Close local derby
CENTRE Michael O'Keefe scored two tries and landed five goals in the Warwick Cowboys' 34-26 victory against Wattles at Father Ranger Oval on Saturday night.
Wattles scored two tries in the first 10 minutes to lead 10-0 after Warwick conceded two penalties.
Warwick fought back to take a 22-14 lead into half-time.
Coach Gary Lawrence said Hayden McNicol was the best Cowboys forward and Garry Ellery the best in the pack.
"Garry returned to great form after being ill for the past couple of weeks," Lawrence said.
"Michael O'Keefe had his best game in attack this year.
"Wattles were solid across the park with five-eighth Burwood Robinson and hooker Josh McIntosh the best."
Warwick scored six tries to five.
Wattles co-coach Glen McMillan said it would have been nice to record the win.
"Our attitude was better and there was an improvement in our determination to stick to a game plan," McMillan said.
"Craig Pettiford had his first run in A-grade and did his job in the front row. No one played a bad game but lapses in defence proved costly.
"Warwick has a physical forward pack. The side has the ability to make the top five. They have a good ball player in Trent Achilles and fullback Hayden McNicol played really well."
McMillan rated second rower Aaron Scheid and Robinson as his best.
Warwick is scheduled to play Gatton at Gatton on Saturday but the Cowboys have requested the game be moved to Sunday as Warwick had six players in the Toowoomba side which was playing in Brisbane on Saturday.
Wattles host Goondiwindi on Saturday.
