Flamin’ Galahs swoop to historic premiership

The Flamin’ Galahs celebrating with the trophy – front l-r: Kelsey Hutchison, Abigail Phillips, Sarah Chandler, Kayla Beaton, Jess Fleming, Piper Hancock, Ella Wykes, Grace Lummis, and Heidi Ferguson (C). Back: Rowan Chandler, Paige Wilson, Chelsea Broom, Lara Duff, Makaila Harland (VC), Peta Bradley, Alanna Clark, Caitlynn Mills, Ash Carlow, Lucy Irish, and coach Greg King.

Western Plains Rugby Union – Ahrens Cup.

Story and photos: Ian Cole

Gulargambone’s Flamin’ Galahs have soared to their first-ever Western Plains Rugby Ahrens Tri-Tag premiership, producing a stunning 19–7 victory over the heavily favoured Coonamble Rams in a memorable grand final at Nyngan on Saturday.

A breathless, but beaming Galahs captain Heidi Ferguson said her team had to dig deep after halftime to win their first premierships after four previous disappointing grand final appearances

“We’ve been waiting for this for five years, so it’s a very special moment for the team, our coaches and our supporters, and I’m just so proud of the girls and all the effort they’ve put in, and it just feels amazing,” Heidi said.

Galah’ coach Greg King said his team were huge underdogs going into the match, “but our girls stuck to their guns and we finally got there.”

“The rivalry between these two teams is phenomenal – not an inch is given, and nothing was given out there today, but credit to my girls, they were fantastic.

Played in front of a large and enthusiastic crowd, the grand final atmosphere was electric, with the Flamin’ Galahs’ huge travelling supporter base creating a wall of noise from the opening whistle.

The Coonamble Rams entered the match as premiership favourites and made an ideal start with an early converted try to establish a 7–0 lead. It appeared the Rams had settled into the contest exactly as expected, but the Flamin’ Galahs had other ideas.

With their vocal supporters urging them forward, Gulargambone lifted the intensity wrestled back control of the match. The Galahs turned sustained pressure into points, crossing for a crucial first half try to close the gap. At half-time, the Rams held a slender 7–5 advantage.

The second half belonged to the Flamin’ Galahs. Inspired by relentless sideline support, Gulargambone produced a defensive performance that will be remembered for years to come. Wave after wave of Coonamble attack was repelled as the Galahs defended their line with determination and discipline.

The Rams threw everything they had at the try line, but Gulargambone refused to crack. At the other end of the field, the Galahs showed composure and skill when it mattered most. […]

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