The Clarence Town Cobras have kicked off preparations for their 2018 season with a promising, hard-fought loss to Abberglasslyn on Saturday.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Buoyed by the return of halfback Cayle Middleton after a two year hiatus and a willing group of young Clarence Town locals new to the club, the Cobras started their match with plenty of fire.
There was plenty to like for the Cobras.
Middleton proved he wasn’t off the pace, marking his return with two tries, one of which was coming off a great pass from Brad Johnson who was playing at lock.
Middleton’s second effort was a good example of pace and anticipation, scoring off some good back up play.
Bustling big man, the young Blayd Rufo, scored the other try, a bullocking effort from the prop.
It was one of a number of impressive efforts from Rufo, who looks to be in for a big season.
At centre, another young player was strong, with Royden Stevens enjoying a good game.
He combined well with his wing Sam Salter, although their partnership may be put on hold after Salter unfortunately sustained a broken collarbone.
Playing three 20-minute thirds, the Cobras ultimately ran out of time, going down 22-18.
The Cobras will play their next match on Saturday, March 24 against Morpeth, kicking off 3pm at Cobra Park.
After last weekend’s showing there’s plenty to like but also plenty to improve on under the leadership of new coach James Foot.