After tough games in the first grade and reserve grade competitions, the club is aiming for wins on the weekend.

The Mittagong first grade side had a 22-16 loss against the Picton Magpies at Victoria Park on Sunday, April 15.

First grade coach Dan Beardshaw said while there were several factors that let the team down, there were some positives to take away from the game.

“We wanted the boys to start the game with more intensity, of which they delivered. Our forward pack really dominated theirs, containing them in their half for the majority of the first period, laying a really good platform to attack from,” Beardshaw said.

“In the first half, we held the advantage in field position and completion rates, but our lack of cohesion and execution of our attack let us down.

“We aim to play a clinical, effective style of attack - if done correctly, we can take a better grip of games and really apply pressure on the opposition.” Beardshaw said the team was determined to improve for round three.

“If we take another couple of steps forward again, we’ll be happy we are going in the right direction,” he said.

“We are definitely looking to dominate them in the middle, allowing our halves and outside backs some opportunities to show their skill and talents.” 

The reserve grade side took on Picton and had a tough 28-10 loss.

The Mittagong Lions went into the game with a full squad with two boys, Ian Kwok and Tevita Loko, making their club debut.

The team started very well with aggressive football from the start. Forwards Simon Reid and Ian Kwok gave Mittagong the advantage in the early stages.

Experienced halves Jesse Bond and Ben Murchie guided the team around the park, and showed Mittagong the team was ready to play from the get-go.

Mittagong’s forward pack matched the big Picton forwards for the first half, in what was starting to become a big arm wrestle in the middle.

Just on half-time a brawl erupted between the teams, with the game being so close and everyone on edge.

The referee dismissing one of the Lions for throwing a punch in melee.

Mittagong were going into the break-up 10-6 but with a man down.

The team spoke about discipline at half-time and the importance of sticking to its game plan. This included holding the ball, keeping shape and working harder in the line with an extra man down.

The game plan didn’t go to plan with another player being sent in the sin bin for decent not long after, bringing Mittagong down to 11 men.

Mittagong’s defence started to show signs of stress and fatigue playing with 11 men.

Players who stood out on the field included Simon Reid, Geoff Mckeown, Ben Powell, Ian Kwok and Jordan Powell.

This week there will be a grand final replay against a determined Camden.

Round three games will be held at Mittagong Sportsground on Saturday, April 22.

The ladies league tag team will play from 10.30am, and the under 18s will play from 11.30am.

Meanwhile reserve grade will take to the field from 1pm, and first grade will play from 2.30pm.