MICK Sullivan’s premier league outfit probably didn’t experience the Bathurst Knockout campaign most predicted, but the Orange CYMS club didn’t leave the pre-season tournament empty handed.
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Capping a perfect defensive display over three games, the green and golds’ first division side didn’t concede a point over the course of the knockout and eventually claimed the $1000-to-the-winner grand final 12-nil over Blayney.
CYMS first division coach Luke Morris was rapt with the victory, adding if his side’s defence holds up throughout 2014 last weekend’s knockout success won’t be the side’s only triumph this season.
“I think if you can defend well it’ll hold you in good stead in any reserve grade competition,” Morris said.
“I think we’ll have a few guys get a first grade call up out of it but I was really pleased with our defence.”
Drawn a round one bye, CYMS defeated Orange Hawks 20-nil in their first clash before accounting for Wallerawang 22-nil to be the best placed first division side after the completion of the pool rounds.
Up against a determined Blayney Bears in the final, Morris said both teams’ lines held strong.
But, after being locked at nil-all after the first half, CYMS’ attack clicked into gear to score two unanswered tries and claim this year’s first division pre-season trophy.
Praising forwards Nick Law and Aaron Willis, Morris was pleased with the effort of his entire side.
“Everyone performed,” he said.
“It’s really tough to single anyone out. We’ve trained as a club and everyone knew the calls, but to defend that well, I’m pretty happy with that.”