The women’s league tag side faced a determined challenge from CSU Muddogs, grinding out a hard-fought 16-12 victory against the home side at Sarvaas Park.
The match marked a special milestone for speedster Leesa Hawking, who celebrated her 50th game for the Corowa Cougars.
Since joining the club in 2022, Hawking has become a vital contributor through her pace, game awareness, and ability to create opportunities from seemingly impossible situations.
Her trademark long-range tries and defensive work rate have made her a fan favourite and respected opponent throughout the competition.
The contest proved to be a physical encounter, with both teams forced to work hard for their scoring opportunities.
The Muddogs’ defensive line was well-organised and ready to compete from the opening whistle, creating a genuine test for the visitors.
Skye Rodgers opened the scoring with a well-taken try in the fourth minute, showcasing the quick start that has become a hallmark of the team’s approach.
Sophie Lee extended the lead with her try in the 32nd minute, before Eboni Clifton sealed the victory with a crucial score in the 42nd minute.
The victory marked the start of the team’s participation in Try July, a celebration initiative where teams commemorate every try scored during the month of July, adding extra significance to each scoring play.
Kenz Winnell earned Players’ Player honours for her outstanding contribution to the victory, with Leesa Hawking named as runner-up in a fitting tribute to her milestone achievement.
Camryn Andracchio received the Coaches Award, while Bridgette Lee was recognised with the Old Boys award.
Men’s Rugby League
The men’s side delivered a commanding performance against Wodonga Wombats, securing a comprehensive 54-8 victory at Eldorado Centennial Park Reserve.
The victory was built on a foundation of attacking rugby that saw the Cougars cross for ten tries, with many coming from spectacular individual efforts that highlighted the team’s ability to create and finish scoring opportunities from anywhere on the field.
Several new faces joined the squad for the encounter, bringing fresh energy and talent to the team.
Among the newcomers was Newy Patiole, who transferred from the recently folded Wolfpack and made an immediate impact that earned him Players’ Player honours for his debut performance.
Jarrod Murray opened the scoring in the seventh minute, with tries following from Jarrod Ballhause, Blade Parker, Steven Williams, Eli Burge, Kaileb Williams, and Ratu Rayacarogo as the team built an insurmountable lead.
Steven Williams was particularly impressive with his goal-kicking, converting seven of the ten tries to complement the team’s attacking display with accurate finishing.
Newy Patiole’s Players’ Player award for his debut performance highlighted the immediate impact he made in his first appearance for the club.
JP Ugapo was named runner-up, while Steven Williams received the Old Boys award for his contribution to the victory.
Both teams continue to build momentum as they progress through the latter stages of the regular season, with these victories providing important confidence and points as the finals series approaches.
The combination of milestone celebrations and strong team performances made round 9 a particularly satisfying weekend for the Cougars faithful.
Representative football
This weekend brings the City v Country representative match, creating a bye for the regular competition.
Behind the scenes, the Cougars have been working hard in this space, with 2025 representative women’s coach Tash Johnson and assistant coach Brenden Johnson running trials and trainings despite being unavailable on the day.
They are very thankful to have the knowledgeable Bill Channells-Bentley from CSU Muddogs step up on the day.
With the women’s team named to take on the City squad in Glenrowan on July 12, the Cougars will be well represented with Bridgette Lee, Leesa Hawking, Kenz Winnell, Georgia Farrington, and Eboni Clifton all selected in the squad.
