THE Jindabyne Bushpigs used their get-out-of-jail-free card against Bungendore last Saturday, with Hunter Pearce running from halfway, beating several tackles to score the winning try under the posts just before full-time.
In what was an entertaining game of rugby, besides some poor ball handling, both teams held the lead at different stages before the home team prevailed 31-24.
When Mat Peterson scored late in the second half, it appeared the Bushpigs had a grasp on the game. Dylan Johnson missed what was a relatively easy kick at goal, giving the visitors hope.
Bungendore then missed a penalty from close range before Pearce sealed the victory with his running exploits.
Try time for the Bushpigs
The Bushpigs will need to improve their handling if they are to progress further this season. Jackson Stewart fed some quality ball to his outside backs, but there was too much dropped ball, some on attacking raids that could have led to tries.
On a sour note, captain Billy Small sustained an ankle injury in a tackle, and his season is now in doubt.
Captain Billy Small suffered an ankle injury.
The players looked hungry for the result, and continually put their bodies on the line to keep possession. The scrummaging was excellent, and if they can just tidy up their set plays they can be a serious threat for the title.
It was a moral victory for the Bushpigs, who head to Bungendore in a few weeks time for the major semi-final, and a chance at a home grand final if they can secure the win over the ladder leaders.
Try scorers on Saturday were Brock Freeburn, Finn Chatten (a double), Mat Peterson and Hunter Pearce. Dylan Johnson converted three goals.
A selection of pictures from the game by Steve Cuff.
