By Casey OÇonnor
The TRL Hutchinson Builders Round 11 A Grade match between Warwick Cowboys and Highfields looked on paper to be a tough clash and it did not disappoint with the Cowboys going down 28-24 in a high-scoring game.
The Cowboys and Eagles fans brushed aside the cold conditions as an enthralling game unfolded on Saturday night at Father Ranger Oval.
Trailing 24-10, the Cowboys were forced to dig deep and fought back strongly to go down by just four points in the end.
With five tries apiece for both sides, it was the goalkicking of Highfields Josh Fanning that proved the difference.
Cowboys centre Tyrelle Ross continued his outstanding run of form this season and added another double to his tally.
Highfield’s young brigade led the way early in the game.
Josh Quinlan playing in the second row was in everything and a double from him in the first half helped put the visitors in what looked to be a winning position.
The Cowboys, urged on by a big home crowd, surged late in the game but strong defence saw Highfields just hang.
Cowboys Co captain Mick Bloomfield played another inspirational game leading from the front and was awarded two Webcke Price medal points,
Mitch Watson and Cody Byrne got through a mountain of work and were Named Best back and Best forward.
After round 11, the top four sides, Gatton, Highfields, Wattles and Dalby all sit on 17 points. Goondiwindi have leap frogged the Cowboys to sit in fifth.
With the Madsen Rasmussen trophy played this weekend, the Cowboys have the opportunity of a week off to recharge their batteries and launch their campaign in the second half of the season to secure a spot in the finals.
The Cowboys return to Fr Ranger Oval on Sunday 10 July when they play the Pittsworth Danes.
HIGHFIELDS 28 (Josh Quinlan 2, Josh Keoller, Thomas Hatch, Matthew Waites tries; Josh Fanning 4 goals) defeated WARWICK 24 (Tyrelle Ross 2, Harry Sullivan, Sam Broomhall, Michael Bloomfield tries; Bloomfield 2 goals)
The news was better for the Under 19 and Reserve Grade sides. Both teams scored win.
The under 19’s defeated Highfields 40-6 while in Reserve Grade, in a reversal of the A Grade, Warwick defeated Highfields 28-24.
