GROUP 11 secretary Ross McDermott has hailed the pre-season Nines carnival at Parkes on Sunday as a huge success following a bumper turnout from crowds at Northparkes Oval.
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The visiting Maroubra side claimed the title, defeating Group 11 premiers Dubbo CYMS in the decider but the biggest winners were the fans, who turned out in droves to watch a day of thrilling fast-paced action.
"It was fantastic," McDermott said.
"The weather turned out well and the football was different but fast-paced and entertaining so it was a great day."
The Maroubra Seals defeated CYMS 14-10 in the final after they turned on the style early with centre Jarred Hogan and forward Steve Taylor hitting through gaps in the first eight minutes.
Maroubra dominated the possession in the first 10 minutes but Fishies held out what could have been even more tries with some solid defence.
Alex Bonham got Dubbo CYMS on the board two minutes into the second half after a right side attack pushed him into the corner.
CYMS, who beat Forbes in their semi-final 16- 4, began to mount strong attacking moves but a mistake gave Bailey Lang the room to move and the big centre stormed away to score a run-away try which was converted.
Hamish Astill again took his chance in the top flight and scored a good try for the Fishies following rolling forward power but in the end Maroubra were too strong.
"They're a Sydney first grade side so it showed Group 11 is strong," McDermott said of Maroubra.
Dubbo Macquarie also impressed on the day and made the semi-finals before going down to the eventual champions 18-10.
One of the matches of the day was the clash between rivals Parkes and Forbes, with the stand and hills around the ground packed with fans.
McDermott, and many others in attendance, were delighted to see Wellington win the under 18s.
The young Cowboys defeated Parkes 20-12 in the final, indicating they would be strong this season after some raised concerns about their numbers for 2016.
"It's great for some of the smaller towns and we need Wellington," McDermott said.
"From all reports they've got good numbers and junior league in Wellington is the best it's been.
"They've done a lot of work and it's great to see their numbers in 14s and 16s now coming through.
"Nyngan were also a bit of a surprise packet in the 18s after struggling the last couple of seasons."
McDermott also confirmed he would look to expand the competition in 2017.
Group 10 sides had signaled their intention to play this year but dates did not line up while a full Women's League Tag competition would be held at the Nines next year.
