Another year, another top day, another big crowd, and unfortunately, another loss for the Magpies. Yes, the annual Matthew Locke Charity Match day has come and gone and organiser Debbie Locke said she was extremely grateful for the support.
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The main event began with the Army band marching onto the field followed by River’s stirring Welcome to Country in Gumbaingirr that amazed. Bugler Rick played the Last Post, the Cross sisters sang the National Anthem accompanied by the Army band, Magpies president, Glydie, forgot to introduce the Governor of NSW, David Hurley and his wife Linda, then it was time for the big one, The Magpies and the Army Thunder.
Former National Rugby League (NRL) players Michael Crocker and Steve Turner were this year’s ambassadors who agreed to help the Magpies. Mick lasted a little while but Steve was able to show his skill for almost the whole game. New players enticed to the club by super efficient recruitment officer Maurie Hulbert - Ben Vunivalu, Tomasi Vunivalu, Alburt Bakani, captain-coach Villiame Tukana and Mula Malakaituiloa (ground announcer Peter Lawrence says he will have no hope in announcing their names) - all showed they will be welcome additions. Several of them are still after jobs so if you have something on offer contact the club. Mula is a qualified mechanic and has experience in the construction industry.
In the game, dominance ebbed back and forth between the teams but costly errors were the downfall of the Magpies.
The Thunder scored first but the Magpies hit back with a good Brenton Thomas try. The scoreline remained at 6-all for a long period of time before the Thunder was able to cross again. Luke Rose then scored a good dummy half try off Michael Crocker for the Magpies to equalise after another successful conversion by Luke Beaumont.
Half time came at a bad time for the Magpies as they had been on top for a long period but were unable to break the Thunder defensive line. After the break the Thunder scored two quick tries to go ahead 26-12.
Not to be denied Magpie Under 18 Jack Mitchell scored in the corner off a great Steve Turner pass to take the home side to 16-26. But right on full time, the Army scored to win 32-16.
The day began with two games between the North Coast and the Northern Rivers Academy teams in U16s and U17s. The skills shown in both these age groups showed that the game of rugby league continues to produce talent. Dan Lavender and Jedd Mitchell, who played last year with the Magpie U18s, both had strong games in the U17s.
Macksville and Bellingen U18s then put on an entertaining game. The Magpies have had a question mark over their numbers for some time but through the hard work and enthusiasm of coach Peter Glyde and several of his players, 15 determined young men turned out to really put it to the bigger and more experienced Macksville team.
Lee Tuhi, Zac Salem, Jake McTeg, Griffin Mears, Charlie Sheridan, Jarryd Edwards, Tom Moran, Jake Tuhi, Lachlan Alexander, Mason Fields, Zane Craggs, Darcy Warwick, Jack Mitchell, Brad Smith and Ryan Masters all showed that they will be competitive this year and any extra numbers are welcome to boost this team. No doubt they will have the most vocal supporters.
Macksville then played the Lower Clarence Magpies in a first grade trial that showed both should have a competitive season in their respective Groups. Macksville liked the concept so much they said they would continue to support the carnival for as long as it may run.
If you missed the day you missed a good one with The Grub Club, Mates 4 Mates, local sporting groups and the game of rugby league being the winners.
