Masters up the tempo in curtain raiser

It will be a big step up for masters rugby league players today when they play their first curtain raiser match before the Tupapa Panthers take on the Takuvaine Warriors at Victoria Park.

Depending on their game today, there could be other opportunities to play curtain raiser matches to a premier grade in the very near future.

With two games under their belt, the masters are now starting to gel with different players coming together from all clubs to form two teams for the game.

Strict rules are being enforced by the middleman (referee) during the game for the safety of all players and also allowing a good flow of the game.

A good game was had last Friday hosted by the Rutaki Sharks and it was great to see some new players on the field.

A very slick looking OD carved out wide with some slick moves.

Some big runs came from the Doggies Pres but seems to be targeting the Red and Gold shorts. Perhaps a bit colour blind thinking all players are wearing black shorts.

The Australian import, a former league player himself and controlling the country’s finance, had plenty of guts taking it up to the opposition and showcasing a glimpse of his former glory days.

The player of the day went to the Gold Shorts player Papa Pat for his defensive play and again stopping the fastest man on the field!

All players are being encouraged to wear the right coloured shorts on the field (40+ black, 50+ red, 60+ gold) to make it easier for the middleman to control the game and also for the safety of all players.

However, there are still some akari players turning up with other coloured shorts like blue, green, pink – now this is a real concern. Be advised the middleman will be enforcing this rule so wear proper coloured shorts or no game.

Today’s game kicks off at 4.15pm sharp so please be there on time as the premier reserves game kicks off 5pm.