Warwick High set to step up
JOEL Bradfield and Brody Whitney were the best as Warwick State High School qualified for the next stage of Darling Downs open rugby league footy with a 20-10 victory against St Joseph's, Toowoomba, yesterday.
Classy lock Alex Ragnaria scored the first try of the game for St Joseph's to put the visitors up 4-0 before winger Josh Ryan scored in the corner for Warwick High to level the scores.
St Joseph's scored a converted try late in the first half, but five-eighth Callum Miller burrowed over from 10m to score. Jesse McDougall converted for a 10-all scoreline at halftime.
Warwick High coach Rob Stewart said the strong defence of his team late in the first half secured the win.
"Fullback Matty Gilchrist saved two tries with strong defence," Stewart said.
"Jacob Hoffman put his hand up in defence and was part of a drive to push the biggest St Joseph's forward 10 metres towards the sideline."
In the second half, McDougall and Bradfield crossed for tries and McDougall landed one conversion.
While the draw for next week's games has not been finalised, it is expected Warwick High will play Toowoomba High at Glenholme Park on Wednesday.
St Joseph's coach Scott Edwards rated Bradfield and Whitney the best for Warwick.
"Warwick High showed the character yesterday, which means they could beat Toowoomba High," Edwards said.
"We conceded four tries in the first half against Toowoomba High, but they didn't respond to pressure too well in the second half," Edwards said.
