Stars shine at St. George

A return to Kogarah Oval in the St. George area was the setting for a carnival like atmosphere of approximately 5,000 fans as some of Rugby Leagues former great players and the USA Tomahawks rallied together for a helping hand.

The idea started when old teammates David Niu and Jeff Hardy spoke shortly after the devastating news that a former champions player and fellow teammate lost his wife to Breast Cancer. The two friends both from the St. George area and now on opposite sides of the world worked tirelessly for the past six months to organize the Charity to support "The Joanne Mackay Breast Cancer Foundation" and the great players and local community responded in tremendous fashion to support the idea.

The first quarter was controlled by NRL referee Bill Harrigan. In what was the tightest quarter of the match the Dragons led 12-6 after the first 20 minutes with tries to Scott Gourley and Dragons Premier League coach Michael Potter. Being led by Brad Mackay and halfback Troy Hodges the Dragons side showed some vintage football to gain an early lead.
The USA were given clear instructions to have a bit of fun and make sure the former Dragons all got home in one piece and the usual tactics of size and power would have to wait for another day. Giant USA Prop Fred Gruhler decided that time was short out on a already extended playing career and won the hearts of many the local fans as he ripped through the St George defense on many occasions.

The tries continued in the second quarter with Lord Ted referring the next two quarters. Sporting a France jersey, Ted was at his best with the whistle. Ian "Cook" Herron provided some entertainment on the wing whilst the skill and determination of Jeff Hardy showed that he has lost next to nothing of his skill level.

The match included Australian Boxing sensation and former world class player "The man" Anthony Mundine with his blistering speed and side stepping efforts followed by the famous back flip after scoring a solo effort. Other highlights saw recently retired Australian Kangaroo great Paul McGregor beat four tomahawks defenders and race 50 yards only to be mowed down by Tomahawks fullback Ryan Blake right on the try line in what was the tackle of the match.

Late into the match AMNRL CEO David Niu did his best to sneak on the St George jersey for one last time however the ground announcer was quick to point out the St George Jeff Hardy made a great pass while wearing Niu's USA jersey number 7 and all eyes were quick to find out who the mysterious player was wearing the Red & White.

As the clock wound down the Americans showed their grass roots as Super Dave Divalero cracked the line with a 30 Yards Quarter Back Style forward pass that proved the true spirit of the game was all in good fun.

The Dragons were best served by Mick Potter, Mark Coyne, Paul McGregor, Jeff Hardy and of course Anthony Mundine. While for the Tomahawks Media Mantarays teammates for the Fred Gruhler and Ryan Blake got their players vote.

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