Teams in strong position to challenge for finals berth

St Marys Rugby League Club is shaping up to be a tough competitor in the lead-up to the finals .

St Marys Sydney Shield side take on the Hills District Bulls.

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ST MARYS Rugby League Club is shaping up to be a tough competitor in the lead-up to the finals next month.

Both the club’s Sydney Shield and Ron Massey Cup teams are set to finish in the top four, leaving them in the perfect position for finals football.

With three club games until the finals, the Sydney Shield side is sitting in third place and the Ron Massey team in fourth.

St Marys manager Adam Przybyla said he was confident both teams would make the finals.

“They will both finish top four for sure,” he said.

“That way both sides will get two chances in the semi-finals which is a huge benefit to the club.

“I think we will be able to finish off the year in a good position.”

One of Sydney’s oldest and biggest rugby league clubs, St Marys was founded in 1908, however, this is the first year the Saints have entered teams into both the Sydney Shield and Ron Massey Cup competitions.

Last week their hard work paid off, with players Ray Leasoa and Antonio Pelesasa selected to play for the Penrith Panthers in the NSW Cup.

Przybyla congratulated both the players on their hard work and dedication to rugby league and the Saints.

“Both Ray Leasoa and Antonio Pelesasa are still in their early 20s; they are just getting started so their career could go anywhere,” he said.

“Never say never.”

Przybyla told The Standard the St Marys club had seen huge improvements this year and the only way was “up”.

“It has been a big transition for our club across the board playing this level of football, but it has been a huge success,” he emphasised.

“These boys’ success highlight the pathways we have here for players.”

This weekend will see both sides play competition frontrunners Wentworthville at their St Marys Leagues Stadium homeground.

The Sydney Shield game will start at 11.15am followed by the Ron Massey Cup match at 1pm.

For more information on St Mary Rugby League Club, visit stmarys
leagues.com.au.