Ballina Seagulls trounce Lower Clarence
Ballina Seagulls warmed up for their crucial clash next Saturday against Mullumbimby with an impressive 58-14 trouncing of Lower Clarence in Retravision Northern League at Kingsford Smith Park, Ballina, yesterday.
The Seagulls had the match wrapped up at half-time, going into the break leading 34-10.
Highlights were try-scoring trebles to centre Brenton Cochrane and second-rower Ed Killingbeck.
Hooker Andrew Battese was on target with his goal-kicking, landing eight from nine attempts.
The win maintained Ballina’s position on top of the ladder, but they must overcome Mullumbimby at Mullumbimby next Saturday if they are to win the minor premiership.
Mullumbimby shares top spot with Ballina, although the Seagulls are ahead on percentages.
In reserve grade, Lower Clarence held out a fast-finishing Ballina to win 38-36, while in Under-18s, Ballina was too strong, winning 40-4.
BALLINA 58 (Brenton Cochrane 3, Ed Killingbeck 3, Jamie Quinn, Shane O’Connor, Willie Hammond, Paul King tries; Andrew Battese 8 goals, Justin Bolt 1 goal) d LOWER CLARENCE 14 (Ben McDonald, Dan Cowling, Aaron Taylor tries; Aaron Taylor 1 goal).
