Thirroul muscle up

ILLAWARRA RUGBY LEAGUE

STEVE FINN

THIRROUL Butchers are preparing for a massive Illawarra Carlton League clash with Wests after big back-to-back wins during the week.

On Thursday, Thirroul faced competition leaders Dapto in near-freezing conditions. Despite the weather both sides were prepared to play entertaining football.

From the kick off it was obvious that coach Phil Ostwald had set up a defensive pattern that was intended to frustrate Dapto.

No matter where Dapto went Thirroul had players who were totally committed to denying the Canaries even the slightest sniff of victory.

In one the most tightly contested games this season, Thirroul took the game to the Canaries and ran in 16 unanswered points before half time.

In the second half, Thirroul continued with its defensive blitz and even though Dapto managed to cross the line, sheer determination saw the Butchers win 20-8.

Ryan Borg, Todd Hayes, Blake Dunn and The Wombat all scored tries while Borg potted two goals.

Saturday saw the northern derby with Thirroul hosting Helensburgh at Gibson Park. The Butchers were determined to keep their impressive winning streak alive and produced the goods, winning 36-6.

Thirroul went into the game under strength but the replacement players stepped up to the mark.

This was another game where Thirroul's defence dominated, creating a platform for the attack.

Blake Dunn notched a double for Thirroul, while Ryan Borg, Scott Borg, Ben Linde, Joel Ruskin and Ty McCarthy found the line.