Golden point victory seals back-to-back titles for Fremantle Roosters in Great Southern Nines Tournament

Fremantle Roosters have made their mark on the Great Southern Nines Tournament, winning back-to-back titles in Saturday night’s final against Western Fijians Rugby League. Five teams competed in the second instalment of the tournament but no one was able to stop the brute strength and power of Fremantle. Albany Sea Dragons took to the field against Mandurah Storm Rugby League Club, Fremantle Roosters Rugby League Club, Serpentine Jarrahdale Rugby League and Sporting Club, and Western Fijians Rugby League. NRL WA helped the Sea Dragons host the popular tournament, which was played in strong spirits. There were 10 games played across the day, with every team playing four games before the top two sides squared off in the grand final. Fremantle won three of their four qualifying games and took on Western Fijians for the title. After defeating Albany in the inaugural tournament last year, Fremantle defeated Albany in the inaugural tournament last year and got across the line this year in a thrilling grand final. Scores were locked at 12-all at the end of full-time, sending the decider to go to golden point, where another half is played until whatever team scores first. Midway through the extra time, Fremantle intercepted the ball and scored to secure a 16-12 victory. Fremantle won their first game 20-14 over Serpentine before going down to Western Fijians 10-8 but then responded with a 26-10 win over Mandurah and a 22-14 triumph over Albany heading into the grand final. Western Fijians went through the qualifying games undefeated, including beating the eventual champions, while they also won 22-0 over Albany, downed Serpentine 20-0 and beat Mandurah 24-10. Mandurah finished third with two wins over Albany Sea Dragons (16-8) and Serpentine (30-0). Albany won their sole game against Serpentine 24-10, while Serpentine went through the tournament winless. Sea Dragons president Gary Tutt said next year’s tournament would be in a different timeslot. “It was a fantastic effort from all the travelling teams to support our event again in 2021,” he said. “Seeing the Western Fijians come to our event was exciting for the club and the comp. “The Sea Dragons played well and now the focus is on next year’s event. “Working with NRL WA and with the support of all the NRLWA teams, we have moved Great Southern Nines to March as a precursor to their fixtures season and make it a pre-season event. “Congratulations to the Fremantle Roosters and well done on going back-to-back and we look forward to seeing who can stop the three-peat attempt in 2022.” The tournament also feature a junior tag and tackle game, along with a women’s league tag exhibition match. Tutt said the tournament attracted about 200-300 players and spectators.