Not only did the Newcastle-Hunter Rugby Union outfit beat competition leaders Southern Lakes Hammerheads 31-0 at Highbrook Park, but popular player Scott Almond made his 100th appearance for the club.

Heading into the round eight fixture, the Hammerheads were undefeated, sitting in first place and their results would indicate that they were the benchmark through the first third of the season. 

The Heelers, in fourth spot, have had a challenging start to the year. 

Due to forfeits, byes and mid-week showdowns, this was the first time in 2018 they have played consecutive Saturdays. 

Despite this setback, the Heelers have been steadily building the momentum needed for later in the year – and couldn’t be happier with the result.

The distance between Muswellbrook and the Hammerheads home of Morisset has challenged both sides over the years, with the Heelers getting the luck of the draw with the first meeting of the season.

The away team was only able to muster a school of 16 Hammerheads and a number of one-eyed supporters to the match. 

In contrast, the Heelers had a full squad on hand with only a few players who weren’t available. 

Muswellbrook started well, dominating possession and getting the better of the field position early. 

Sticking to the planned structures proved fruitful getting two first half tries – one to Ethan Cridland in the 20th minute and the other to Cameron Young close to the break.

But, it wasn’t all the Heelers.

A few simple mistakes in the Muswellbrook half gave Southern Lakes some promising opportunities, but the staunch Heelers defence held them at bay. 

This effort was the theme of the day. 

The boys in green and white, repeatedly, stifled the Hammerheads attack, getting off their line early to meet the attacking team behind their advantage line and shutting them down. 

Muswellbrook went to the break with a 12-0 lead.

The second half played out similar to the first. 

The Hammerheads showed why they have been the benchmark of the competition. 

In one attacking raid shortly after half-time, they pressured the line close to the goal posts. 

Somehow the Heelers were able to shut the play down with Harry Hobden powerfully working through the ruck and forcing the halfback into a mistake, dislodging the ball. 

But, the referee saw this as cynical and issued the captain with a yellow card.

With Hobden off, the team rallied, holding the Hammerheads out and soon turned defence into attack. 

During the skipper’s absence, the Heelers scored two tries in the 42nd and 48th minute. 

Cridland was able to bag his second and Sikeli Votonisoga touched down for his first for the club for a few years. 

Young added one more try in the final stages of the game and generously gave Almond the kicking tee.

Almond calmly slotted the conversion but won’t be joining the coaching staff contrary to the 100 per cent kicking record.

Coach Michael Hall was very happy with the win.

“It was a big turnaround from last week’s game in both attitude and execution,” he said.

“We have still got plenty to work on, but if we continue to stick to structures and be patient, the wins will continue. 

“The most pleasing aspect is the scoreline.

“Five tries to nil is a great day at the office for any rugby team.

“But, the zero points against is indicative of the attitude of the team on the day.”

Coach’s points this week went to Dylan Smith (1), Jason Tyerman and Doug Raphael (2) and three, and players’ player, was shared with Young and Morgan Collins.

The Heelers have another break over the Queen’s Birthday long weekend. 

The next fixture is a home game against Army on June 16.

“This will be our annual Ladies Day and our opportunity as a club to thank the women in our rugby community for all their work, help and patience with their rugby-tragic family members,” Hall said.

“It has been a very ‘bubbly’ day in the past and we encourage all clubmen to support the occasion and let their partners raise a glass and watch the rugby.”

The match will kick off at 3pm with the bar and food available from 2pm.