Melville High School’s two rugby league sides have advanced to the final eight in NSW after earning victories in their respective matches last Friday.
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The Open’s team defeated Port Hacking High School 22-12 while the Under-14s team defeated Warner’s Bay High School 14-10.
Parents and friends of players attended the matches and provided a boost for the players.
The Under-14s side faced a tough test and defended at a high level to earn the victory.
The nail-biting contest went down to the last play as Warner’s Bay threw everything at Melville but they weren’t able to crack their defence in the final minutes.
The Warner’s Bay side was steered around the park by a Newcastle Knights junior halfback.
Melville’s Under-14s second rower Tyrell King was voted as the player of the match.
In the Open’s match, Melville’s kicking game was of the highest class and they continually forced Port Hacking to work the ball out from the corners.
The side defended well and were lethal in attack.
Halfback Shaydon Close was instrumental in the victory and received man of the match honours.
The two teams advance to the quarterfinals of their respective state competitions with the Open’s side to face the winner of Inverell and Terrigal while the Under-14s face the victor of Chifley College and Balgowlah Boys.
Melville High School principal Victoria Staunton was thrilled with the performances from the sides on and off the field.
“It was such proud moment to see both teams play strongly and come out with such a great victory,” Staunton said.
“I have been told of the strength of the 1980's Melville sides and I am glad to say we are back to those days again.
“The boys were proud representatives of their community and school, both on and off the field.”
The Open’s sides quarterfinal match is expected to be on the road while the Under-14s is likely to be played at Verge St Oval in Kempsey.
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