IT’S been a big couple of weeks for the Muswellbrook Heelers.
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But, the Newcastle Hunter Rugby Union club returned to Earth with a thud last Saturday.
Seven days after knocking over the divisional leaders Southern Lakes 37-7, and celebrating their 50th anniversary in style, the Heelers suffered a shock 12-7 loss to lowly-placed Griffins.
The team’s cause was not helped by a lack of personnel.
“Unfortunately, we had multiple guys out due to illness and work commitments,” coach Mick Hall said.
“However, with the help of a couple of past players we were able to field a team.
“Our boys started off well with an early try to Ethan Cridland but Griffins found their straps not long after and scored two of their own.
“With Griffins leading 12-7, the game was called off early due to a serious injury to our own Tyler Price, who’s had a fantastic season so far and has left massive shoes to fill.
“The whole club wishes ‘Pricey’ a speedy recovery.”
The defeat has seen Muswellbrook slip to third place on the President’s Cup ladder.
Southern Lakes still sit atop the table, courtesy of a 12-7 victory over Cooks Hill 1, on 47 points – ahead of Cooks Hill 1 (39), Muswellbrook (37) and Easts 1 (35).