SOUTH NEWCASTLE LIONS
- Coach: Andrew “Bobcat” Ryan
- 2023 finish: 2nd
- Wins: 12
- Losses: 4
- Draws: 0
Summary: It was a matter of “oh so close” for South Newcastle in 2023. The Merewether club possessed one of the most balanced squads in the Denton Engineering Cup, from fullback Reeve Howard to retiring prop Brendon Simpson. Plus, coach Andrew “Bobcat” Ryan and his assistants had the Lions purring with 12 wins, including 10 on the trot, to wrap up second position on the ladder. During their brilliant run of form, the side looked unstoppable, knocking over the likes of Wyong (44-20) and Cessnock (22-14).
But, the fairytale ended at the hands of Maitland on Sleapy’s Day in an absorbing contest. That was replicated in the major semi-final in August, with the eventual premiers prevailing by a mere two points, 24-22. South Newcastle bounced back to eliminate Cessnock, however a week later, the Pickers proved too strong in the decider. Still, it was a brilliant season for the Lions under skipper Ryan Glanville.
For more sports stories:
- REAL NRL SEASON REVIEW: Goannas made their presence felt in 2023
- REAL NRL SEASON REVIEW: Good start saw Roos leap above the pack
- REAL NRL SEASON REVIEW: Tigers keen to tame rivals after successful year
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