I think some good tips overall. I personally would like to see gregs get up. I do believe that kinross vs barker could go either way but definitley very close like you said. The same with Auggies vs Joeys which will be intresting after Auggies Sanix tournament.
ISA 2024
- Thread starter Choptackle
- Start date
DaSchmooze
Jim Clark (26)
Cuz
Herbert Moran (7)
Greg's games called off due to the wet weather
DaSchmooze
Jim Clark (26)
Interesting they've decided to start Taite Howells, he definitely made a difference when he came on against Shore but Farrell hasn't put a foot wrong in the past few games. Also surprised they've dropped Jack Taylor Hannify, he'll be back on the wing shortly. Not at all surprised about Bloomfield he will be a regular starter in 1sts this year.
PASS MASTER
Frank Row (1)
Howells has a more expansive game than Farrell. Farrells kicking game is not where Howells is . There service is very good between the two of them. However there games are very different. Howells has done enough to win the start . Howells has put in good games for seconds then backed up and played well in Firsts.
Taylor Hannify did not play his best game under the high ball last saturday. Gioello and Bloomfield both contributed and made a difference when they got a chance on the field.
Its all about making the most of the chance you get. All players should be on notice and realise they can be replaced.
RahRahRugby
Sydney Middleton (9)
Way too Early ISA Rankings:
St. Augustines:
It would be inconceivable to overlook the reigning champions as the prime contenders for the premiership title. With star talent spread across the field, and an exceptional leader in Joe Walsh, arguably the most promising young player in the country, they are a formidable force.
Their preseason preparations have been strong, with challenging matches against some of the world's elite teams at the SANIX Tournament. This rigorous preparation has undoubtedly allowed them to refine key positional combinations, setting them up for immediate success in the upcoming trials and the ISA season.
The forward pack is both powerful and technically adept, while the backline boasts explosive speed and flair, with a player at every position from 9 to 15 capable of game-changing performances.
The question on everyone's mind is whether they will remain unbeaten throughout the ISA season. With such a potent mix of talent and preparation, it will take an almighty effort to halt their dominance.
Oakhill:
Oakhill will undoubtedly be on a mission for redemption this year after virtually gifting the Premiership to Augustines on their turf during their own Gala Day last year. The lingering disappointment was palpable throughout the school in the weeks that followed, and it's that sense of unfinished business that is likely to motivate these young men from Castle Hill to rise above recent history.
The team boasts depth across the cohort, providing a safety net in the event of injuries. However, their success this season will depend heavily on their ability to shake off those sluggish starts we've observed in the early trials, but also be able to be resilient and muscle up when things are bound to not go their way in a long ISA season.
With this in mind, expect a focused and formidable Oakhill team as they enter the ISA season, driven by determination and the desire to correct last year's missteps.
St Patricks:
Mitch Woods and Alex Conti.
It might seem unfair to the rest of the team, but Pats' Premiership aspirations ultimately hinge on these two players. Their partnership, honed in the SG Ball competition with the Bulldogs, should be sharp and seamless as they approach the ISA season.
Last year, Pats were just one upset away from clinching the title. This year, their hopes of winning it all rest on the forward pack establishing a solid platform, giving Woods and Conti the space and opportunity to work their magic.
If the entire team plays their roles and Mitch Woods and Alex Conti step up during crucial matches against the top contenders, there's no reason the Premiership can't make its way back to Strathfield.
Ultimately, success will depend on teamwork and the ability of these two stars to shine when the stakes are highest.
St Pius:
St. Pius might just deserve the label "Favourites"—a true wildcard, where we can't quite predict what we'll get from them - just like the Chocolate box.
Although the team sheets lack big names, that might actually work to their advantage, a true underdog story this could be. What seemed like a surprising win against Cranbrook could be a sign that this team has found its stride come 2024. This impression is bolstered by their dominant performance against Aloys, where they scored an impressive 57 points, suggesting a team capable of high-octane offensive output.
Following a lacklustre season last year, the boys from Chatswood might just be the ones to shake up the entire competition with an upset victory against one of the top dawgs. If they can maintain this level of intensity, St. Pius could become a team to watch, capable of turning the tides in the ISA season.
St Stanislaus’:
The lads from Bathurst—ISA's tough customers.
They're known for their grit and tenacity, though they often lack the finesse and flashiness of the top-tier programs. However, they're never short on spirit and are always up for a battle, refusing to yield even against the best in the competition.
Their passion is undeniable, making them formidable opponents, especially on their home turf. Any team that makes the long bus trip to Bathurst knows they're in for a relentless fight, regardless of their standing.
It's that fighting spirit that makes them a challenging draw in any match, no matter the odds.
Kinross:
An impressive start to the season with a solid win in their opening trial against The Armidale School. Two standout aspects emerged from this match:
St. Gregs:
Details on Gregs this year are sparse. A 19-5 win over Shore's 3rds isn't particularly encouraging, suggesting that the rugby program at this predominantly league-focused school might not be as robust as others in the ISA. The victory margin doesn't instil much confidence about their prospects against stronger teams.
However, there's still hope that Gregs can bring the fight each week, pushing teams to their limits. If they can consistently show up with grit and determination, we might be in for some cracker games. The key will be for them to harness their energy and focus, proving that they can be more than just a footnote this ISA season.
St. Augustines:
It would be inconceivable to overlook the reigning champions as the prime contenders for the premiership title. With star talent spread across the field, and an exceptional leader in Joe Walsh, arguably the most promising young player in the country, they are a formidable force.
Their preseason preparations have been strong, with challenging matches against some of the world's elite teams at the SANIX Tournament. This rigorous preparation has undoubtedly allowed them to refine key positional combinations, setting them up for immediate success in the upcoming trials and the ISA season.
The forward pack is both powerful and technically adept, while the backline boasts explosive speed and flair, with a player at every position from 9 to 15 capable of game-changing performances.
The question on everyone's mind is whether they will remain unbeaten throughout the ISA season. With such a potent mix of talent and preparation, it will take an almighty effort to halt their dominance.
Oakhill:
Oakhill will undoubtedly be on a mission for redemption this year after virtually gifting the Premiership to Augustines on their turf during their own Gala Day last year. The lingering disappointment was palpable throughout the school in the weeks that followed, and it's that sense of unfinished business that is likely to motivate these young men from Castle Hill to rise above recent history.
The team boasts depth across the cohort, providing a safety net in the event of injuries. However, their success this season will depend heavily on their ability to shake off those sluggish starts we've observed in the early trials, but also be able to be resilient and muscle up when things are bound to not go their way in a long ISA season.
With this in mind, expect a focused and formidable Oakhill team as they enter the ISA season, driven by determination and the desire to correct last year's missteps.
St Patricks:
Mitch Woods and Alex Conti.
It might seem unfair to the rest of the team, but Pats' Premiership aspirations ultimately hinge on these two players. Their partnership, honed in the SG Ball competition with the Bulldogs, should be sharp and seamless as they approach the ISA season.
Last year, Pats were just one upset away from clinching the title. This year, their hopes of winning it all rest on the forward pack establishing a solid platform, giving Woods and Conti the space and opportunity to work their magic.
If the entire team plays their roles and Mitch Woods and Alex Conti step up during crucial matches against the top contenders, there's no reason the Premiership can't make its way back to Strathfield.
Ultimately, success will depend on teamwork and the ability of these two stars to shine when the stakes are highest.
St Pius:
St. Pius might just deserve the label "Favourites"—a true wildcard, where we can't quite predict what we'll get from them - just like the Chocolate box.
Although the team sheets lack big names, that might actually work to their advantage, a true underdog story this could be. What seemed like a surprising win against Cranbrook could be a sign that this team has found its stride come 2024. This impression is bolstered by their dominant performance against Aloys, where they scored an impressive 57 points, suggesting a team capable of high-octane offensive output.
Following a lacklustre season last year, the boys from Chatswood might just be the ones to shake up the entire competition with an upset victory against one of the top dawgs. If they can maintain this level of intensity, St. Pius could become a team to watch, capable of turning the tides in the ISA season.
St Stanislaus’:
The lads from Bathurst—ISA's tough customers.
They're known for their grit and tenacity, though they often lack the finesse and flashiness of the top-tier programs. However, they're never short on spirit and are always up for a battle, refusing to yield even against the best in the competition.
Their passion is undeniable, making them formidable opponents, especially on their home turf. Any team that makes the long bus trip to Bathurst knows they're in for a relentless fight, regardless of their standing.
It's that fighting spirit that makes them a challenging draw in any match, no matter the odds.
Kinross:
An impressive start to the season with a solid win in their opening trial against The Armidale School. Two standout aspects emerged from this match:
- Offensive Prowess: Scoring 51 points demonstrates a potent attacking capability, suggesting they have the firepower to put pressure on the top three teams and test their defensive lines. Their ability to cross the try line with such consistency indicates that they can bring high energy and creativity to the field.
- Sturdy Defence: Shutting out the opposition and conceding zero points is no small feat in rugby. This level of defensive discipline indicates that these boys from Orange are not just about scoring; they're prepared to defend their territory with equal tenacity. It's a clear signal to other teams that they won't find easy opportunities against this squad.
St. Gregs:
Details on Gregs this year are sparse. A 19-5 win over Shore's 3rds isn't particularly encouraging, suggesting that the rugby program at this predominantly league-focused school might not be as robust as others in the ISA. The victory margin doesn't instil much confidence about their prospects against stronger teams.
However, there's still hope that Gregs can bring the fight each week, pushing teams to their limits. If they can consistently show up with grit and determination, we might be in for some cracker games. The key will be for them to harness their energy and focus, proving that they can be more than just a footnote this ISA season.
Last edited:
Amazing take and brilliant report
The Running Game
Peter Burge (5)
Solid overview, well done. Don't get the opp to watch many schoolboy games these days, as kiddos playing SS, however, believe Kinross may be the sleeper this season. Their S&C program has significantly improved, while the entire rugby program under MT has moved next level. Wish all teams well for '24 ISA competition.
DaSchmooze
Jim Clark (26)
Yeah this took a lot of work - fair and balanced too. I'm going to hold off on making my predictions for now but if you asked to make a call, I think I'd only have 2 of your 6 picks in their current position
loudnproudscotsdaddy
Banned
RahRahRugby
Sydney Middleton (9)
Not a ladder prediction, just put it into categories as it's too early for ladder predictions.Yeah this took a lot of work - fair and balanced too. I'm going to hold off on making my predictions for now but if you asked to make a call, I think I'd only have 2 of your 6 picks in their current position
Where's the highly coveted Jack Parkinson?
B&M 7th XV scout team
Frank Row (1)
We have just signed him on a seasonal contract.
runningrugbyrules
Fred Wood (13)
Oakhill 1st XV 14-12 Joeys 2nd XV
RahRahRugby
Sydney Middleton (9)
Oakhill 1st XV 14 - 12 St Joseph’s 2nd XV
Today, the skies unleashed their torrents in a dramatic and rain-soaked spectacle. It's almost unbelievable, but Oakhill's struggle with starts persists, with yet another close-range try by the Joeys forwards slipping through in the opening 5 minutes.
Games like this are always a contest and it was clear that the Joeys boys were out to prove a point from the onset. Although, similarly to all previous games, Oakhill was able to establish some dominance through their forwards laying the platform for the backs. Through this Oakhills No. 12 was able to seamlessly break the line and go over under the sticks giving Oakhill the 7-5 lead. Without being completely dominant Oakhill did have the upper edge, which again saw the forwards dominating seeing Oakhill’s No. 2 break the line and offload to the powerhouse Italian Stallion who went over for his first try for the first XV.
HT: Oakhill 14-7Joeys
From Halftime on the game grew into a contest driven by grit, passion and determination. Multiple times Oakhill players went down with injuries yet carried on playing. Although in saying this the second half was played at Oakhill’s end, the only reason stopping Joeys from scoring was there lack of finesse and set piece execution. Although with 5 minutes to spare, Joeys was able to crash over through cohesive play between backs and forwards, moving the score to 14-12. From then on time was Joeys worst enemy, with the ref calling game on a great contest.
For Oakhill, this win wasn’t a clear display of dominance, and at times, they appeared to lack attacking flair. Looking ahead to their Gala Day clash against Knox in two weeks, it will be interesting to observe how they can enhance their performances and start to build momentum again.
Some Oakhill Standouts:
- No. 2 Luke Muriti
- No. 13 Mitch Holmes
- No. 12 Joe Harvey
- No. 8 Sam Polley
Today, the skies unleashed their torrents in a dramatic and rain-soaked spectacle. It's almost unbelievable, but Oakhill's struggle with starts persists, with yet another close-range try by the Joeys forwards slipping through in the opening 5 minutes.
Games like this are always a contest and it was clear that the Joeys boys were out to prove a point from the onset. Although, similarly to all previous games, Oakhill was able to establish some dominance through their forwards laying the platform for the backs. Through this Oakhills No. 12 was able to seamlessly break the line and go over under the sticks giving Oakhill the 7-5 lead. Without being completely dominant Oakhill did have the upper edge, which again saw the forwards dominating seeing Oakhill’s No. 2 break the line and offload to the powerhouse Italian Stallion who went over for his first try for the first XV.
HT: Oakhill 14-7Joeys
From Halftime on the game grew into a contest driven by grit, passion and determination. Multiple times Oakhill players went down with injuries yet carried on playing. Although in saying this the second half was played at Oakhill’s end, the only reason stopping Joeys from scoring was there lack of finesse and set piece execution. Although with 5 minutes to spare, Joeys was able to crash over through cohesive play between backs and forwards, moving the score to 14-12. From then on time was Joeys worst enemy, with the ref calling game on a great contest.
For Oakhill, this win wasn’t a clear display of dominance, and at times, they appeared to lack attacking flair. Looking ahead to their Gala Day clash against Knox in two weeks, it will be interesting to observe how they can enhance their performances and start to build momentum again.
Some Oakhill Standouts:
- No. 2 Luke Muriti
- No. 13 Mitch Holmes
- No. 12 Joe Harvey
- No. 8 Sam Polley
Last edited:
runningrugbyrules
Fred Wood (13)
Auggies 31-26 Joeys
Rugbyfanatic
Bob McCowan (2)
Pius 29- trinity 5
DaSchmooze
Jim Clark (26)
This is starting to look like a trend to me!
Choptackle
Chris McKivat (8)
Auggies have just shocked the schoolboy rugby world with a huge win over Joeys at joeys 31-26, they have silenced a multitude of critics with this win. They will be the benchmark this year in the ISA.