It may have been a reasonably close game, but last weekends round eight George Tooke Shield match between Boorowa and Boomanulla certainly won't be remembered as a classic encounter.
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In an error riddled match, littered with countless penalties against both sides, it was Boomanulla who prevailed 24-10, however it wasn't a game both coaches will refer to for inspiration in coming weeks.
Both sides showed flare at times only to see their attacking raids breakdown at critical stages.
Boorowa got off to the worst possible start when Boomanulla scored from the kick off.
The conversion was successful and the score was 6-0 after just one minute of play. Fortunately Boorowa didn't make the same mistake off the ensuing kick off.
The Rovers struck back after 8 minutes when Blake Anderson scored a nice try out wide to make the score 6-4 with the conversion waved wide.
Both sides struggled to gain field position for the next 20 minutes with both teams being guilty of attacking raids breaking down at crucial stages.
It was Boomanulla who eventually made the breakthrough in the shadows of half time when centre Gavin Brookman crossed and converted for Boomanulla to go into the break leading 12-4.
After the break, Boomanulla extended its lead to 16-4 inside 3 minutes when centre Gavin Johnston went over.
Brookman converted to make the score 18-4 and it was always going to be a long road back for the locals.
To their credit, the Rovers hung in and their defence was an improvement on their previous outing.
However, several attacking raids by the home side came unstuck just as it looked likely they would bridge the gap.
With just six minutes left, the Raiders sealed it when Trent Holland crossed to make it 22-4. Brookman converted for a 24-4 lead and the game was all but over.
On the stroke of full time, Tom Carnell scored a good try with a barnstorming run which was converted by Mick Hinds for a final scoreline of 24-10 to Boomanulla.
Best for Boorowa were forwards Matt Black, Matt Batt and Tom Carnell who certainly matched the Boomanulla pack.
In the backs, Blake Anderson had another good game on the wing.
The points For Boorowa were Matt Black and Matt Batt with 3 each and Jesse Hall 1.
Jesse Hall had a sensational game to take out the Fabstock man of the match award.
In other results last weekend, Braidwood Bears survived a massive scare from the improving ADFA winning 16-10.
Harden worked hard to record a 22-6 win over Crookwell whilst in the final game North Canberra 24 defeated Bungendore 10.
This week the Rovers start a three game road trip with the first stop against ADFA at Addison oval at 2pm on Saturday.
This game should be a cracker.
ADFA have improved in recent weeks but are still searching for their first win.
The Rovers have only had one win but are capable of much better.
Boorowa will start slight favourites but ADFA will no doubt see this as a very winnable game at home.
In other games this weekend, Crookwell are at home against Gunning Roos in a match the Green Devils should just win.
Boomanulla Raiders take on North Canberra Bears who should be too strong in this one.
The match of the round sees Bungendore Tigers and Harden meet in what should be a cracker.
Home ground advantage should see the tigers get home in a tight one.
Whilst the Rovers may not be at home for a month don't forget to get down the home of the Rovers, the Courthouse Hotel, on Saturday night to share a drink with the team and hopefully celebrate a win.
Go the Rovers.
-Sand Boy
