The Temora Rugby Union Club men’s team (Tuskers) lost 35-12 against the Young Yabbies in their final home game of the Central West Rugby Union South West Fuels Cup competition last Saturday. It was a case of déjà vu for the Tuskers on home turf at the Temora Recreation Ground as they once again paid the price for a slow start, one of the recurring frustrations of their 2026 campaign. The Tuskers’ joint coach Kris Dunstan said Young dominated possession and field position from the outset, capitalising on his team’s errors. Before the Tuskers had settled into the match, the Yabbies had crossed for two converted tries and added a penalty goal to establish a commanding lead. Their dominance continued throughout the first half, with a polished performance with ball in hand, taking a deserved 24-5 halftime lead. While the result was disappointing for the Tuskers, spectators were treated to two moments of brilliance that will long be remembered. “Young speedster Bailey Purcell produced two spectacular solo tries, each featuring a daring double chip-and-chase before regathering at full pace and streaking away from defenders,” Dunstan said. “The electrifying winger was a constant threat whenever he touched the ball and provided the standout moments in a match full of intensity. “While Purcell’s brilliance was impossible to ignore, Young's victory was built on a complete team performance.” Dunstan said Young controlled the contest through superior breakdown work, cleaner handling and disciplined defence, rarely allowing the Tuskers to build sustained attacking pressure. Despite the defeat, several Tuskers produced commendable performances. “Fullback Ryan Jordan turned in one of his strongest performances of the season after an injury-disrupted year - he linked effectively with Purcell in our most dangerous attacking movements and showed the class that has made him such an important member of the side when fit,” Dunstan said. “Hooker Decklan Reardon worked tirelessly across the full 80 minutes, repeatedly throwing himself into the contest in defence and around the ruck. “Backrowers Penji Seruitamana and Zac Breust were also among our best, making valuable contributions with strong defence and powerful carries. “Centre Freddy Vosebeci, replacement prop Ioane Mika, flyhalf Cooper Gersbach and lock Conlan West also produced solid performances for us.” Last Saturday’s loss leaves the Tuskers looking to finish the 2026 season on a positive note when they face the Boorowa Goldies in an away game in the final round of the regular competition. Missing out on finals football, the Tuskers’ season ends on Saturday. For Young, however, their determined display against the Tuskers kept their premiership hopes alive and put them firmly on course for a finals appearance.
