Rd 6 Tarsha Gale Cup Preview vs Dragons
It was always going to be a challenge for the Manly Warringah Sea Eagles in their inaugural season in the Tarsha Gale Cup.
New beginnings have their highs and lows. Excitement can turn to despair with each hurdle that comes your way.
It’s not an excuse. Just fact. But the one thing no-one can take away from these U19 girls playing their hearts out each week in the Sea Eagles jerseys is their dedication and determination to improve their skills.
The Sea Eagles got off to a dream start when they snatched a thrilling 16-12 win in their historic opening game at Campbelltown in early February.
Since then, the Sea Eagles have lost four straight games but have been more than competitive in every clash.
Injuries have certainly played their role as this team finds its way under respected and hard-working coach Nik Wolfgramm.
Last Saturday against equal competition leaders, the Bulldogs, it was just another frustrating outcome for the never say die Sea Eagles, who went down 18-4.
“It was the one that got away, again,’’ Wolfgramm said.
“We make life hard for ourselves. Playing the team that is coming first equal, we didn’t get off to an ideal start. Our first three touches, we gave them possession which they took full advantage off.
“The thing is, even though we were behind, I still felt we had their measure had we completed more in the first half.
“We were a lot better controlling the ball in the second half but the weight of possession the Bulldogs had in the first half eventually took its toll. We were unable to convert opportunities as the girls looked zapped.
“They only scored one try in the second half but again our mistakes proved costly.
“Our plan for this week is to do the simple things right. The rest will follow. The girls are determined to improve this week. They are so determined.”
Wolfgramm said new players Paris Pickering and Sharnyze Pihema had quickly made an impact on the side.
“They definitely have added an edge to our attack. Hopefully over the next few weeks, their combinations with the rest of the team will develop further,’’ he added.
The Sea Eagles will be out for their second win when they tackle the Dragons at Mascot Oval on Saturday, March 11, at 1pm.
