Griffo Memorial Cup: Magpies Edge Bulls
The Hills Bulls and Wentworthville Magpies are contesting the inaugural Griffo Memorial Cup this season, with the winners decided after the completion of their Ron Massey Cup and Sydney Shield home and away matches.
The Magpies drew first blood in the series last Sunday, with a hard fought 28-18 victory, after trailing 10-12 at half time.
The Griffo Memorial Cup has been warmly received by both clubs, because the late Paul “Griffo’ Griffin was a long-time coach and member of the Hills Bulls, and he was highlyrespected among the other clubs as well. His widow Robyn Griffin said on her Facebook post that it was “a special day for us and for everyone involved”.
“For many years The Hills District and Wenty Magpies have had a love-hate relationship, on the field, (they were) harsh competitors and then off the field (they) would share a beer together, and have become mates.
“Paul was lucky enough to always be a part of playing and coaching over the years. I would like to say a very special thank you to Rod Pritchard and Michael Gremmo, along with the many others it took, to make the inaugural Griffo Memorial Cup the day that it was.
“I feel very honoured as I know my family does, that Paul has yet again been recognised in such a special way.”
The Magpies and the Bulls have always a healthy rivalry in their clashes and last Sunday’s match at Kellyville Memorial Park was no different.
Maila Aluni-Chanfoon (18th minute) and Jayden Yates (22nd) scored the tries which gave the Bulls the half-time lead after Joshuah Minhinnick had planted the first try for the visitors in the eighth minute.
Tali Toetu’u converted both tries for the Bulls who were, however, unable to prevent the Magpies from scoring three converted tries to storm to a 28- 12 lead by the 68th minute. Ben Valu, Austin Quast and Blake Cook were the second half scorers for the winners, with Joseph Nohra converting four of the five tries.
The Bulls scored a consolation try in the 78th minute try through Corey Ross.
This Saturday, the seventh-placed Bulls are away to table toppers St Mary’s.
Meanwhile in the Sydney Shield, the thirdplaced Hills Bulls and the Magpies drew 22-all in a thrilling game. Here, the Bulls, led by Jayden Griffin, came from behind to snatch the draw, thanks to a 72nd minute try by Tom Watson, with Kade Moujalli adding the extra points.
