Miriam Vale Magpies coach Glenn Cox eyes back-to-back grand final glory

There are a few debutantes in the Miriam Vale Magpies this season but coach ‘Gonzo’ is keen for back-to-back GF success, and has named the players he believes will make all the difference in 2023.

14/03/2023 - Glenn Cox pictured here playing for the Magpies in the 2018 NDRL grand final against the South Kolan Sharks, is in his 20th straight season with the Magpies, but is a rookie coach. Picture: Brian Cassidy

Miriam Vale Magpies coach Glenn Cox has had plenty of experience in the Northern Districts Rugby League.

In his long and distinguished playing career, the Magpies stalwart racked up six NDRL grand final wins for the club in 20-straight years with the Magpies, but admits he still has a lot to learn as a coach.

"I am still a rookie when it comes to coaching," said the man better known to Magpies fans as Gonzo.

"I have plenty to learn, that’s for sure."

The Magpies defeated South Kolan Sharks 34-24 in the 2022 NDRL grand final and Cox is hoping to lead his team to back-to-back successes this season.

But with Childers-based Isis Devils returning to action in the NDRL for this campaign, Cox knows that won’t be an easy task.

"We are hoping to repeat last season’s win," the Magpies’ coach said.

"The club’s goal is definitely to make the grand final at Gary Larson Oval come August.

14/03/2023 - Ricky Noy will be a player to watch for the Miriam Vale Magpies. Picture: Image Box Sports Photography

"We have some great, young and talented players debuting for us this year and a core squad from last season with a few old heads.

"The five-team comp is exciting for the NDRL.

"It means that teams just can’t turn up to play finals football this year."

Cox has picked out five players in his Magpies squad who he feels will make the difference for Miriam Vale in their bid for a grand final victory repeat.

14/03/2023 - Jesse Wyngaards (centre) was the Magpies player of the year last season and is picture here with Maroons legends Billy Moore (left) and Gary Larson. Picture: supplied

Five players to watch

Matt Fennell - hooker

"Matt is the captain of the side and has experience to burn.

"He played in the 2005 grand final victory in his first year for the Magpies and has won four grand finals with our club since.

"Matt is tough in defence and a good runner of the ball."

Jakob Krasti - prop

"Jakob is a front-row forward who is still only young and in his fourth season of rugby league.

"He is a hard runner of the ball who can bend his back in defence and looks ready for a great year."

Jesse Wyngaards - lock forward

"Jesse was the Magpies player of the year last season.

"He is small in size but big in heart. This bloke is a mean defender who has a great work ethic and usually tops the stats for the season."

14/03/2023 - Glenn Cox pictured here playing for the Magpies in the 2018 NDRL grand final against the South Kolan Sharks, is in his 20th straight season with the Magpies, but is a rookie coach. Picture: Brian Cassidy

Ricky Noy - five-eighth

"Ricky was a Magpies junior as a kid.

"He was player of the grand final against the Sharks in 2022 and scored the try to seal the game.

"Ricky is a complete, experienced footballer who can find the try line.

"Has a big kick and can put up a spiral bomb that no fullback wants to catch."

Charles Hopf - utility

"Charles is the ultimate utility player.

"He can play anywhere in the forwards or backs.

"Charles is only young and has already been player of the year for Miriam Vale in 2021 and has also won two NDRL grand finals.

"He is a real competitor who is a coach's dream, a great trainer and can slot into any key position."