Orange CYMS remain unbeaten after victory over Hawks

THAT’S nine.

Orange CYMS continued on their merry way throughout the 2015 Group 10 season on Saturday night, knocking off Orange Hawks 26-10 in one of the best games so far this year.

The green and golds were made to work for it, though, against a vastly improved Hawks outfit from the one that suffered a 43-10 defeat back in round one, but when Mick Sullivan’s men lifted a gear, four second-half tries put the icing on the Orange derby double for the premiership favourites.

Sullivan, who was pleased with the effort from his troops, said his side’s 16-point victory over the two blues was arguably their best performance of the season to date.

“We’re still patchy, but the second half (was our best), definitely,” he said.

“Couple of years ago (Hawks) went through and defeated us in every round game and the first semi, so it’s pleasing to get back on top of that ledger. 

“I’m pleased with the boys, it’s been a long first round. We’ve remained unbeaten and our next goal was to kick the next round off in style.”

Which they’ve done and then some.

Mixing it up to ensure the rest of the competition don’t see the competition benchmark as “predictable”, Sullivan says his move to hooker mid-way through the second half - resulting in a shift for Tim Mortimer to five-eighth, Matt Rose to halfback - would be something CYMS may continue as the year progresses.

“Morts didn’t miss a beat at pivot,” Sullivan added.

“We want to keep giving (Sam Hill) a rest too, and I’ve got a bit of experience (at hooker), even if I’m not quite as explosive as I used to be. 

“It was enjoyable to back in there and try and pick out some gaps around the ruck. Whether we stick with that or change it up, it’s to try and change our dynamic a bit ahead of the second round.”