For the second time in three seasons, the Maitland Pickers are the best “semi-professional” team in NSW Rugby League after capturing the President’s Cup on Sunday.
In an enthralling, but extremely physical encounter, the Tooheys Newcastle Rugby League (Real NRL) premiers accounted for the Hills Bulls 36-12 at CommBank Stadium.
The Pickers claimed the honours in 2020, courtesy of a thrilling 17-16 triumph over the Glebe Burwood Wolves.
However, they did not have an opportunity to defend that title 12 months later, with the COVID pandemic interrupting the competition.
Maitland, who eliminated the Forbes Magpies 52-6 in the semi a week after lifting the Real NRL trophy, started strongly to lead 12-0.
The Bulls hit back, via Tim Robinson, to reduce the margin to 12-6.
But, a Brock Lamb penalty gave the Hunter outfit breathing space at 14-6.
With the game in the balance, Pickers’ centre Matt Soper-Lawler then produced some individual brilliance.
In the dying seconds before the break, and against the run of play, the gifted three-quarter swooped on a loose ball, put his foot to it, and regather to race 70m untouched.
Lamb added the extras for Maitland to enjoy a 20-6 advantage at half-time.
The Pickers continued the rout in the second period.
In the 45th minute, Lamb threw a dummy to halves’ partner Chad O’Donnell and crossed near the uprights.
He made no mistake with the kick, pushing Maitland ahead 26-6.
Hills responded through Damon Smith, and a conversion to Brad Keighran, to trail 26-12.
In the 60th minute, a late hit on Lamb resulted in another penalty, which O’Donnell landed for a 28-12 lead.
Soon after, the five-eighth was on target again, to widen the gap at 30-12.
The Pickers wrapped up the showdown five from full-time when Lamb fired a long pass to put Perry Le Brocque over in the corner. O’Donnell raised the flags and the scoreline to 36-12.
The emphatic victory capped off a brilliant year for Maitland, according to coach Matt Lantry.
“Our main priority was winning the Newcastle Rugby League premiership,” he said.
“And, we did that a fortnight ago.
“However, it’s a great feeling to know we’ve also backed up to claim the President’s Cup again.
“It’s tremendous.
“I’m so proud of the boys and everyone involved in the club, from the committee to the support staff.
“They’ve all deserved it.”
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