Hopwood defeat Aussies

Hopwood Hall College Rugby League Academy in action

Hopwood Hall College Rugby League Academy got their season underway with an impressive victory over Australian Touring Team Milton State High School at the Mayfield Sports Centre on Saturday (17 September).

The game was a close affair and finished Hopwood Hall 18 Milton State 16. A brace of tries from Ryan Bradbury supplemented a try from college veteran Danny Moran.

All tries were successfully converted by Kieron Harmer to give the green and golds from Rochdale a narrow victory.

It was the first run out for the team, who have been put through a tough pre season by Head Coach Matt Calland.

Calland said: "Any Aussie team you play against are going to give you a game and we were certainly in a game today. We fielded a few newcomers today and they went well, so all is looking good for the season."

Milton State are coached by ex Rochdale Mayfield player Jannan Billings and hail from Queensland. They have a strong Rugby League pedigree and a history of producing players for the professional game.

Hopwood Hall will look to continue their winning start to the season when they take part in the traditional season opener, the SRL 9's, taking place in St Helens this Wednesday (21st September).