Aug 4, 2024
Rugby League Jamaica executed Game One of its 2024 Parish of Residence series on Saturday, July 13, at Mona Bowl in Kingston, one week after the passing of Hurricane Beryl. Jamaica’s best available domestic players clashed in U16 (male), U19 (male), Women and Men categories. As per tradition, players were divided into two squads, Reds (representing mostly Kingston) and Blues (representing mostly St Catherine and rural Jamaica).
The annual two-match series which is in its sixth installment, helps to select the best 25 players in the country, who will represent the Hurricanes Rugby League squad for 2024-2025 and serve as a trial for selection to the national team. Game Two is scheduled for Saturday, October 5 at the same venue.
U16s
Reds dominated the affair with a 20-8 win. Try scorers for the winners were Oniel Williams (2), Alex Williamson (2) and Armani Burnette. For the Blues, Aldane Eccleston bagged 2 tries that might help his squad pull off a miracle fight back in game two.
U19s
Many might have favoured the Blues to take first honours in this age group, and it looked ominous when Romario Hull crashed over for them after only three minutes. However,Reds rallied with unreplied tries from Dwayne James, Damar Mackoy and Timmari Johnson. Dean Griffiths added two goals to seal a 16-4 victory.
Women
The women’s game was a highly competitive affair, ending 16-12 in favour of Reds. Try scorers for the winners were Miscka Stewart (2), Sherine Johnson and Shanice Stewart. For the Blues, Candace Wright bagged 2 tries and Brianna Medley kicked two goals.
Men
It was a close contest for most of the game, however, Reds led from start to end, holding their nerve and pulling away in the last 10 minutes to win 24-14. Tries for the Reds were scored by Jenson Morris (3) and Owen Linton. Their goals came from Michael Pearson (2) and Adrian Hall (1).
Speedster Andre Lee scored a brilliant hattrick for the Blues, whilst Ryan Grant kicked their only goal. Reinhardo Richards and Akeem Murray created several chances for them with brilliant solo breaks but botched final passes ruined the opportunities. Blues chances were hurt early on when they lost hooker David Williams to concussion.
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