Rnd 22 - Ron Massey Cup - Match Review

Western Suburbs tuned up for September with a physical 48-26 win over Burwood North Ryde last Sunday at Five Dock Park.

Western Suburbs needed only five minutes to open the scoring, a break down the right sent back left by the Magpies for Sam Aiga to score under the posts. Dayne Craig added the relatively simple conversion for a 6-0 lead.

Burwood replied after ten minutes, a penalty setting up some good field position, halfback James Coote showing nifty footwork to slice through the Magpie line. David Atuau added the extras to knot the scores.

Burwood failed to complete their set from the restart, putting the ball down on the third tackle. The ensuing scrum saw Wests set down the left, returning the ball after the tackle, Jerome Mose too quick for the cover defence. Craig struck a booming conversion, returning the black and whites to their six point advantage on 14 minutes.

The natives were becoming restless and, after Ryan Jackson reversed a Burwood penalty on the advice of his touchjudge, Anthony Bristow stormed through the Burwood defence to show how it’s done. Craig made it three from three to extend the Magpies’ lead to 18-6 at the quarter mark.

This time it was Wests’ turn to fail to complete after the restart, James Livock atoning for the two shoulder charge penalties he gave away earlier to emulate Bristow’s effort just a minute before. Atuau split the uprights, Burwood back to within six.

Joe Uluibau’s frustrations boiled over after 25 minutes, Ryan Jackson dispatching him to the sin bin. Wests nearly scored off the ensuing set, but Dayne Craig had the ball dislodged over the line.

Burwood suddenly found themselves confronting a debacle, Joe Flint dispatched for a shoulder charge, which incensed James Coote, Ryan Jackson also sending the Burwood halfback for a spell, the home side facing a seven minute period with just ten men.

The Magpies quickly took advantage Trent Jennings flying away down the left, his kick infield touched down just inside the dead ball line by Jerome Mose. Craig kept his 100% record intact, the Magpies taking a 24-12 lead into halftime with the final eight minutes of the first half scoreless.

Burwood registered first points of the second half, David Atuau sneaking through from dummy half close to the line to touch down. James Coote added the extras, and Burwood were making a game of it at 24-18 after 48 minutes.

Burwood failed to capitalise on the chance they gave themselves, as off their next set, Wests spread the ball wide, Tom Morrison showing surprising speed to burst through the line and sell a dummy to Samiu Latu before going in under the posts. Dayne Craig converted, and Wests again had a 12 point advantage, this time 30-18.

Discipline was an issue for both sides, and a swinging arm penalty against Burwood allowed Dayne Craig a chance to extend the Magpies lead, which he did with ease, to 32-18 with 23 minutes remaining.

Wests continued to show plenty of initiative in possession, Vieru Mapesone slicing through on the right side and scoring the Magpies’ sixth of the day. Dayne Craig swung the conversion wide, though, the Magpies ahead 36-18 after an hour.

There was  a sliver of hope left for Burwood, as a looping pass found James Livock, the Burwood giant bumping off an attempted tackle before shooting 50 metres in a surprisingly quick run to score in the corner. James Coote’s conversion attempt barely got off the ground, Wests ahead by 14 points with 12 minutes remaining.

With a little under 12 minutes remaining, Nu Akeripa and John Kite were both dispatched for ten minutes, although nobody seemed to know why, given the eventuating penalty went to Burwood for a high tackle.

Burwood weren’t done with, Blake Dunscombe diving over to keep Burwood’s faint hopes alive. David Atuau swung the kick wide to leave Burwood ten in arrears and, from the restart, Burwood again grounded the ball, Ronnie Palumbo catching everyone off guard by playing the whistle, and sweeping up the crumbs to go over untouched beneath the sticks, the score out to 42-26 as Trent Jennings slotted the goal with five minutes on the clock.

James Livock found himself in the limelight yet again with three minutes remaining, this time for a late challenge on Vieru Mapesone, Fred Tevago breaking his tryscoring duck in the final game of the regular season adjacent to the uprights from the next set. Trent Jennings added the extras as the bell sounded, Wests running out convincing 48-26 winners.

WESTERN SUBURBS 48 (Jerome Mose 2, Sam Aiga, Anthony Bristow, Tom Morrison, Vieru Mapesone, Ronnie Palumbo, Fred Tevago tries; Dayne Craig 6 from 7, Trent Jennings 2 from 2) defeated BURWOOD 26 (James Livock 2, James Coote, David Atuau, Blake Dunscombe tries; David Atuau 2 from 3, James Coote 1 from 2)

Penalties: Wests 10 Burwood 8

Halftime: Wests 24 Burwood 12

WESTERN SUBURBS

1. Sam Aiga

2. Tala Mapasone

3. Sione Alofi

6. Trent Jennings

5. Jerome Mose

4. Nu Akeripa

7. Vieru Mapasone

8. Soni Paasi

9. Dayne Craig

17. Fred Tevago

11. Tom Morrison

12. Rusty Bristow

13. Luke Williams

10. Tunui Maurangi

16. Ronnie Palumbo

20. Andrew Vela

22. Cruise Iosefa

BURWOOD

1. Samiu Latu

12. Kava Utoikamanu

23. Joe Uluibau

25. Rory Brownlie

5. Mitch Henderson

15. Scott Williams

7. James Coote

17. John Kite

9. David Atuau

20. Kilifi Tia-Kilifi

10. James Livock

16. Ilija Radan

13. Joe Flint

8. Brendan Tarrant

18. Jayson Gerecs

21. Mitch Devine

24. Blake Dunscombe

UPDATE: BURWOOD GAME VENUE CHANGE

As of late tonight, NSWRL has advised that TG Milner Field is now closed.

Consequently, the RMC game betwen Wests and BNRU as well as the Sydney Shield game between East Campbelltown and BNRU have been moved to Five Dock Park, Park Rd, Five Dock. Kick off times remain as originally scheduled.

WSDRLFC apologise for the late notice, but this was only advised to us late today.

RIP Maria Szynal

Long time Wests Magpies supporter and member Maria Szynal passed away on Monday, she was 92.

After arriving in Australia in 1950 from Germany and eventually building a residence in Toongabbie, Maria adopted the Magpies as her local team. Until her very last days her fridge always had a sticker of the proud Magpie on it and even though she could no longer attend games, she still loved being informed about the teams performance.

Her funeral will be at Pine Grove, Minchinbury on Tuesday.

Western Suburbs Presentation Night

Come along and join us and congratulate your Magpies for their hard work in season 2014!

Player in Focus - Ronnie Palumbo

Our 2014 player profile series wraps up with our Mr Fix it, Ronnie Palumbo, who has seemingly worn every possible hat for the Magpies this season!

Position: Centre or back row (That's not what the programme said!

Height: 185cm

Weight: 97kg

Date of Birth: 22 April 1991

Which NRL team did you follow as a kid? Cronulla (I'm sorry)

Which junior club did you play for? Campbelltown Harlequins

What is your earliest football memory? We went through the season unbeaten, then lost the grand final 40-0 (That's heavy)

What advice would you give to young players? Go hard or go home!

What sport would you play if not rugby league? Boxing

What is the best advice you have received? Nobody gives you what you want, you have to earn it.

What was your first job? Labourer

What is your greatest fear? Being fearful!

Which three people would you invite to dinner? Floyd Mayweather, Manny Pacquio and a referee! (Brings new meaning to food fight!)

What's the worst thing on your Ipod? Cotton Eye Joe! (That's not bad actually!)
What is your most embarrassing moment? Walking into a glass door and being put on my ass!

Rnd 22 - Ron Massey Cup - Team List

Western Suburbs will take on Burwood-North Ryde United at TG Milner Field on Sunday, 31 August.

Kick-off: 3.00pm

Referee: Ryan Jackson

UNITED - 1. SAMIU LATU 2. JORDAN TONGAHAI 3. MITCH STEVENS 4. DAN PHILLIPS 5. MITCH HENDERSON 6. NYKE-AARON ZAMMIT 7. JAMES COOTE 8. BRENDAN TARRANT 9. TUILOMA ATUAU 10. JAMES LIVOCK 11. ANDREW EMELIO © 12. KAVA UTOIKAMANU 13. JOE FLINT 14. JOSH PHILLIPS 15. SCOTT WILLIAMS 16. ILIJA RADAN 20. KILIFI TIA-KILIFI COACH: MICK HABIB

WESTS – 1. SAM AIGA 2. TALA MAPASONE 3. SHAWN CRAIG 4. NU AKERIPA 5. JEROME MOSE 6. TRENT JENNINGS 7. VIERU MAPASONE 8. SONI PAASI 9. DAYNE CRAIG 10. MASON TALOLUA 11. TOM MORRISON 12. RUSTY BRISTOW 13. LUKE WILLIAMS 16. RONNIE PALUMBO 17. FRED TEVAGO 22. CRUISE IOSEFA 23. SHANE LALOGAFAU COACH: LEO EPIFANIA

Match Report Round 21 Ron Massey Cup - Wests V Cabramatta

Cabramatta completed a miraculous comeback, pipping Western Suburbs 38-34 at New Era Stadium last Sunday.

Cabramatta were on the board inside three minutes, a poor last tackle from Wests on the last allowing Cabramatta to establish some good field position, Tupou Kavaefiafi being put away down the left wing before chipping over Sam Aiga to touch down, Cabramatta ahead 4-0 after Hala Katoa’s unsuccessful conversion attempt.

The Magpies hit back on the quarter hour, as Nu Akeripa popped an inside ball up for a steaming Sam Aiga, who was too quick and strong for the cover defence. Dayne Craig slotted the kick with aplomb for a 6-4 advantage to the visitors.

Wests won a penalty off the restart and, with ruthless efficiency, found a gap in the Two Blues line, Dayne Craig backing up to touch down. Craig converted his own try, the Magpies ahead 12-4 at the quarter.

Cabra were quickly collapsing, another break, this time down the right, saw Tala Mapesone kick inside, Sam Aiga leaping high to bag his second. Dayne Craig puts the kick wide, Wests getting away to a 16-4 lead after 23 minutes.

Wests saw red as Jeff Hartup marched Sam Aiga to the bin for a professional foul on 28 minutes, Cabramatta taking immediate advantage as Chris Taripo snapped up a grubber in behind the line to score in the corner. Hala Katoa again put the kick wide, Wests up 16-8 with ten minutes until halftime.

Playing shorthanded was no issue for Western Suburbs as Jerome Mose was the beneficiary of a Cabramatta error, Mose touching down in the corner on 33 minutes. Craig’s kick was again offline, Western Suburbs regaining their 12 point advantage at 20-8.

The 12 man Wests outfit was every bit as dangerous as the 13 man edition, Vieru Mapesone making another break down the right before a passing exchange allowed Luke Williams to dive over to put Wests out to a 2x-8 lead, Craig’s kick off target.

The Magpies were flying high and finished with their sixth try, Tala Mapesone bursting onto a kick to grab a well deserved try of his own, Wests ahead 28-8 at the break after Trent Jennings, filling in for a rested Dayne Craig, shaved the upright.

Cabramatta needed to be first on the bard after the break and succeeded, Adrian Ha’angana burrowing over after a penalty for a late tackle. Hala Katoa made it third time lucky five minutes into the second half, Wests pulled back to 28-14.

Cabramatta continued their climb back into the match, Chris Taripo leaping high to snaffle up a bomb to go around under the posts. Hala Katoa converted from in front to further reduce the deficit to eight points.

Cabramatta made it three for the second half after an intercept set up possession in centre field, Saxon Fischer-Gray weaving and ducking through to go 50 metres to score under the sticks, Cabramatta right back in the game at 28-26 down after Katoa potted the simple kick.

Cabramatta completed their Lazarus-like comeback off the restart, Luke Lavender backing up down the middle to go 45 metres to score, the home side taking a 32-28 lead courtesy of Hala Katoa’s kick from in front.

Cabramatta were proving unstoppable as a penalty for a mid air tackle on an attacking player allowed Cabra to set up, Morris Higham going through a gap to score. Hala Katoa made it 5 from 7 and 38-28 to the home side with seven minutes on the clock.

Wests hit straight back from a Cabra knock on, Tala Mapesone going 60 metres and rolling over with momentum to score. Craig finally had some luck from the touchline, splitting the uprights and setting up a grandstand finish in the final five minutes, but Wests could not find a way through, Cabra holding on for a 38-34 win.

CABRAMATTA 38 (Chris Taripo 2, Tupou Kavaefiafi, Adrian Ha’angana, Saxon Fischer-Gray, Luke Lavender, Morris Higham tries; Hala Katoa 5 from 7) defeated WESTERN SUBURBS 34 (Sam Aiga 2, Tala Mapesone 2, Dayne Craig, Jerome Mose, Luke Williams tries; Dayne Craig 3 from 6, Trent Jennings 0 from 1)

Penalties: Wests 5 Cabramatta 7

Halftime: Wests 28 Cabramata 8

WESTERN SUBURBS

1. Sam Aiga

2. Tala Mapasone

3. Shawn Craig

16. Ronnie Palumbo

5. Jerome Mose

4. Nu Akeripa

6. Vieru Mapasone

8. Soni Paasi

9. Dayne Craig

11. Mason Talolua

13. Rusty Bristow

 19. Trent Jennings

21. Luke Williams

12. Shane Lalogafau

17. Fred Tevago

20. Hayden Johnson

22. Cruise Iosefa

CABRAMATTA

1. Luke Lavender

2. Amanono Tevio

3. Chris Taripo

4. Hala Katoa

20. Tupou Kavaefiafi

6. Jake Watts

7. Jamie Blewitt

22. Andrew Pearn

9. Saxon Fischer-Gray

11. Brad Croad

16. Mitchell Simpson

12. Morris Higham

19. Max Nappa

5. Henry Iuta

13. Adrian Ha’angana

17. Lomio Mafi

 21. Jeremy Safi

Media Statement: Western Suburbs To Manage 2015 Junior Development Programme

Wests Tigers and Wests Magpies have agreed that the management of junior development programs in South-Western Sydney will revert to Wests Magpies from 2015.

Wests Tigers, at the requests of Wests Magpies, have for the past three years managed junior development in South-Western Sydney, including the Western Magpies Harold Matthews and SG Ball teams.

Wests Magpies will be responsible for running the Under 13s, 14s, 15s and 17s programs, along with Harold Matthews and SG Ball sides.

While Wests Magpies will take responsibility for these programs it’s important to note that a clearly defined pathway for young players to reach the NRL remains in place.

Wests Tigers and Wests Magpies will work closely together to ensure that young players have the opportunity to work their way through the grades, progressing from SG Ball to Wests Tigers’ NYC, NSW Cup and NRL sides.

Wests Magpies Board Member Mr Mick Liubinskas said that the organisation is keen to integrate the junior development programs into their existing structure alongside Ron Massey Cup and Sydney Shield, as well as working closely with Western Suburbs Junior Rugby League and Group 6.

“Wests Magpies have made the decision to renew our charter and bring Wests’ junior programs back into the club culture we’ve built, now stretching from Under 13s up to Ron Massey Cup,” said Mr Liubinskas. “The Board would like to thank Wests Tigers for the role they have played in administering the programs for the past three years and we will continue to work closely with the Club.

“It’s great to see so many Wests juniors currently representing Wests Tigers at NRL level and we look forward to this continuing for many years to come,” he said.

Wests Tigers CEO Grant Mayer said that the Club is committed to supporting long-term junior development programs.

“Wests Tigers are pleased that Wests Magpies are once again leading the charge in junior development in South-Western Sydney,” said Mr Mayer. “We will continue to support junior development across our footprint"

Player in Focus - Cruise Iosefa

We're almost at the end of the regular season, which means we enter the final player profiles of 2014! Our penultimate catch-up is with Cruise Iosefa!

Position: Utility

Height: 180cm

Weight: 98cm

Date of Birth: 4 September 1991

Which NRL team did you follow as a kid? Parramatta

Which junior club did you play for? Cabramatta

What is your earliest football memory? Getting sin binned in my first game! (Such a well behaved boy!)

What advice would you give young players? Never give up!

What spoert would you play if not rugby league? Athletics

What is the best advice you have received? Back yourself!

What was your first job? Teacher's aide

Which three people would you invite to dinner? J Lo, Beyonce, Christy Mack and Rhonda Rousey (Errr, can we include that third one?)

What is your greatest fear? Being rejected

What's the worst thing on your Ipod? Miley Cyrus (Yep, that's bad...)

What is your most embarrassing moment? Crapping myself in kindy! (Well, it was kindy so it isn't that bad!)

Rnd 21 - Ron Massey Cup - Team List

Western Suburbs will face Cabramatta at New Era Stadium on Sunday, 24 August at 3pm.

Referee: Jeff Hartup

TWO BLUES - 1. LUKE LAVENDER 2. AMANONO TEVIO 3. CHRIS TARIPO 4. HALA KATOA 5. HENRY IUTA 6. JAKE WATTS 7. JAMIE BLEWITT 8. KEM SERU 9. SAXON FISCHER-GRAY 10. ENI FOLAU 11. BRAD CROAD 12. MORRIS HIGHAM 13. ADRIAN HA’ANGANA 15. PIERCE SAPSFORD 16. MITCHELL SIMPSON 17. LOMIO MAFI 21. JEREMY SAFI COACH: JASON WILLIAMS

WESTS – 1. SAM AIGA 2. TALA MAPASONE 3. SHAWN CRAIG 4. NU AKERIPA 5. JEROME MOSE 6. VIERU MAPASONE 15. JACOB FOLENT 8. SONI PAASI 9. DAYNE CRAIG 10. TUNUI MAURANGI 11. MASON TALOLUA 12. SHANE LALOGAFAU 13. RUSTY BRISTOW 16. RONNIE PALUMBO 17. FRED TEVAGO 20. HAYDEN JOHNSON 22. CRUISE IOSEFA COACH: LEO EPIFANIA

Position Vacant - General Manager, Football Operations

Western Suburbs Magpies is a proud & distinguished Club established in 1908. Western Suburbs played their first premiership game on 20 April 1908 against fellow ‘Foundation Club’ Balmain Tigers. In what may be a twist of fate, all these years later our Clubs united to form Wests Tigers. Whilst we no longer compete at the elite level, we continue to maintain our proud traditions & history by developing talented local junior representative rugby league players, providing them a pathway to the elite NRL competition through Wests Tigers.

We are looking for a General Manager who has a demonstrated successful track record running a District Rugby League Club at an Executive level. The successful candidate will report directly to the Board of Directors.

Primary Objective – General Manager, Football Operations.

o   Provide strong & ethical leadership and assume the responsibility for the management of Wests Magpies to achieve its purpose statement.

o   Grow & nurture Wests Magpies reputation within NSW Rugby League including commercial involvement with Wests Tigers, other associated bodies & organisations.

o   Achieve maximum performance on & off the field from all Wests Magpies RL teams who compete in the Ron Massey Cup, Sydney Shield, SG Ball & Harold Mathew’s competitions.

Essential Criteria.

The General Manager will be responsible for the effective management, control & administration of the Club's business & assets. The successful candidate must demonstrate relevant experience in:

o   Developing a strategic vision to take Wests Magpies forward through strong financial management & leadership, effective planning, coordinating, staffing & decision making.

o   Highly skilled communicator in the written & oral form with proven computer skills.

o   Ability to build relationships with members, volunteers, supporters, sponsors & partners.

o   Working knowledge of Corporate Governance, Risk Management & other relevant Acts of Parliament.

o   Ability to professionally represent Wests Magpies at NSWRL (Delegates meetings & judiciary hearings) & Western Suburbs District Junior Rugby League meetings.

The successful candidate must have a reputation as a person of integrity and who is both energetic and hands-on, focusing on the real issues whilst inspiring, guiding and engaging all stakeholders. We are seeking to appoint an experienced Executive who can manage the outsourcing of medical and other providers in a professional manner ensuring they are delivered in a high quality and timely fashion. Given the nature of the trust this person will combine an accomplished employment history with an impeccable reputation. The remuneration is to be discussed with the successful applicant with the package including a car, mobile telephone and laptop. Please submit your written application and list of referees to admin@westsmagpies.com.au by close of business 12 September 2014.

A Message To Our Supporters And Volunteers

On behalf of  Western Suburbs Magpies family, of which you are all a very important part, I would like to thank you, our supporters, volunteers and fanatics for your ongoing contribution to our Club, both vocal and otherwise.  Round 20 was played on a wet and rainy day away from Sydney but you still arrived in numbers.

I can assure you our players do not take your support and efforts for granted.  They have told me that they love seeing and hearing you during the game.

Well done,

Steve Reeves
General Manager
WSDRLFC

Rnd 20 - Ron Massey Cup - Match Review

The Entrance did whatever they had to do in prevailing 26-24 over a desperately unlucky Western Suburbs side last Saturday at EDSAAC Oval.

Wests got away to the ideal start after just two minutes, a pass off a kick return going to ground, Ronnie Palumbo sweeping up the crumbs to touch down. Dayne Craig pushed the kick wide, the visitors ahead 4-0.

The wet conditions made the ball tough to hold, Luke McInnes going close for the home side on the quarter hour, but Sam Aiga was on hand to knock the ball loose.

Wests extended their lead at the quarter mark, with a try which defied the conditions, a bomb from Vieru Mapesone batted back, with no less than six passes strung together before Jerome Mose touched down on the opposite side of the field. Craig again pushed the kick away, Wests with an 8-0 lead after 20 minutes.

The Entrance was finding little to no success with their passing game, and resorted to their kicking game to apply pressure. The kicking paid dividends just after the half hour, a chip over the top finding Wests unable to turn quickly enough on the soggy surface, Alan Mulia Malau the first on the scene to grab four points. Dave O’Neil nailed the touchline conversion, bring the The Entrance to within two points after 33 minutes.

With less than two minutes before the interval, Wests sought to put on their own try from a kick, but the ball travelled dead. From the ensuing set, The Entrance showed the Magpies how it was done, catching the Magpies unaware as Alan Mulia Malau bolted through to grab his second. O’Neil hooked the kick wide, The Entrance heading to the sheds up by 10-8.

The Magpies came out full of running in the second half and took just six minutes to reclaim their lead, as a last tackle offload from Ronnie Palumbo pinballed around before Nu Akeripa claimed the loose ball to touch down amid protestations from The Entrance for a knock-on. Craig struck his first goal of the day to put Wests ahead 14-10.

The Entrance took ten minutes to return serve, a controversial penalty to The Entrance for a shoulder charge setting up an attacking set, Sam Fioni barging his way over despite Wests protesting a double movement. With the natives getting restless in the wet conditions, Dave O’Neil converted from alongside the posts to put the Tigers back in front 16-14.

Wests rolled the dice on the last tackle after a strong set off a Tigers knock-on and came up trumps, Jerome Mose nabbing his second by forcing his way over less than a metre inside the touchline. Dayne Craig brought the kick through as well as Johnathon Thurston ever could, the Magpies climbing back in front 20-16 with a quarter of the game remaining.

The Magpies were incensed by continued calls against them for high tackles, Rusty Bristow dispatched to the bin by referee Phili[ Sung for repeated team infringements with 19 minutes on the clock. On the ensuing set, Dave O’Neil snuck through on a last tackle grubber to touch down, the scores remaining tied at 20 with 17 to go as O’Neil failed to convert.

With five minutes remaining, Wests looked to set up for a field goal shot, but The Entrance rushed well, forcing Wests into a loose offload, Dave O’Neil swooping to claim the ball and go 90 metres to put The Entrance ahead. O’Neil was successful in converting his own try on this occasion, The Tigers leading 26-20.

Alan Munro voiced his disapproval to the referee over a knock-on call and found himself dispatched for ten. From the penalty, Dayne Craig found his way through The Entrance line to put Wests within two. Unfortunately for the Magpies, Craig shanked the kick badly, The Entrance hanging on for a gutsy 26-24 win.

THE ENTRANCE 26 (Alan Mulia Malau 2, Dave O’Neil 2, Sam Fioni tries; Dave O’Neil 3 from 5) defeated WESTERN SUBURBS 24 (Jerome Mose 2, Ronnie Palumbo, Nu Akeripa, Dayne Craig tries; Dayne Craig 2 from 5)

Penalties: Wests 7 The Entrance 11

Halftime: Wests 8 The Entrance 10

WESTERN SUBURBS

1. Sam Aiga

2. Tala Mapasone

3. Shawn Craig

16. Ronnie Palumbo

5. Jerome Mose

4. Nu Akeripa

6. Vieru Mapasone

18. Soni Paasi

9. Dayne Craig

10. Tunui Maurangi

11. Tom Morrison

13. Rusty Bristow

8. Mason Talolua

12. Hayden Johnson

17. Fred Tevago

19. Trent Jennings

20. Dwayne Lemafa

THE ENTRANCE

1. Grant Nelson

19. Dave O’Neil

3. Alan Mulia Malau

4. Brad Chatfield

5. Perry LeBrocque

6. Adam McInnes

7. Jake Fitzpatrick

8. Ryan O’Hara

9. Scott Jones

20. Sam Fioni

2. Harley Ridge

12. Alan Munro

24. Tyla Hepi

10. Luke McInnes

11. Shane Wooden

14. Matt Hardes

18. Ryan Jowett

URGENT UPDATE: CHANGE IN GAME TIME FOR SATURDAY

UPDATE - HOT OFF THE PRESSES!!!!!

SATURDAY'S KICK-OFF TIME HAS BEEN MOVED TO 3PM!!! Anyone travelling from Sydney should leave by 1pm.
KICK-OFF IS NOW 3PM!!!

Player in Focus - Mason Talolua

This week as the boys prepare to head up the M1, we thought we'd catch up with our gun forward Mason Talolua.

Position: Front Row or Second Row

Height: 185cm

Weight: 100kg

Date of Birth: 5 April 1991

Which NRL team did you follow as a kid? Newcastle

Which junior club did you play for? East Campbelltown Eagles

What is your earliest football memory? Scoring a 5 point try in mod league against Liverpool Catholic Club and losing 85-5 (But YOU scored, right?)

What advice would you give young players? DO YOUR EXTRAS!!!

Which sport would you play if not rugby league? Basketball

What is the best advice you have ever received? Stay focused!!

What was your first job? Store Clerk at Christmas Cave

Which three people would you invite to dinner and why? My idol Michael Jordan, and for singing lessons, Marvin Gaye and Michael Jackson (I'm not 'with it', but even I know that's cool...)

What's the worst thing on your Ipod? Miley Cyrus! (... and there goes your cool cred!)

What was your most embarrassing moment? Ripping my pants at my brother's wedding!

Rnd 20 - Ron Massey Cup - Team List

Western Suburbs will take on The Entrance on Saturday, 16 August, at EDSAAC Oval, Bateau Bay.

Kick-off: 3.00pm

Referee: Philip SungTHE ENTRANCE – 1. GRANT NELSON 2. HARLEY RIDGE 3. ALAN MULIA MALAU 4. BRAD CHATFIELD 5. PERRY LEBROCQUE 6. ADAM MCINNES 7. JAKE FITZPATRICK 8. RYAN O’HARA 9. SCOTT JONES 10. LUKE MCINNES 11. SHANE WOODEN 12. ALAN MUNRO 16. JACOB SAIFITI 14. HAYDEN GREEN 15. RYAN JOWETT 17. DYLAN THEUERJAHR 20. SAM FIONI COACH: JAMY FORBES 

WESTS – 1. SAM AIGA 2. TALA MAPASONE 3. SHAWN CRAIG 4. NU AKERIPA 5. JEROME MOSE 6. VIERU MAPASONE 15. JACOB FOLENT 8. MASON TALOLUA 9. DAYNE CRAIG 10. TUNUI MAURANGI 11. TOM MORRISON 12. SHANE LALOGAFAU 13. RUSTY BRISTOW 16. RONNIE PALUMBO 17. FRED TEVAGO 18. SONI PAASI 22. CRUISE IOSEFA COACH: LEO EPIFANIA

2015 Representative Squad Positions

Western Suburbs District Rugby League Football Club Limited (Wests Magpies) is seeking applications for coaches, managers & trainers for their Harold Matthews and SG Ball junior representative teams for 2015 NB. This advertisement is run in conjunction with the one circulated by Wests Tigers. All applications will be vetted by Wests Magpies.  Wests Magpies have a long & proud tradition dating back to 1908 & are expecting the successful applicant to provide expert training & guidance to our junior rugby league players reflecting the best traditions of the game.

Head Coach & Assistant Coach.
o Applicants must be accredited with a current Level 2 ARL Senior Club Coach
o Applicants must undergo a Working With Children check.
o Applicants are required to submit their resume demonstrating previous coaching experience in a commensurate or higher Position. Your covering letter should include your goals for the position.
o Applicants must hold a Level 1 Sports Medicine Australia or Level 1 ARL First Aid Officers Certificate.

Team Managers
o Applicants must undergo a Working With Children check.
o Demonstrated experience in managing teams up to an including representative teams.
o Possess good verbal and written communication skills.

Trainers/Strength and conditioning coach.
o Applicants must undergo a Working With Children check.
o Applicants must hold current Level 1 strength and coaching certificate and a Level 1 Sports Medicine Australia or Level 1 ARL First Aid Officers Certificate.
o Demonstrated knowledge and experience in up to date strength and conditioning techniques.
o Demonstrated experience in planning and monitoring strength and training programs and player rehabilitation.

Trainers/Strappers
o Medical trainers must hold a Level 2 Sports Medicine Australia or Level 2 ARL First Aid Officers Certificate.
o Assistant trainers must hold a Level 1 Sports Medicine Australia or Level 1 ARL First Aid Officers Certificate.
o Applicants must undergo a Working With Children check.
o Demonstrated experience in up to date strapping and massage techniques and player rehabilitation.

Written applications with current references can be sent to -
Post: General Manager, Wests Magpies, PO Box 642 Liverpool NSW 1870
Email: admin@westsmagpies.com.au
Closing date for receipt of applications - 5pm Friday 29 August 2014. 

Please call 9601 2002 or email admin@westsmagpies.com.au for more information on other coaching positions available, including 13s, 14s, 15s and 17s development coaches.

More information on the Working with Children check can be found at http://www.kidsguardian.nsw.gov.au/Working-with-children/working-with-children-check

Rnd 19 Ron Massey Cup - Match Review

Western Suburbs consolidated their position in the top eight last Saturday with a commanding 46-16 defeat of the Kingsgrove Colts at Hurstville Oval.

Wests opened the scoring in the fourth minute, a penalty giving Wests an attacking chance, with Sam Aiga chiming in from the back to touch down in the corner to put the Magpies up 4-0 with Dayne Craig’s kick going wide.

Kingsgrove held out by holding Wests up for two consecutive tackles, and reaped rewards on their next set, a chip kick put down by Sam Aiga, with Chevy Ellis the beneficiary. Addison Demetriou added the extras, putting Kingsgrove ahead 6-4 after 15 minutes.

The Magpie pressure eventually told, with Kingsgrove overplaying their hand, with the Magpies getting a penalty for a drop-out going into touch on the full. From the tap, Tunui Maurangi forced his way over. Craig slotted the kick from point blank, with Wests reclaiming their four point lead after 28 minutes.

Kingsgrove’s defence fell apart from the restart, Veiru Mapesone going straight through on a 65 metre gallop to touch down. Craig converted from an identical spot to his previous kick, Wests taking a 16-6 lead.

Kingsgrove’s desperation in defence led to a knock on call against them, Wests taking full toll with Nu Akeripa sending Rusty Bristow into a gaping hole on the inside. Dayne Craig pulled the kick away, Wests up 20-4 with five minutes until the interval.

Wests weren’t done, though, as Nu Akeripa burst through the line to put Ronnie Palumbo over. Dayne Craig added the extras, and at halftime, Wests led 26-6.

Kingsgrove opened the second half with a couple of penalties, but their exploration with the ball came undone, Tala Mapesone nabbing an intercept and going 70 metres to touch down after a good footrace with Coleman Edmonds. Dayne Craig missed the kick, Wests ahead 30-6 eight minutes into the second stanza.

Wests nearly went in again shortly after, but Addison Demetriou picked off the kick and surged 50 metres. From the ensuing play the ball, Wests’ line was all at sea, Jayden Tavae going the distance despite a gallant chase from Soni Paasi. Demetriou couldn’t convert, Wests ahead 30-10 with half an hour remaining.

Kingsgrove were getting into a good grind, but last tackle kick found Sam Aiga, who sliced through the line with a glorious step, Rusty Bristow backing up to grab his second of the day. Craig converted from bang in front, extending the Magpies’ lead to 36-10 with 14 minutes remaining.

Kingsgrove started to look dispirited as the game ground to a halt, Mason Talolua taking advantage to bustle his way through four defenders to score. Craig converted, Wests hitting the 4-0 at 42-10 with seven minutes on the clock.

Kingsgrove weren’t going quietly, though, as John Tuivasa-Sheck created space with a good fend and raced 60 metres to score. Demetriou converted from in front to bring the margin back to 42-16 with just a few minutes on the clock.

Wests refused to let the Colts have the last word, though, Keni Gavet on the end of some hot potato football. Veiru Mapesone pulled the kick wide, Wests running out 46-16 winners.

WESTERN SUBURBS 46 (Rusty Bristow 2, Sam Aiga, Tunui Maurangi, Veiru Mapesone, Ronnie Palumbo, Tala Mapesone, Mason Talolua, Keni Gavet tries; Dayne Craig 5 from 8, Veiru Mapesone 0 from 1) defeated KINGSGROVE 16 (Chevy Ellis, Jayden Tavae, John Tuivasa-Sheck tries; Addison Demetriou 2 from 3)

Penalties: Wests 6 Kingsgrove 6

Halftime: Wests 26 Kingsgrove 6

WESTERN SUBURBS

1. Sam Aiga

2. Tala Mapasone

3. Shawn Craig

16. Ronnie Palumbo

5. Jerome Mose

4. Nu Akeripa

6. Vieru Mapasone

17. Fred Tevago

9. Dayne Craig

10. Tunui Maurangi

11. Tom Morrison

13. Rusty Bristow

8. Mason Talolua

7. Peter Ta’afusio

18. Soni Paasi

21. Dwayne Lemafa

22. Keni Gauvet

KINGSGROVE

1. Dwayne Brown

23. Jayden Tavae

3. John Tuivasa Sheck

22. Chevy Ellis

5. Coleman Edmond

19. Danny Alledde

7. Abbas Miskie

8. Billy Tsikrikas

9. Rhys Norman

10. Thibaud Braconnier

15. Addison Demetriou

21. Isaac Creighton

13. Jade Ferguson

11. Pio Sofa

12. Matthew Douglas

16. Cameron Martin

18. Armin Pripuzovic

Player in Focus - Veiru Mapesone

It's time to catch up with one of our recent finds from our SG Ball squad, recently promoted into the RMC: wonderkid Veiru Mapesone!

Position: Five-eighth or halfback

Height: 182cm

Weight: 87cm

Date of Birth: 9 January 1996

Which NRL team did you follow as a kid? Wests Tigers (I feel sooooo old!)

Which junior club did you play for? Eagle Vale-St Andrews

What is your earliest football memory? Scoring five tries so I was rewarded with Maccas! (Gotta love childhood motivation!)

What advice would you give to young players? You've got to believe to achieve!

Which sport would you play if not rugby league? Touch footy or volleyball (That's two volleyballers! What's doing?)

What is the best advice you have received? Never give up!

What was your first job? Labourer

Which three people would you invite to dinner? Beyonce Knowles, Kim Kardashian and Nicki Minaj... for... the... company (Yeah, "company"...)

What is your greatest fear? Failure

What's the worst thing on your Ipod? I don't have one!!! (We're going to dig up something nasty in Veiru's music collection, I can feel it!)

What was your most embarrassing moment? Dropping the ball over the line!

Golf Day - Thursday 25th September

The Western Suburbs Magpies will be holding a Golf Day on Thursday the 25th of September. All welcome! The Ambrose event will be held at Camden Lakeside Country Club.

Rnd 19 - Ron Massey Cup - Team List

Western Suburbs will take on Kingsgrove at Hurstville Oval on Saturday, 9 August.

Kick-off: 2.00pm 

Referee: Ryan Jackson

COLTS – 1. DWAYNE BROWN 2. JAYDEN TAVAE 3. JOHN TUIVASA SHECK 4. JASON BRIOT 5. COLEMAN EDMOND 6. AIDAN CARNEY 7. ABBAS MISKIE 8. BILLY TSIKRIKAS 9. RHYS NORMAN 10. SAM MATAKAIONO 19. JAKE BEETSON 12. MATTHEW DOUGLAS 13. JADE FERGUSON © 14. GEORGE KEATES 15. THIBAUD BRACONNIER 16. CAMERON MARTIN 17. RICHARD POHAHAU COACH: JEREMY SMITH

WESTS – 1. SAM AIGA 2. TALA MAPASONE 3. SHAWN CRAIG 4. NU AKERIPA 5. JEROME MOSE 6. VIERU MAPASONE 15. RONNIE PALUMBO 8. MASON TALOLUA 9. DAYNE CRAIG 10. TUNUI MAURANGI 11. TOM MORRISON 12. LUKE WILLIAMS 13. RUSTY BRISTOW 17. FRED TEVAGO 18. SONI PAASI 19. SHANE LALOGAFAU 20. HAYDEN JOHNSON COACH: LEO EPIFANIA

Rnd 18 - Ron Massey Cup - Match Review

Western Suburbs turned on a clinical display to pummel Mounties 44-6 last weekend at Campbelltown.

Wests got away to the ideal start after just two minutes, a short side move to the left finding Corey Brown with nothing but air in front of him. Dayne Craig nailed the touchline conversion for a 6-0 lead.

Mounties were playing some enterprising football, but dropped the ball at the quarter hour. As time stood still, Corey Brown swooped, picked up the crumbs and travelled 80 metres to touch down. Craig slotted the kick, 12-0 the margin to the home side.

Mounties were finding it difficult to convert their chances, the first denied by the touchjudge after he ruled the ball pulled up short on an attempted 40-20, with a wayward Theo Leato pass heading into touch three minutes later at the 25 minute mark.

Wests were playing a straight, hard running game, but a delightful Cronk-Slater style 1-2 saw Sam AIga burst through the ruck and carry Joey Bond across the line to score. Craig converted, Wests holding their 18-0 lead through to the siren.

Mounties went agonisingly close to opening the scoring in the second stanza, a chip in behind the line bouncing badly for Jerome Mose, but Theo Leato could not ground the ball, referee S]Phil Sung right on the spot to call a knock on.

Mounties’ kicking game was finding some useful territory, their best kick of the game coming five minutes into the second stanza, a bomb shaving the upright n the way down, but Magpies’ custodian Sam Aiga, was equal to the challenge.

Wests used their kicking game more effectively than the visitors, a grubber on the last pinballing between Mounties legs, Veiru Mapesone bolting through to pick up the crumbs and scoring under the posts. Craig converted from in front, and Wests were wowing the crowd at Campbelltown, leading 24-0 after 57 minutes.

The Magpies marched downfield from the restart, a last tackle bomb going straight through Joey Bond, Nu Akeripa scooting around to grab his tenth try of 2014. Craig’s sideline conversion was the first of his kicks to sail wide with a quarter of the game remaining.

Mounties finally found their way to the line with Matt Place on the end of an inside ball, Sam Aiga unable to dislodge the ball as Place touched down under the posts. Brett Lahey’s first kick of the day was straight, Wests leading 28-6 with 15 minutes to play.

Wests took full advantage of the kick-off bouncing dead and, despite Mounties protests of a knock on in gathering the dropout, a Wests right shift found Shawn Craig bullocking through. Brother Dayne found his radar again, the Magpies’ lead back out to 34-6 at the 68th minute.

Wests weren’t done, a short ball from Sam Aiga sending Shawn Craig through again, this time Craig needing support, Tala Mapesone notching one for Wests in support. With Dayne Craig getting an early mark, Corey Brown took the conversion attempt, but pushed it wide, Wests ahead 38-6.

Just to finish it off, Sam Aiga found space down the right side again, Tala Mapesone nabbing his second of the day. Shawn Craig finished off with the conversion, the Magpies running out massive 44-6 winners.

WESTERN SUBURBS 44 (Corey Brown 2, Tala Mapesone 2, Sam Aiga, Veiru Mapesone, Nu Akeripa, Shawn Craig tries; Dayne Craig 5 from 6, Shawn Craig 1 from 1, Corey Brown 0 from 1) defeated MOUNTIES 6 (Matt Place tries; Brett Lahey 1 from 1)

Penalties: Wests 3 Mounties 8

Halftime: Wests 18 Mounties 0



WESTERN SUBURBS

1. Sam Aiga


2. Tala Mapasone


3. Shawn Craig


21. Corey Brown


5. Jerome Mose


4. Nu Akeripa


6. Vieru Mapasone


22. Sonny Bristow


9. Dayne Craig


10. Tunui Maurangi


11. Tom Morrison


12. Rusty Bristow


14. Luke Williams






7. Jack Madden


15. Hayden Johnson


17. Fred Tevago


19. Mason Talolua





MOUNTIES

1. Joey Bond


2. Theo Leato


3. Francis Vaiotu


4. Dave Cahalane


20. Wayne Dargan


6. Matt Place


7. Brett Lahey


13. Adam Tangata


9. Braeden Batiste


10. Rodney Coates


11. Brady Cheshire


12. Kurt Horton


17. Jacob Mayer






8. Uiti Baker


15. Grant Lahey


16. Mitchell Beggs


21. Fred Pakatoa