FNQ Rugby’s fastest women to face off in final round
A clash of FNQ Rugby’s fastest flyers will highlight the final round of the women’s 10s competition on Saturday when two prolific tryscorers go head-to-head at Barlow Park.
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A CLASH of FNQ Rugby’s fastest flyers will highlight the final round of the women’s 10s competition on Saturday when two prolific tryscorers go head-to-head at Barlow Park.
Paige Groves has been a sensation for Northern Beaches Mudcrabs this season.
The Ravenshoe product spends more time on the road going to and from training than she does on the actual paddock, but has evolved into one of Far North Queensland’s most promising youngsters.
The flyer, described by long-term coach and supporter of women’s rugby Russell Todd as a “whippet”, has crossed the stripe 17 times to be the leading tryscorer. Her pace and agility are well-noted, long-range tries have become a specialty, and the budding star packs a hefty punch in defence.
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Mudcrabs coach Gareth Williams said Groves’ presence near the ball, and her form throughout the season, had ensured the side was a genuine scoring threat no matter where on the field they are.
“Most of them have been long-range tries but other teams are starting to catch on to that,” Williams said.
“She’s a Speedy Gonzalez, she’s incredibly quick.
“We do have some really good forwards up the middle as well who lay a good platform for us but she’s a danger.”
While Groves’ Mudcrabs go out knowing they can still win the minor premiership if results go their way, she will come face-to-face with a woman who is nipping at her heels.
Francis Newman has been a revelation for Penrhyn Sharks.
The speedy winger has scored 13 of her team’s 33 tries this year, and while Penrhyn has managed just the three wins from their eight games Newman’s presence makes them a threat. Sharks will finish third regardless of the outcome of Saturday’s clash, but will be looking for valuable momentum in the run to the finals.
In the other game, Wanderers face Brothers. Both games kick off at 1pm.
Originally published as FNQ Rugby’s fastest women to face off in final round