The grand final against Richmond Range Rugby Club was played at a cracking pace which has been a highlight of every game been played against them during the season. 

The Buccaneers had a chance to score in the opening minutes down the left wing, but the bell went into touch. 

From then on, the Buccs had to defend solidly against the well drilled Range outfit headed by captain/coach Alex Gibbons. 

The tackling from both sides was ferocious for most of the game which resulted in a number off yellow cards handed out and Yamba players were bewildered at a number of inconsistent refereeing decisions which seemed to upset their momentum at times.

Possibly the best player on the paddock was young No 6 Tama Williamson who was everywhere in defence and also made some valuable ground in attack resulting in Yamba’s only try.

Other players to impress were prop Cody Walker, No 8 Robert Tierney and sometimes halfback and Captain, Chris Williams.

Yamba backline seemed to lack penetration & were too flat in attack so were easy pickings for the Range tireless defence. 

All in all, a fantastic season for the senior men’s team who had great depth with over 30 players to choose from throughout the season and players such as Beau Birch, Nathan Hollis, Christian Whittaker, Dan Frogan, Cody O’Neill and Joel Imeson playing a consistently high level of rugby and as well, stalwart Robbie Hill came back from a serous ankle injury suffered last season. 

Inside centre Nathan Hollis won the FNCRU award for the highest point scorer in the Presidents Cup competition with 104.

Home games were were very well supported with huge crowds and this was evidenced by the great supporter base which took their own bus to Lyle Park for the grand final. 

On top of that, the Club filled five junior teams with the Under 16’s narrowly defeated in their grand final on Friday night 19-17 against Lennox Head.

The future is looking very bright for the Buccaneers with the club hosting the NSW Country Under 12’s & 13’s Junior Championships next weekend with six Junior Buccaneers taking the field.

The Buccaneers Senior Presentation Night will be held at the Yamba Shores Tavern on Saturday September 16 at a cost of $20 which includes a meal.

Graham Mackie