First Grade came up against Grenfell’s invitational side which featured former North Queensland Cowboys forward, Steve “Bluey” Southern, former South Sydney hooker Jason Death and talented expats Mick Armstrong, Josh Bateman, Junior Vatikani and Hale Teofilo.

The ‘Pickers’ new recruits were standouts on the day, with Neil Thorman dangerous out of dummy half, Andre Singh safe at the back, and Matt Wakefield playing well in the middle.

Zac Chong-Nee looked dangerous out wide, and Carl Planicka had a strong game.

It was Grenfell who eventually took the win in a tight 36-30 finish.

According to club secretary Beau Elsley, it was a great trial game for the side in a very tough and physical game.

Tries went to Matt Murray 2, Andre Singh, Jason Brown, Warren Aiken and Carl Planicka, and goals to Matt Wakefield 1/2 and Matt Murray 4/6.

The Cherryettes were able to put into practice what they’ve been focusing on at training when they came up against the talented Grenfell Goanna’s team.

The Cherryettes went in with high expectations of the Grenfell team as they have heard a lot of positive feedback about their abilities.

They knew they had to work hard in both defence and attack to get some points on their opposition.

With new coaches, Kel Veney and Ben Cooper, on the sideline supporting the girls and reinforcing what needed to be done, the Cherryettes worked hard in the first five minutes to gain possession of the ball. 

Two players were lost during the early part of the game, so hard work was needed to hold Grenfell out, of which Young were successful in doing so. 

The Cherryettes put into play some of their attacking sets and with the speed of the wings, they were able to continue to maximise the ground position.

Danika Coddington took two outstanding intercepts which saw Breanna Furner successfully score a try. Laura Eastlake was dominating in her kicking game -able to chip and chase and score her own try. 

Caitlin Silk’s speed was outstanding. She was able to step the opposition on a number of occasions, successfully scoring two tries under the goal posts. 

The combination of Holly Cullen and Sarah Corcoran resulted in the ball being moved out wide where they were able to support tries. 

The Cherryettes came out on top in a sweet 24-16 victory.

The weekend’s Player’s Player went to Laura Eastlake.

The Under 18s played an impressive game for Young in what was described as a one- sided game.

The boys showed they have what it takes to be strong contenders in Group 9 this season after winning their match 56-4.

Tries to Jack Stanley (4) and Jesse Corcoran (3).

Tuggeranong will travel to Young on Saturday for a trial match against the ‘Pickers First and Reserve grades at Keith Cullen Oval from 2.30pm. 

The Under 18s and League Tag sides play their Group Nine trials at Gundagai, and the Under 16s have their Group Nine trials on Sunday.

The Cherrypickers will celebrate their season launch at the Young Services Club on Saturday night commencing at 7pm. All are welcome to the night that will involve a Player Sponsor’s draw and the chance to meet the club’s new recruits.