off and recovered but knocked on. Ashley kicked and Woodville crashed up but solid defence from Onkas held them up and turned the ball over to end the game.

Best Player:  Caitlin Purton. Voucher: Kayla Davies


 

Onkas Reserves Hold on for the Win (31-28)

Onkas Reserve Grade got off to a great start, getting off to a healthy lead. Woodville came back strong, but Onkas held out with some desperate defence.

Tries to Ben White (3), Matt Collins, Declan Booby, and conversions to Declan Booby (3).

Best Player: Anthony Espostio. Voucher: Ben White

 

Onka Third Grade Go Down to North Torrens (19-64)

Onkas Third Grade never managed to pull their structure together in a disappointing game. A early yellow and red card to Noel Taylor, left the team with 14 players, and North Torrens capitalised on the reduced defence.

Tries to Luke Shearer, Brendan Roberts and Jake Grainger and conversions to Stuart Suter (2).

Best Player: Jake Grainger. Voucher: Lewis Waite