In near perfect conditions for Rugby, Young were slow out of the blocks for Goulburn to score the opening try before the Yabbies had the opposition back peddling and Julian Roles split the defence to score which was converted by Pete Maher.

Twice in the half Young burst through Goulburn’s defensive line and with no-one to beat the final pass was knocked on.

The game moved from end to end as both teams threw the ball around but could not score.

The second half started with a penalty goal to Goulburn which seemed to lift them and they ran in two quick tries before James Maloney, playing in the unfamiliar position of breakaway, scored for Young.

The Dirty Reds hit back with a fourth try but Julian Roles wasn’t finished as he punched through the tiring Goulburn backs to score at the bell.

Too little too late and Goulburn held on for a 27-21 win that left Young rueing their lost opportunities.

Best and Fairest points went to Ben Simmons 3, Julian Roles 2 with James Maloney and Matt Happa awarded 1 point each.

Veteran and club stalwart, Mick Hudson was voted Player’s Player.

(J Roles 2, J Maloney 1 tries, P Maher 3 conv.)