By Casey OÇonnor
The Warwick Water Rats headed into their opening game of the 2023 Darling Downs Rugby Union season with confidence having enjoyed an excellent preseason.
Unfortunately their expectations hit a bump in the road when they took on the Condamine Cods in the opening round of the Bill Flaxseed Cup.
Despite a solid hit out at the home of the Cods the Water Rats found the Condamine Cods too good on Saturday suffering a first round loss. The final score 29-12.
The Rats got over the line twice with tries to forward Adam Emmerson and inside centre Saimoni Vodo. Moape Vosavakadua kicked two conversions.
The Water Rats will be better for the game against the Cods and with a break for the Easter weekend have another week to prepare before facing one of the hardest road trips in the competition in round two when they play Goondiwindi at home.
The Emus will be full of confidence after opening their season with a three point win over Toowoomba Rangers. The game at the Goondiwindi Rugby Union Oval kicks off at 1.30pm on Saturday 15 April.
