Brothers beat Ballina in rugby league season opener
Marist Brothers had to fight hard to overcome Ballina Seagulls 32-24 in the opening round of the Northern Rivers Regional Rugby League season at Kingsford Smith Park, Ballina, yesterday.
After skipping away to a 12-0 lead, Brothers saw their advantage slip and they trailed 14-12 just before half-time. However, a try near the break saw Brothers go into half-time leading 16-14.
Ballina hit back in the second half to lead 20-16, then Brothers scored to lead 22-20. The Rams skipped away to lead 28-20, but a Ballina try saw the deficit reduced to 28-24.
Two late tries sealed the win for Brothers, who went into the match under-strength, with key players such as Graham Smallwood unavailable through injury.
Ballina were their own worst enemy, conceding possession through basic errors when in positions to pressure Brothers.
There were some positive signs, though, for the home side. They unveiled a potent attacking weapon in fullback Brenton Cochrane, having his first match for the club.
Dylan Montgomery was strong in the front-row to lead the way in the forwards.
In the minor grades, Ballina won reserves 42-24, and the Under-18s turned in a barnstoming finish to win 28-26 after trailing by eight with less than 10 minutes remaining.
