Bundy defeat Gladstone Gruffs

BUNDABERG'S representative union team toasted its return to Wests Leagues Club with a 22-12 defeat of Gladstone Gruffs on Saturday afternoon.

After a drubbing at the hands of Fraser Coast earlier this year, a tough training schedule contributed to a finely tuned, well-drilled Bundaberg team taking the park this time.

Mitch Devitt starred for the home team, but the work of the forwards to dominate the rucks and mauls played a big part in the win.

To be fair to Gladstone it travelled to Bundaberg under-strength and undermanned but still managed to make a contest of it.

Bundaberg hooker Nathan Freeman said his team had a point to prove after the loss to Fraser Coast.

“We needed to win this one to show everyone that we were the real deal,” he said.

“People saw the effort and commitment we’ve put in at training pay off.

“It’s good for union in Bundaberg.”

Freeman said Devitt was inspirational.

“He went straight through three blokes to score one try. It was unreal.

“Bruce Dalton was also great for us in the forward pack.”

The team does not have another game scheduled, but is in talks with Rockhampton’s CQU and expects a return clash with Gladstone.

In the curtain raiser another “draw” was played out between the Bundaberg Rum Ruckers, Hervey Bay and Condamine Codgers.

A huge crowd was on hand to see both games, which is a positive sign for the sport in the region.