PUSH THROUGH: Orange City prop John Gander trucks the ball forward.
ORANGE City president Steve Stone said it took more than the players’ efforts for his club to win two Central West Rugby Union premierships on Saturday.
The Lions won the first and second grade grand finals at Orange’s Pride Park.
The first grade team toppled Dubbo Kangaroos 30-16 while the second grade outfit downed Bathurst Bulldogs 20-15.
“Amazingly proud of everybody,” Stone, whose son Oliver is halfback in the first grade side, beamed.
“It takes a team effort and the club has been working hard for many years. It doesn’t just happen in one season. It’s been a tough few seasons for the guys but they believed in themselves this year and that first grade side is a pretty special side. To be undefeated all year is amazing. Great bunch of boys, good friends, I’m very proud of them.”
Stone added the second grade side’s success also played a part in the first grade premiership.
“I think the reason the first grade was successful was because of the second grade side,” he explained.
“They had pressure on them all the time. They’re a great bunch as well and they played accordingly. I think today’s second grade helped out first grade win because that win in second grade meant a lot to these guys as well.”
The Orange City colts side lost their grand final to the Roos 18-10 but Stone said the young players still put in a tremendous effort.
“Colts did really well. They came home strong in the second half of the season and they should be very proud,” he said.
“Dubbo deserved to win. They haven’t been beaten all season.”