The Phantoms have picked up their second straight win to start the second-grade season after a 17-10 win over Wagga City on Saturday.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Phantoms' president John Hill was impressed with the performance of the side during what was a physical encounter.
"It was a good hard physical game which was really good, but to our boy's credit they stuck to their guns and put in a really solid effort," he said.
"Very happy with how they went. Not only the senior players but we also had four under 17s running around out there with two of them making their debut, and they played really well."
It was the performances of the two young debutants who impressed Hill with their attitude to the hard-fought encounter.
"Talking to a couple of the 17-year-olds they really enjoyed their day and the experience," he said.
"They both played in the front row in 16s, so the physical side of the game isn't something that is new to them."
Soropepeli Soqe, Daniel Bozic and Freddy Tupou scored the tries for the Phantoms while Wah Paw kicked one conversion in their seven-point victory.
Hill felt the score could have been more had the side held their concentration at the vital moments.
"We were a bit disappointed that it was as close as it was," he said.
"We probably bombed about three or four tries just through simple knock-ons or badly directed last passes, so that was a little bit disappointing.
"Half of the knock-ons were from guys not concentrating. They were looking at the defence coming up rather than looking at the ball.
"Rugby is a pretty simple game if you keep your eye on the ball you are probably going to get 90% of things right.
"The guys were having a peek at the defence because it was such a physical game and that was causing them to drop a bit of ball."
Hill said the result shows the Phantoms should be in a good position for the rest of the season.
"The fact that we did get over them all be it with a number of mistakes by us I think it puts us in a good position," he said.
"No doubt that when or if we get to the finals if we come up against them, they will be stronger again."
The side will now prepare for their first away game of the season and Hill was hopeful they would have strong numbers available.
"We had good numbers and good support here yesterday, and that is really good for us," he said.
"Next week will be the test when we have to travel down to Deniliquin."
They will be waiting on the fitness of Jerry Navia who picked up a head knock.
RELATED