RUGBY UNION
Forbes rugby union’s under 14s are central west premiers - and local talent was key to their grand final success.
Canowindra's James Oborn, Cowra's Nick Green, Max and Ned Osborne, all play with the Platypi 14s who triumphed 28-22 over Dubbo Roos Blues in the grand final in Bathurst.
Quandialla's Tom Vonthien, the number 8, scored the opening try for the Platypi and was named player of the match for his outstanding efforts through the game.
Vonthien's try, converted, gave the Platypi an early lead in the grand final.
Dubbo replied with a converted try in the 13th minute to take the score to 7-7, then took a 12-7 lead with another try in the 18th minute.
Inspirational captain Tom Johnson intercepted a Dubbo pass off the line-out to score two minutes later with Eli again adding the extras to put Forbes back in front 14-12.
But when Forbes had a player sin-binned Dubbo swooped, scoring out wide to take it to 17-14 then extending their lead to 22-14 with 14 minutes to go.
Another barnstorming run by Tom Vonthien swung the momentum back Forbes' way, with Eli's kick narrowing the gap to 22-21.
Forbes was down a player again, with another sin bin following a controversial call, but with minutes left, Eli Bowden-Boland scored a great 50-metre individual try with Ned Glasson adding the extras bringing the score to 28-22.
The young Platypi just held Dubbo out through the game's dying stages for the win.
Manager Matt Hazell described the victory as a true team effort, especially given the side had three injuries early in the game.
Every player gave it everything they had to win.
Tom Vonthien was named player of the grand final and was a stand out for Forbes, along with captain Tom Johnson and Eli Bowden-Boland.
Forbes' Under 14s and Under 16s both claimed premierships and “unreal” was how Forbes Rugby Union’s junior club president Dan Beard described the efforts of the two sides in two tough grand finals against Dubbo Roos Blue teams.
Both sides recorded a loss in the first week of finals, but found their resolve and their next level to put in outstanding performances on grand final day.
“It showed great character, great resolve of the players and coaches,” Beard said.
“The commitment just shows and we couldn’t be any prouder of our little club.”
Forbes’ 16s triumphed 43-21, Thompson Hurford running in three tries and Ash Kennedy two with Frank McMahon and Bobby Mundy adding one apiece for the total.
Mac Glasson, four goals, was outstanding and received man of the match honours for his efforts in guiding the team around the park.
They’re a credit to their coaches and testament to the club’s consistency and effort, Beard said.
Their success also reflects the club’s commitment to a good culture and family environment.
The club will open registrations for the 2026 season in the new year. Follow Forbes Rugby Union Club on social media for dates and updates.