Buoyed by their maiden triumph in 2021, and refreshed after a general bye, the Lakes United Seagulls are keen to tackle their biggest test in the Tooheys Newcastle Rugby League (Real NRL) this weekend.
Following a strong 20-12 showing against the South Newcastle Lions, the Robbie Payne-coached outfit faces competition frontrunners Central Newcastle Butcher Boys in the NSWRL Denton Cup at St Johns Oval on Sunday 23 May.
It’s a great opportunity for the fledgling Seagulls to show what they’re capable of in elite company.
“We’ve met some heavyweights in the opening six rounds,” Payne said.
“But, the boys have been trying hard every week – and we’ve improved.
“The stats are showing that.
“So, to get the win over the Lions was crucial.
“Souths, themselves, have been struggling a little bit as well, along with us and Wests.
“To secure that first victory just brings a whole lot of confidence to the squad.
“It was really important to us as a club.
“Hopefully, we can get some momentum now – and register a few more wins on the board.
“Central is on top [of the table] and we’re languishing near the bottom, so we’re really looking forward to the challenge.”
Adding further incentive to the clash is the chance to capture the annual Creer Cup.
For the past five years, the Seagulls and Butcher Boys have fought for the spoils, along with any bragging rights on offer.
“It’s a very important day for Lakes and Central,” Payne said.
“Brendan Walsh, who’s tied up with the Seagulls, is one of the owners of Creer Property.
“Every season, the real estate firm donates $500 to the winning team’s charity.
“We play for the Creer Cup twice a year – home and away.
“So, it’s a pretty massive occasion this weekend.
“Both teams usually lift for the match, and for good reason.
“Usually, the charity Brendan picks, with the guidance of the club, has something to do with us in-house.
“In 2020, we did it for pulmonary hypertension, a condition in which high blood pressure affects arteries of the lungs and right side of the heart.
“That disorder touches my daughter.
“In the past, we’ve also supported Harry’s House at Stockton, which is highly-involved with the Kimmorleys, and Ronald McDonald House because some of the boys might have used it.
“However, that’s part of our [Seagulls] community.
“What we do here at Lakes is really look after our own.”
Sunday’s rivals, the Butcher Boys, head the points ladder after only dropping one game so far.
So, Payne’s fully aware of what to expect.
“It will be tough,” he told the Newcastle Weekly.
“Central boasts a lot of experience with Dylan Pythian, Luke Walsh and Junior Roqica in their ranks.
“They have a handy backline with Cam Anderson, too.
“I think with the confidence we got out of the Souths’ win, morale is pretty good here at the moment.
“There is a positive feeling among the place.
“We’re definitely eager to see if we’re up to it.”
The encounter kicks off at 3pm.
Tooheys Newcastle Rugby League
(Round nine draw)
Saturday 22 May –
2pm: Cessnock Goannas v The Entrance Tigers (Cessnock Sportsground)
3pm: Kurri Kurri Bulldogs v South Newcastle Lions (Kurri Kurri Sportsground)
3pm: Maitland Pickers v Macquarie Scorpions (Maitland Sportsground)
4pm: Wyong Roos v Western Suburbs Rosellas (Morry Breen Oval)
Sunday 23 May –
3pm: Central Newcastle Butcher Boys v Lakes United Seagulls (St Johns Oval)
For more sports stories:
