The reigning premiers proved too good on the day, leading from start to finish, but it was by no means an easy win and the Tricolours fought for 80 minutes. 

The rams scored two early tries, converting both to take a 14-0 lead. Cootamundra wrestled their way back into the match and Joe Fitzgerald managed to cross the try line, making it a one-score game.

Blayney upped their intensity after conceding and started to pull away.

Coach Mick Gay could see where his side were vulnerable.

“They were a very fast side. We got exposed a couple of times, especially in one-on-one situations,” he said.

Blayney continued to score and took a 26-7 lead into the halftime break. 

The second half was a bit of a stalemate, neither side dominated and fatigue set in. 

Both teams scored unconverted tries, Phil Gay for the Tricolours, to take the final score to 31-12.

In the sheds after the game the team was disappointed but should be extremely proud of what they have achieved this season. 

They’ve played hard for 80 minutes every Saturday and did exactly that in the grand final.

“Our blokes were still giving it their all in the last five minutes,” Gay said.

He was also extremely pleased by what the club has managed to achieve in its maiden year in a new competition.

“We’ve come along way this year, the whole culture of the club has changed and that’s evident by the supporters who were there on the weekend,” he said.

The move from the Southern Inland competition has been nothing but successful. Players are enjoying themselves, spectators are turning out in huge numbers and results are going the Tricolours’ way.  

The addition of the women’s sevens team is another huge boost.

“The Girls have added a lot to the club,” Gay said.       

While the Tricolours were unable to return from Blayney with a trophy their efforts this year have been extraordinary. The future of rugby union in Cootamundra is bright.