By Casey OÇonnor
In front of a big home crowd at Platz Oval on Sunday afternoon Wattles Warriors certainly had their game day faces on.
Coming off a disappointing loss in round one the defending Warriors came into the game with a real determination dominating Souths to win their Toowoomba Rugby League A grade match 42-4.
Although they lost to Dalby in round one loss against Dalby in round one there was plenty to like about the performance of the new look team and on Sunday they stepped-up a gear and dominated from the kick off.
Matt Christensen said in a post-game interview that conditions were very hot and despite the scoreline it was a very tough game.
“Before the game the team spoke of making Playz Oval their own fortress. “We are pleased we only let in one try during the game.”
The fullback revealed he was originally meant to play in the centres this season but following a conversation with coach Travis Burns switched to the fullback roll only weeks before the season opened.
He has slotted into the full back role perfectly and his performance on Sunday earned him the Hutchinson Builders Player of the Match Award and three Webcke Price Medal points.
Christensen troubled the Tigers all game as did his partners at the back Mitch Bourke and Jake Meddleton. All three had great games. Winger Bourke helped himself to three tries and his try saving tackles just as impressive. Not to be denied Jake Meddleton also got on the scoreboard in the 24th minute with his own try.
Tom Morris, Brayden Paix, Mitch Duff were Wattles other try scorers.
Wattles ball control was much improved and their defence outstanding.
The Tigers threw everything they had at them but could not crack the Wattles defence.
The Tigers only try came in the 64th minutes when winger Zane Santarossa scored. The conversion attempt was unsuccessful.
Luke Maiden and Matt Murphy put it to the Warriors and were the best in a beaten side.
Wattles showed they will again be a force to be reckoned with in 2023 as they aim for back to back premierships.
This is a new look side and their win over the Tigers shows they are meshing well, and their new combinations are developing with every game.
The A Grade win was the icing on the cake for the big crowd after the Reserve Grade and Under 19 sides each scored big wins.
Wattles 42 (Mitch Bourke 3, Matt Christensen, Jake Meddleton, Tom Morris, Brayden Paix, Mitch Duff tries Brayden Paix 5 goals) defeated Souths 4 (Zane Santarossa try)
Webcke Price Medal Points
3 Matt Christensen (Wattles) 2 Mitch Bourke (Wattles) 1 Luke Maiden (Souths)
Reserve Grade
Wattles 42 d. Souths 4
Under 19
Wattles 40 d. Souths 22
