Campbelltown 2nd Grade 22 – Shamrocks 2nd Grade 31

The Woonoona Shamrocks 2nd Grade team maintained their impressive form with a confident 31-22 victory away at Campbelltown Rugby Club on Saturday afternoon, solidifying their position near the top of the Illawarra District Rugby Union Competition ladder.

The Shamrocks demonstrated their attacking prowess with five tries in an entertaining encounter that showcased their ability to perform away from home. The stars aligned for the Ridgway brothers, with fly-half Ben Ridgway and scrum-half Will Ridgway both crossing the try line in a dominant display of backline play.

The match opened with fullback Simon Bayley touching down for the visitors, converted by Ben Ridgway to give Shamrocks an early 7-0 lead. The momentum continued when Will Ridgway darted over from the base of a ruck to extend the advantage.

Winger Robbie Coso, playing on the left wing after his recent 1st Grade appearance, showed his class with a well-taken try in the corner. Ben Ridgway then capped off a flowing team move with a try of his own, which he also converted to push the score out to 24-0.

Campbelltown refused to surrender and mounted a spirited comeback, managing to close the gap with several tries of their own. However, the final word went to replacement Ryan Schoupp, who sealed the victory with a try that he converted himself, demonstrating the depth in the Shamrocks squad.

Despite being reduced to 14 men at one point when Sam Hodson received a yellow card for foul play, the Shamrocks showed excellent game management to maintain control. The tactical substitutions proved effective, with Jacob Robinson, Anthony Nicholson, and Jacobus Newhouse all making positive contributions when introduced.

The forward pack laid a solid foundation for the backs to shine, with props Jarred Leece and Jordan Whitehead providing stability in the set pieces. Number eight Angus Crichton was prominent with ball in hand, making numerous carries to get his side on the front foot.

This victory continues Shamrocks 2nd Grade’s excellent start to the 2025 season, with the team showing they can deliver consistent performances both at home and on the road. The coaching duo of Lachlan King and playing-coach Ben Ridgway have instilled a winning culture that is evident in the team’s execution and composure under pressure.

With the competition heating up as teams approach the midway point of the season, Shamrocks 2nd Grade have positioned themselves as genuine title contenders. Their ability to score from multiple positions and maintain defensive discipline, even when down a player, bodes well for the challenges ahead.