1992 The Year that was!

Round 1 – 29/3/92

Logan City 22 d Wynnum Manly 10 (Meakin Park)

Sunday provided a less than auspicious opening to the season for the Wynnum Seag­ulls when they engaged the Logan City Scorpions at Meakin Park.

The afternoon started well with the Colts emerging winners 14-4 in a willing contest and then it was the Reserve grade’s turn.  They eventually went down 6-8 looking the far better side scoring the only try, but succumbing to four penalty goals.  A glaring feature of these two games was the Seagulls lack of ball security and this melee magnified itself in the A grade clash.

The Seagulls A’s managed a remarkable feat in consistently looking the side with the greater potential yet squandered possession in such a profligate manner as to enable a workman like Logan City to register a 22-10 win.

Once the Baysiders get it right with ball security and critical pass­es go to hand, they will command a deserved place in the winner’s circle, a glance at the leading tacklers will indicate how much time the Seagulls spent not in possession of the ball with Mark Gliddon 35, Steve Malt 29, and Darryl Jenner 26.

Scorers: Logan City 22 (B.Armstrong 3, T.Lunan tries, Lunan 3 goals) defeated Wynnum Manly 10 (Steven Plath, Bradley Morgan tries, Jamie Hooper goal).

 

Round 2 – 5/4/92

Easts 26 d Wynnum Manly 12 (Kougari Oval)

Wynnum Seagulls played with a lot of courage but conceded too much start to the 1991 premiers Easts at Kougari on Sunday.  Easts won 26-12 with Wynnum running in a try near half time and two more in the second half.  The second Seagulls try, a long range effort, alone was worth the price of admission as the ball passed through 10 sets of hands to be eventually placed over the line by front rower Craig Greenhill.

In the first half, the momentum of the game was not with the Seagulls and a similar thing occurred to the previous week against Logan City a few untimely penalties, a few extra spilt balls, has been all that separated the Seagulls from their opponents in general play.  The scoreboard indicated a 4-3 try advantage to Easts while their fullback Paul Mulvihill kicked 5 goals.

The Seagulls other tries resulted from determined efforts close to the line by centre Ricky Taylor and hooker Mark Gliddon following good lead up work by team mates.  The defence from both sides was ferocious with players launching them­selves at tackles as if it was a test match.  Best player award went to hooker Mark Gliddon who topped the tackle count for the second week with 49.

The Reserve Grade kept the flag fly­ing with a highly promising 18-10 win over East’s and fullback Michael Death scored 3 tries. Death also kicked a penalty goal while Jamie Hooper add­ed two conversions. It was equally encouraging to see such a good attendance at Kougari Oval in the showery conditions.

The local players certainly respond­ed to the crowd support and the club would be hoping for a similar turnout next Sunday when Valleys are wel­comed at Kougari. Another three entertaining games are guaranteed. 

Scorers: Easts 26 (S.Davis 2, R.Duncan, A.McGowan tries, P.Mulvhill 5 goals) defeated Wynnum Manly 12 (R.Taylor, M.Gliddon, C.Greenhill tries).

 

Round 3 – 12/4/92

F/Valley 30 d Wynnum Manly 16 (Kougari Oval)

Wynnum Seagulls Rugby League Club almost ambushed Brisbane competition front-runners Valleys, at Kougari Oval on Sunday.

The Baysiders led 16-10 at the break and scrambled desperately in defence in the second half to preserve a margin of 16-12 until the 60th min­ute when Valleys front-rower Martin McKenzie scored near the post allow­ing winger Gerard Kerr an easy conversion. 

With their noses finally in front at 18-16, the Diehards were on a roll and engineered a further two tries (both converted) to produce a final score line of 30-16.

On the profit side for the Seagulls, victory was tantalizingly close against a strong and more experienced team who has thrashed their opponents in earlier fixtures. 

Best players awards went to Craig Greenhill (front row) and Bradley Morgan (wing) while fullback Pow­er’s play was commendable.

Perhaps the last word on the game should be left to the coaches, Valleys coach Geoff Naylor said:  “It was the hardest game we’ve been in and we’re lucky to have got away with it.”

Seagulls coach Gary Seaton’s post-match directive to his players was:  “We need to play for the entire 80 minutes as we did in the first 60 of this game and it will come.”

The reserve grade’s loss to Valleys 10-18 came at some cost with Ross Ludlow being taken to hospital with a suspected broken arm, the club wishes him a swift recovery.  The colts emerged victors 32-24 over Valleys with Jason Predl scoring three tries colts have now won two out of three fixtures.

Scorers: Valleys 30 (M.McKenzie 2, A.Crowther, B.King, S.Retchless tries, G.Kerr 5 goals) defeated Wynnum Manly 16 (J.Power, R.Allen, B.Morgan tries, Morgan 2 goals).

 

Round 4 – 19/4/92

Wynnum Manly 34 d P/Brothers 20 (Crosby Park)

Wynnum Seagulls rugby league side proved too slick for Brothers at Crosby Park on Easter Sunday running out winners 34-20, the Baysiders scored seven tries to three and this margin accurately reflected the form on the day.

Yet it looked like being anything but a romp early in the second half when Brothers, enjoyed a glut of possession, closed to 14-18 and then were denied an equaliser as their ball carrier was cleverly “held up” over Wynnum’s try line by halfback Steve Plath.

Brad Nairn was outstanding in the second row for the locals.  Nairn effectively set the tone of the game by shedding tackles to score wide out in the 15th minute and five minutes later backed up the speedy Steve Plath to cross the try line again.  Fellow back rower Ray Allen also relished the open spaces created by his team mates to finish with two tries himself.  The other tries went to fullback Justin Power, wing Darren Filewood and halfback Steve Plath, while Bradley Morgan (wing) added three conversions.

The game featured the Seagulls now customary free flowing attack but with a noticeable reduction in errors which have tended to diminish their best efforts in earlier fixtures.  Coach Gary Seaton, not one to normally speak in clinches, was moved to declare afterwards: “The best is yet to come.”

Points in the best player’s awards went to: Brad Nairn and five-eighth Darren Whipps,

Neil Lusk, who came on as a forward replacement in the second half deserves special mention for a sol­id first up performance in A grade.  Some luster was removed from the win when Craig Greenhill, who had another strong game, was given “an early shower” by the referee in the final minutes.

The Colts lost 20-34 and the Reserves went down 10-14. On the basis of these two results, it must be said the players are generally not doing justice to themselves.  Best players:  Colts – Jason Predl, Danny McAllister.  Reserves – Dennis Lewis, Mark Lillicrap.

The Seagulls will welcome Ipswich at Kougari Oval.  Both clubs will be without their State League players.  Seagulls representatives are: centre Ricky Taylor who will play for Brisbane Capitols and hooker Mark Gliddon who was selected for Brisbane Metros.

Scorers: Wynnum 34 (Ray Allen 2, Brad Nairn 2, Justin Power, Stephen Plath, Darren Filewood tries, Brad Morgan 3 goals) defeated Brothers 20 (A.Guilfoyle, J.Cartwright, B.Hurren tries, G.Darwin 4 goals).

 

Round 5 – 26/4/92

Wynnum Manly 22 d Ipswich 18 (Kougari Oval)

Wynnum Seagulls recorded a gripping 22-18 win over the Ipswich Jets in A grade rugby league action at Kougari Oval last Sunday week. There probably have been tighter finishes in the history of rugby league, but bayside supporters had to watch their team defend a 16-2 lead estab­lished in the 30th minute, until the final moments when the Jets had a try disallowed (double movement) within close kicking range.  However, a win is a win and the A’s are now equal fifth on the premiership points table.

The A grade backline functioned as it should accounting for all four tries, but the highlight of the game oc­curred in the 22nd minute of the second half when replacement full­back Michael Death swept on to a short pass from halfback Steve Plath to scorch 50m for a try under the post.  This effort, which gained the locals valuable breathing space, was a dem­onstration of precise timing with second rower Brad Nairn having act­ed as a decoy runner.

Ex-Redlands footballer Dean Penrose played very capably in the centre and straightened the backline raids while Steve Malt took the ball up with purpose in the forwards.

The reserves also got home (20-6) while the colts, who continue to beat themselves with undisciplined play but have the talent to take on all comers, lost 16-34.

Best player awards went to: A’s – Craig Greenhill, Darren Whipps;  Reserves – Brad Chappel, Chris Mor­gan;  Colts – Shayne Brunton, Danny McAllister.  The Leagues Club Player of the Afternoon was Brad Chappel.

Last weekend senior football on the local scene was confined to the two open sides who played at Kougari Oval on Saturday.  The U17 and U19 (colts) Slate Championships took place at Lang Park over the Labor Day weekend.

Wynnum players Jeff Wittenberg and Mitchell Watts were selected for the Brisbane Metros Ul9″s.  A grade centre Ricky Taylor was selected to play for the Brisbane Capi­tals against Gold Coast at Neumann Oval on the Sunday.

Scorers: Wynnum Manly 22 (Stephen Plath, Darren Filewood, Justin Power, Michael Death tries, Brad Morgan 3 goals) defeated Ipswich 18 (B.Kaatz 2, P.Dodd tries, B.Landrigan 3 goals).

 

Round 6 – 10/5/92

Wynnum Manly 24 d Souths 22 (Davies Park)

Wynnum Seagulls made it three wins in a row when they edged out Souths 24-22 in the A grade clash at Davies Park on Sunday.  Bayside supporters, weathered another attack of the jitters as a comfortable halftime lead of 18-4 shortened as the afternoon shadows lengthened.

However, the close run after does not detract from the two premiership points scored, nor does it alter the fact the locals are now outright fifth on the table.  It will fall to coach Gary Seaton to ensure the A’s maintain intensity for the entire 80 minutes.

The reserve grade followed up their win over Ipswich with a solid 20-14 decision over Souths.

It was uneventful for 50 minutes in the Colts game ‘ before competition leaders Souths slipped away 34-10. Jason Predl and David Smallbone scored tries while Mitchell Watts added a conversion. 

Coach Daryl Smith would no doubt be keen to have his injured Queensland U 19 representative Jeff Wittenberg back in the line-up.  Wittenberg has been selected for the interstate U19 clash which will provide a curtain raiser to the third Test at Lang Park on July 3.

The A grade remain without regular centres Ricky Taylor and Date Jensen for a further week as the rep side Brisbane Capitals have made the semi-finals of the Winfield State League to be played in Toowoomba on Sunday.  Finalists will play a curtain raiser to the second State of Origin at Lang Park on May 20.

Meanwhile the Open 4s’ 28-15 victory over Mt Gravatt on Sunday ensures they will have the distinction of being the first senior team from the re­formed Wynnum Seagulls to contest a trophy match.  The 4s will play Rathdowney for the Chairman’s Trophy on Monday, June 8, at Davies Park.  

Best player awards — A’s: Craig Greenhill. Dennis Lewis, Reserves: Darryl Jenner, Chris Morgan. Colts: Matthew Hayes, Michael McLachlan. Open 4s: Brendan McGuffin, Lester Murphy.

The leagues club player of the afternoon went to Darren “Whippet” Whipps who is skipper of the A’s, and as Darren says; “Just gets better as he gets older.”  A special “bench warmers” award was presented to substitute A grade forward Neil Lush.

A grade try scorers were Darren Whipps, Ray Allen, Brad Nairn and Justin Power. Brad Morgan kicked all four conversions while debutante winger Dennis “boots” Lewis produced a couple of memora­ble last ditch tackles.

Scorers: Wynnum Manly 24 (Darren Whipps, Ray Allen, Brad Nairn, Justin Power tries, Brad Morgan 4 goals) defeated Souths 22 (M.Lane 2, F.Hill tries, R.Hastie 5 goals).

 

Round 7 – 17/5/92

Wynnum Manly 16 d Wests 2 (Purtell Park)

Wynnum Seagulls’ A grade rugby league team extended its winning sequence to four with a 16-2 demolition of Wests Panthers at Purtell Park on Sunday.  The baysiders now enjoy equal third position (with Valleys and Wests) on the Brisbane Division ladder.

Wests kicked a penalty in the second minute of the game and then were effectively closed down by a swarming Seagulls’ defence which refused to crack.  Much of the credit for the locals’ excellent fitness standards needs to be given to trainer Jim Ryan.  The first of Wynnum’s tries came in the 25th minute when winger Darren Filewood finished off an or­thodox backline move from a mid­field scrum with a 25m dash for the corner.  

Ten minutes later a cutout pass front halfback Steve Plath found lock Ray Allen who drew the defence and then offload­ed to five-eighth Darren Whipps running the angle and unmarked for a try near the post.

With 11 minutes to go, fullback Justin Power took the first pass from a scrum set on Seagulls’ 22 and sprinted 70m, closely pursued by the Wests’ winger.  About 10m out, mudlark Power, dived to the sodden ground and then aqua­planed to seal the game.  Centre Bradley Morgan kicked a penalty goal and conversion.

The reserve grade lost 2-24 in a showing which in no way reflects their poten­tial, while the Colts won 14-12 in a game played in good spirit.

Player awards- Under 18’s – Russell Brodie;  Open 4s – Clint Chaffey, Steve Jones;  Open 2s-Scott Moffatt, Dave Edwards;  Colts – Michael McLachlan, Brett Greenhill; Reserves – Chris Morgan, Brett Gant;  A’s – Justin Power, Mark Gliddon.

The leagues club Player of the Weekend was appropriately Steve “Mouse” Malt, while Craig Greenhill received a special award.

Scorers: Wynnum Manly 16 (D.Filewood, D.Whipps, J.Power tries, B.Morgan 2 goals) defeated Wests 2 (J.Green goal).

 

Round 8 – 24/5/92

Norths 32 d Wynnum Manly 6 (Bishop Park)

Local fans are hoping Wynnum Seagull’s Sunday rugby league match result wasn’t an indicator for this weekend’s challenge.  A somewhat over-confident yet under committed Seagulls side was giv­en a football lesson to the tune of a 32-6 loss against competition leaders Norths on Sunday at Bishop Park.

It is to be hoped any tendency towards complacency has been excised with this loss and the players now realise a win in this deadly strengthening competition is assembled without any shortcuts.  Any team with ambitions of beating Norths will do well to shut down their double act playmakers of half back Craig Grauf and second rower Darryl Duncan.

The Baysiders held their own territo­rially in the first half but were unable to translate field positions into points on the scoreboard.  Several times the locals were cut down a metre or two from the try line while Norths managed two converted tries for a 12-0 half time lead.

Norths winger Guy Harvey did a superb job of inflating the score with six goals out of six attempts.  Second rower Brad Nairn scored Wynnum’s sole try after a dazzling series of passes, Brett Gant added the extras.

Fullback Justin Power involved him­self in most facets of play while repre­sentative centre Ricky Taylor asserted some authority when called off the bench-Front rower Steve Molt played him­self to a standstill and mobile second rower Brad Nairn gave 100 per cent.

Essentially the Seagulls need to emulate their play against Wests when opposition ball carriers were decked without prospect of getting the ball away, errors and penalties were kept to minimum, and runners were in position to back up breaks and half breaks.  They have given supporters many good moments this season and perhaps in time this result will be seen as the loss they needed to have.

Meanwhile Reserve grade coach Alfonso Miranda and Colts coach Dar­ryl Baker are less than happy,  the Reserves looked winners until the final minutes conceding 14-16 and the Colts players, who have an application problem only they can correct, lost 4-34.  The Open 4s and Open 2s kept the flag flying with wins over Waterford (26-6) and Richlands (28-14) respec­tively.  The U18s had their most impressive win to date downing competition leaders Brothers 14-12.

Best players awards: Open 4s – Brendan McGuffin, Steve Jones; Open 2s – Andrew Grech, Billy Edwards; Colts – Matthew Hayes, Jason Predl; Reserves – Tony Murray, Jamie Hooper; A Grade – Brad Nairn, Dennis Lewis.

The club player of the weekend was Duncan MacDonald-Kerr coming back from injury and demonstrating what heart is all about with an appearance in the Open’s on Saturday and then back­ing up to play a full Reserve grade game plus a sterling effort off the bench for the A’s.  The Bill Slovens encourage­ment award was pocketed by Open 2s player Colin Kruger.

The Quest Newspapers sponsored Brisbane Capitols defeated North Queensland 30-10 in the main curtain raiser to the second State of Origin.  Seagulls’ centres Ricky Taylor and Dale Jensen experienced their biggest games and no doubt, biggest thrill of their respective careers.

Scorers: Norths 32 (M.Kellaway, C.Grauf, D.Duncan, N.Tierney, B.Kelso tries, G.Harvey 6 goals) defeated Wynnum Manly 6 (B.Nairn try, Brett Gant goal).

 

Round 9 – 31/5/92

Wynnum Manly 18 d Redcliffe 6 (Kougari Oval)

The Wynnum Seagulls A Grade claimed the Quest Newspapers/ 4KQ Trophy with a decisive 18-6 win over the Redcliffe Dolphins at Kougari Oval on Sunday.  The Wynnum Herald editor Allan Watson presented the symbol of bayside supremacy to Seagulls skipper Darren Whipps.

The game, which was televised, drew a crowd of 1500 and club officials thank all those who attended, particularly, the Wynnum Manly juniors who paraded before the 3pm kick off, by the 4KQ Bear. 

Club secretary Mike Horgan applauded the efforts of players and supporters.  “We’re pretty happy with the result, its good to come away with a win,” he said.  “Considering the early rain which may have kept people away and the Broncos match, we had a good turnout.”It’s the first major trophy we have won since the inception of the new club name last year.  “There is a positive attitude in the club and we feel that our youth policy­ supporting young players – is starting to show some dividends.”It’s good to be fifth on the league ladder.  “If the players can maintain form, I think they can knock off those teams further up the ladder and secure a berth in the semi finals.”

It has been confirmed by the BRL that Wynnum enjoys the best ground at­tendance of the 10 Brisbane division clubs.

The occasion also marked the 100th A Grade game for fullback Bradley Morgan.  Morgan’s senior career started in 1983 and he has proved to be a man for all seasons.  A testimonial dinner will be held for him at the leagues club on August 7. 

Reserve grade suffered a loss and with a two-week break players need to analyse their game if they hope to put on a better performance.  In a much improved and encouraging performance, the Colts conceded 28-4 after holding the strong Redcliffe to 10­-4 at half time.  The Open 4’s defeated Greenbank 24­-6 and Open 2’s won 28-8 over Logan City while the U18 drew 12-all with Souths.

Best player awards – U 18 – Phil But­ler;  Open 4s – Brendan McGuffin and Michael Modini;  Open 2s John Elisaia, Peter Hayes;  Colts – Kurt Tanks, Shayne Brunton; and Reserves Danny Grimley, Scott Mathers;  A’s Darren Whipps and Ray Allen.

Scorers: Wynnum Manly 18 (S.Plath 2, R.Allen, J.Power tries, R.Taylor goal) defeated Redcliffe 6 (D.Robson try, S.Pringle goal).

 

Round 10 – 14/6/92

Wynnum Manly 14 d Logan City 10 (Kougari Oval)

Wynnum Seagulls redressed a first round loss to Logan City with a slim 14-10 win at Kougari Oval on Sun­day.  A grade rugby league coach Gary Seaton was less than impressed with the result, although it ele­vated the baysiders to equal fourth position with Valleys. 

Seaton felt his team dropped intensity after the interval (halftime score 8-2) and youthful exuberance allowed too many pushed passes that were “not on”.

As a consequence scor­ing opportunities were not fully utilised. To be fair, the game did not achieve a natural flow due to inordinate stoppages for infringements, real or marginal.

Mobility was seen to good effect when lock Ray Allen sliced through for a 45m try in the 42nd minute. Hooker Mark Gliddon also scored near the post and centre Brad­ley Morgan added two conversions and a penalty.

The Reserves won 22­14 in a performance which more closely resembled their potential, while the Colts lost a close one 22-28.  Open 2’s d Slacks Creek 20-6 while the Open 4’s prevailed 30-6 over the Boundary Hotel. 

Best players, Open 4’s – Brendan McGuffin and Jimmy Edwards;  Open 2’s – Steve Owen and Paul Lineburg;  Colts – Kurt Tanks and Matthew Hayes;  Reserves – Dean Penrose and Brett Gant;  A’s – Dennis Lewis and Brad Nairn.

The player of the weekend was Brendan McGuffin and a special award to Steve Dittmar.

Scorers: Wynnum Manly 14 (R.Allen, M.Gliddon tries, B.Morgan 3 goals) defeated Logan City 10 (D.Hughes, B.Finch tries, Hughes goal).

 

Round 11 – 21/6/92

Easts 22 d Wynnum Manly 0 (Langlands Park)

The gap between an established side and a developing team was evident at Langlands Park on Sunday when competition leaders Easts Tigers the Wynnum Seagulls rugby league side 22-0.

The final score did not reflect the intensity of the struggle nor indicate the speed at which the game was played.  However, Tigers coach John Lang, hailed his team defensive effort as the best this season.  Easts managed to finish off their scoring opportunities while promising Seagulls attack was contained by good cover defence.

Outstanding for the Baysiders were front rowers Jeff Wittenburg and Craig Greenhill, while the centre pairing of Brad Morgan and Ricky Taylor were best in the backs.

The Reserve Grade served notice that they will trouble every side the second round although they went down 8-30 to another competition leading team in Easts.  Seagulls front rower Terry White was rampant in attack and really showed what a class player he can be, free of injury.

The Open 2’s defeated Redlands 22-20, while the Open 4’s defeated Rochedale 32-4.  Best player awards were, Open 2’s – Paul Potter, Gavin Eastham and Open 4’s – Garry Sloan and Michael Modini.  In Colts it was Michael McLaghlin and Danny McAllistar, Reserves was Chris Searle and Terry White and in the A Grade Brad Morgan and Craig Greenhill.  The League club award went to Jeff Wittenberg and Player of the Weekend was Terry White.

Scorers: Easts 22 (G.Street, A.McGowan, P.Green, P.Anderson tries, P.Mullival 3 goals) defeated Wynnum Manly nil.

 

Round 12 – 28/6/92

F/Valley 42 d Wynnum Manly 20 (Neumann Oval)

Wynnum Seagulls A Grade rugby league side needs to overcome the setbacks of the past two fixtures as it prepares for a crucial match against Brothers at Kougari Oval on Sunday.  The Baysiders are now one win out of the four and the prospects of a semi-fi­nal berths will be enhanced if they can recapture their best form. 

The recent controversy over learn selection’s and any individual tendencies must be set aside this weekend for a ded­icated effort from the club as a whole. Valleys got the jump on the Seagulls at Neumann Oval on Sunday with two early penalty goals and soon after won a “lottery” with a converted try from a bomb near the posts. This early good fortune effectively gave the Diehards a 10 point start with as many minutes elapsed and it was al­ways going to be difficult to retrieve the situation. To their credit the locals played with all of their characteristic luck, howev­er at the end of the day the scoreboard read Valleys 42-Seagulls 20.

Alfonso Miranda’s Reserve Grade side defeated fourth-placed Valleys 19-8 in a highly entertaining game. Coach Miranda was pleased with the result and in addition won the dou­bles’ payout for first scorers in A Grade-Colts coach Darryl Baker felt his charges showed much improvement with a spirited performance before Val­ley finished strongly to record a 42-14 win.  Open 2s lost 12-22 to Chardon’s and Open 4s beat Mount Gravatt 14-12.

Best player awards: Open 4s – Gary Beattie, Jimmy Edwards: Open 2s – Graham Flately, Colin Krueger.  Special Award – Paul Cotter. Colts -Michael McLachlan. Shayne Brunton.  Reserves – Duncan McDonald-Kerr, Darren Whipps.  A’s – Danny Grimley, Ray Allen.  Leagues Club Award Brad Nairn, Play­er of the Weekend, Steve Malt.  

Scorers: Valleys 42 (B.Daunt 3, T.O’Neill, D.Bourke, G.Kerr, J.Hanna tries, Kerr 7 goals) defeated Wynnum Manly 20 (D.Penrose, D.Jensen, S.Plath, D.Whipps tries, B.Morgan, R.Taylor goals).

 

Round 13 – 5/7/92

Wynnum Manly 22 d P/Brothers 14 (Kougari Oval)

Wynnum Seagulls A Grade rugby league side kept their semi-final hopes alive with a well constructed 22-14 win over Brothers at Kougari Oval on Sunday.

The Reserve Grade provided an ideal lead up to the main clash by lowering the colors (22-14) of a higher placed team (Brothers) for the second week in succession.  Idyllic conditions ensured that no bayside sup­porter left Kougari Oval unsatisfied and interest now focuses on this Sunday’s clash with Ipswich at the Ipswich Reserve.

Seagulls A’s got down to business after weathering an early onslaught from the bigger Brothers team.  Mobility and good backing up provided the key.  Halfback Steve Plath played most intelligently and centre Dale Jensen produced a second half tack­ling exhibition which will remain seared in the mem­ory.

A feature of the Reserve grade clash was the goal and general kicking of second-rower Brett Gant.  Gant kicks as well as anyone in the competition and this was emphasised with a second half field goal from halfway.

Coach Bob Hodson’s Open 4s beat a Brisbane deaf side 56-0 while Kevin Brooks’ Open 2s defeat­ed Browns Plains 24-22.  The Colts lost 42/ 10. 

Best players: Open 4s – Peter Thomas, Gary Beattie;  Open 2s – Scott Maunder, Graham Flat­ley;  Special Award – Mark Lillicrap;  Colts- Kurt Tanks, David Smallbone;  Reserves – Jason Predl, Duncan MacDonald-Kerr;  A’s – Justin Power, Mark Gliddon;  Leagues Club Award – Steve Plath; Player of the Weekend – Dale Jensen.

Scorers: Wynnum Manly 22 (S.Plath 2, B.Morgan, C.Greenhill tries, Morgan 3 goals) defeated Brothers 14 (J.Adams, S.Maguire tries, Maguire 3 goals).

 

Round 14 – 12/7/92

Wynnum Manly 32 d Ipswich 14 (North Ipswich Reserve)

The Ipswich Jets were consigned in the slipstream of the Wynnum Seagulls as the bay­siders surged to a 32-14 win at Ipswich Reserve on the weekend.  As a consequence the locals preserved their semi-final pros­pects.  However, a much sterner test of the Seagulls’ resolve awaits this Sunday when the Southern Suburbs Magpies take to Kougari Oval.  Souths, Wynnum and Valleys are locked in fourth spot on the ladder with just four fixtures to be contested.

More than one loss by any of these sides may be tantamount to a knockout blow.

Seagulls coach Gary Seaton was pleased with the result against Ipswich but felt his team would need to play in a tighter, more controlled style as each of the remaining games takes on the character of a showdown.  “Some of the flourishes we got away with against Ipswich still need to be eliminated against the better sides.” Seaton said.

Centre Darren Whipps pro­vided the cutting edge for the A team with some scintillating running while the quiet achiever five-eighth Danny Grimley was once again sound.  Captain and second rower Brad Nairn was compensated for a tireless effort with two tries.  Winger Brad Morgan kicked six goals from six to follow up his three from three the previous week.  Halfback Steve Plath sus­tained a dislocated elbow and may be in doubt for the Souths clash.

The reserve grade defeated bottom placed Ipswich 50-6 in what turned out to be a romp. This however should not dis­guise the excellent late season form of the reserves who are, as predicted, troubling opponents irrespective of their position on the points table.

Winger Dennis “Boots” Lewis came infield on one occasion for a pre-emptive tackle on the Ipswich centre and evoked mem­ories of the devastating defensive tactics of the fiery British flanker Mike Sullivan.

Open 4’s defeated Waterford 22-18 while the Open 2’s defeated St Paul’s 26-16.  Bob McMullen’s U18’s won 30-12 over Logan City.

Scorers: Wynnum Manly 32 (B.Nairn 2, D.Jensen, D.Penrose, D.Whipps tries, B.Morgan 6 goals) defeated Ipswich 14 (R.Williams, P.Spark tries, B.Landrigan 3 goals).

 

Round 15 – 19/7/92

Wynnum Manly 24 d Souths 22 (Kougari Oval)

Souths did everything they could to gain the two premiership points with a last minute victory, however Wynnum managed to hold on at the end with a 24-22 victory at Kougari Oval. 

In the past two weeks Souths had pulled of victories in the last minute of each matcher Easts and Valleys, but it was Wynnum who had the last laugh with lock Brett Gant kicking a penalty goal two minutes from the full time siren.  

The win takes the Seagulls to fourth position on 18 points and with three matches remaining only need to on or maybe two games to take Wynnum finals football.

Coach Gary Seaton was very happy with the win, but was not happy with Wynnum conceding a 16 point margin in the second half of this match.  “We are in the semi-final hunt, but this is not they way semi-finalists play,” Seaton said.

Seasoned 31 year old prop Darryl Jenner really held things together for the Seagulls, he will be an asset to this young team if they are to make the semi-finals.

Best players for Wynnum was hooker Mark Gliddon, centre Ricky Taylor and skipper Brad Nairn.  This was the biggest crowd seen at Kougari this season, with a groundswell of support from the Wynnum Manly community.

Scorers: Wynnum Manly 24 (D.Grimley 2, D.Jensen, D.Whipps tries, B.Morgan, B.Gant goals) defeated Souths 22 (P.Nocon 2, M.Rockley tries, R.Hastle 5 goals).

 

Round 16 – 26/7/92

Wynnum 16 drew with Wests 16 (Kougari Oval)

Kougari Oval will be the scene of another epic rugby league con­frontation this Sunday when fourth placed Wynnum Seagulls duel with third placed Northern Suburbs Devils.  The Baysiders are just one premier­ship point clear of Souths following their 16-all draw with second placed Wests on the weekend.  Semi-final prospects hang in the balance with just two fixtures remaining.  There is no comfort zone for the locals.

Wynnum will have a home ground advantage against Norths and the side has proven to be the season’s big improvers. Seagulls coach Gary Seaton predict­ed the match of the season for his side.  “It’s crucial for Norths but it’s crucial for us too. To stay in fourth spot.” Seaton said.  “We’re just a bunch of battlers and the hardest thing has been to get the guys to believe in themselves, and that’s starting to happen now.”

Norths coach Dave Brown hopes a win against Wynnum this week and Ipswich next week will close a one point gap between the Devils and Wests, on second spot with 23 points.  Whatever happens from here on, the abiding memory of the season will be the in the roar courage of the youthful green and red 13.

Sunday’s match, the Seagulls were down 12-2 late in the first half with their hooker Mark Gliddon sent off in questionable circumstances and then clawed their way back to a situation where Wests managed to equalise just 17 seconds from full time.

The x-factor in the club’s success this season has been the magic support of bayside rugby league followers.  Tribute also should be made to chief sponsor Bryan Byrt Ford and sleeve sponsor Waterloo Travel. There are many others, who deserve mention.

Other results: Reserve grade moved into equal fourth spot with a convincing 24/12 win over West’s: Colts d West’s 36-24; Open 2s lost 22-26 Richlands; Open 4s d Rathdowney 36-16.

Scorers: Wynnum Manly 16 (D.Jensen 2, J.Power tries, B.Morgan 2 goals) drew with Wests 16 (M.Maguire 2, G.Strutton tries, J.Green 2 goals).

 

Round 17 – 2/8/92

Wynnum Manly 30 d Norths 12 (Kougari Oval)

Wynnum Seagulls A Grade managed a feat worthy of the Olympic fortnight when they put the Norths Devils to the sword 30-12 at Kougari Oval on Sunday. 

However the local rugby league team still needs to win the final fixture against Redcliffe this Sunday to be assured of a semi-final spot as Souths remain one point behind on the table.  The clash of the Baysiders also will determine who retains the Wynnum Herald Cup for this year.

The best crowd of the year (about 3000) witnessed some exhilarating attack and staunch defence by the Seagulls. Federal Member for Bowman Con Sciacca was moved to declare: “This was as good as the golden years, the old Wynnum Manly spirit is back”.

Norths president Bob Bax said: “Wynnum were much too good, they outclassed us in the forwards and outgunned us in the backs”.

The win was a confirmation of the old adage, they can because they think they can.  Coach Gary Seaton has carefully nurtured this self-belief while the training programs of Jim Ryan’s should be made at the have ensured the Seagulls play each game to the end.

John Crowley. Principal of the club’s major sponsor Bryan Byrt Ford cancelled a fishing trip to attend the match and later met the players. Mr. Crowley was impressed with the total commitment and exciting back line and said: “It was a great win, they’re 10 foot tall and bullet proof now”.  The club also was pleased to have sleeve sponsors Ray and Monika Rickwood of Waterloo Travel as special guests. The game was televised and the Lang Park Trust/ABC award went to inventive centre Ricky Taylor.

After the final whistle the player’s acknowledged their supporters by doing a lap of honor. Kougari Oval has been the scene of just two losses this season.

Reserve grade made it six wins in a row when they toppled second placed North’s 34-22.

A win against Redcliffe will ensure a semi-final spot or a play off.  Lock Mitchell Watts played with great distinct lion in the Colts gallant 31-36 loss to Norths.  Watts scored 27 of the 31 points and has consummate attacking skills.  Opens 2s won by forfeit while the Open 4s who are assured of the minor premiership, losing 6-23 to Boundary.

Best players: Open 4s Adam Jenner, Peter Thomas; Colts Shayne Brunton, Kurt Tanks;

Reserves – Michael Death, Jeff Wittenberg; A’s – Ricky Taylor. Steve Malt;

Leagues club award (shared) Steve Plath, Brett Gant; Player of the weekend Mitchell Watts.

Scorers: Wynnum Manly 30 (Stephen Plath 3, Ricky Taylor, Dale Jensen. Brad Nairn tries, Brett Gant 5 goals) defeated Norths 12 (G.Rynne, D.Duncan tries, G.Harvey 2 goals).

 

Round 18 – 9/8/92

Redcliffe 19 d Wynnum Manly 6 (Dolphin Oval)

The Wynnum Seagulls will contest both the A and Reserve Grade knock­out semi-finals at Lang Park on Sunday.  The A’s will play Norths at 3pm while the Reserves will play Souths at 1.30pm. The sense of occasion will not be lost on A’s coach Gary Seaton who was a member of the Wynnum Manly team which se­cured the club’s first A Grade premiership from an identical position 10 years ago.

Hopes will be high despite the A’s 6-19 loss to Redcliffe over the weekend. Redcliffe won the toss and established a commanding first half lead aided by a west wind of gale proportions.  The Dolphins fully deserved the win and the spoils of the Wynnum Herald Cup but one was left pondering the vagaries of a toss of a coin in such conditions.

Club president Graham Smith cau­tioned that the As would need to improve their kicking game and use of the elements for the semis while Seaton felt that his team had performed well below par. Certainly the Reserve Grade had cause to be confident with another favorable re­sult 24-6 to make it eight wins from nine in the second round and the A’s have proved they have the qualities to match it with the best in this competition.

The Seagulls most loyal supporters Les and Pam Luke will attend the semi-finals this Sunday as they have attended every Wynnum game for the past 20 years.  Pam was most optimistic: “The boys will be just great at Lang Park – They will sail in – They’ve always been the under­dogs.”

Terry White put in another dynamic performance.  White’s mobility and potential to score tries from around halfway might just qual­ify him as the prototype of the front rower for the Year 2000.

The intention at the season’s start was to restore pride in the club jersey and bay­siders can be assured that this goal has been achieved.  Officials will be hoping for massive sup­port for the locals during the semi-final campaign.  It would be ideal if the spirit of 1982 could be recaptured when, for the brief shining moments of the finals, the bayside area resembled a ghost town.

Other results: Open 2’s – 12-all with Red­lands, Open 4’s defeated Rochedale 42-4, U18’s lost 14-8 to Easts.  These Wynnum teams are also semi­final bound.

Best players: U18’s – Phillip Butler;  Open 4s Steve Sloane, Collin Kruger: Open 2’s – Graeme Flately, Gavin Eastham, John Elisaia;  Colts – Tony Muir, Leon Wilson;  Reserves – Chris Searle, Mike McLennan, Terry White; A’s Justin Power, Steve Malt;  Leagues Club Award and Player of the Weekend Terry White.

Scorers: Redcliffe 19 (J.Moultrie 2, S.Pringle, D.Watson tries, Pringle goal, R.Clark field goal) defeated Wynnum Manly 6 (J.Power try, B.Gant goal).

 

Knockout Semi-Final – 16/8/92

Norths 18 d Wynnum Manly 12 (Lang Park)          

Wynnum Seagulls first grade players hung up their boots for the season after a gallant but unfruitful effort against Norths in the Winfield Cup knock-out semi-final at Lang Park.

Norths won 18-12 but in the final minutes it seemed as though the Seagulls could scrap through.  Wynnum coach Gary Seaton is unsure if he will continue next season though.  He praised the efforts of a young side that gave 100%.  “The commitment given to me during the yearend today was excellent.  I am proud of everyone of them,” Seaton said.

Wynnum’s points came from three tries as the side was unable to convert throughout 80 hard fought minutes in their first semi-final outing since 1987.

Wynnum was shell shocked as Norths raced away to a 12-0 lead with superb ball work orchestrated by veteran Darryl Duncan, but the Seagulls responded with controlled attacker two tries that brought the score to 12-8.  A runaway try just before halftime gave Norths a comfortable 18-8 lead at the break.  Play see-sawed in the second half with the Devils failing to score as Wynnum found its feet.

When Duncan was sent to the sin bin or 10 minutes in the final stages of the game for a high tackle on Wynnum skipper Brad Nairn, the Seagulls exploited Norths leaderless side for forward Brett Gant to crash over the line a spectacular display of ball handling.

A scrum penalty in Norths quarter just 90 seconds from full time hooter enabled Wynnum to mount another determined attack but it ended up in disappointment as winger Brendan Brown was tackled into touch just short of the line.

The Lion hearted Steve Malt racked up 37 tackles while Nairn recorded 36.

Scorers: Norths 18 (Brett Kelso, Mark Kellaway, Troy Evans tries: Guy Harvey 3 goals) d Wynnum Manly 12 (Justin Power, Brad Morgan, Brett Gant tries).